Frequently Asked Questions

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We collected our answers to the most asked questions and put them in one location for your convenience. If you do not see your questions here, please click here to contact Emily Austein.

1. Do you accept my insurance?

Emily Austein Psychotherapy does not contract with any insurance companies. Services are provided on a private pay basis, and therefore, we are considered “out of network.” Most health insurance plans provide some form of coverage for outpatient psychotherapy.

Out-of-network benefits cover psychotherapy with the professional you choose. Most plans require the patient to pay a deductible, and then reimburse a certain percentage of the fee after that, typically 75 or 80%. 

It is very important that you find out exactly what mental health services your insurance policy covers. Even if you submit the claims yourself, you may not be reimbursed for services. Emily Austein, LCSW will also help assist you through this process once treatment has begun.

 In addition, once an appointment has been scheduled, you will be expected to pay for the time allotted unless you provide 24 hours advance notice of cancellation.

 

2. What are the benefits to obtaining therapy out-of-network?

Although obtaining psychotherapy on an out-of-network basis may seem more expensive, there are many benefits. Insurance companies require regular treatment plans to be submitted by their network providers in order to continue to authorize sessions, which can further compromising confidentiality. 

3. HOW CAN I TRY TO GET MY INSURANCE COMPANY TO REIMBURSE ME FOR MY THERAPY?

Call your insurance company and tell them you would like to go out of network for behavioral health. Some questions to ask your insurance provider:

  1. What is your current yearly deductible?

  2. How much of this deductible has currently been met?

  3. What is the reimbursement rate for an out of network provider (once your deductible has been met)?

  4. How do I to submit reimbursement?

  5. Are there are any limitations of amount of sessions or amount paid out?

  6. What are my mental health benefits?

  7. What is the coverage amount per therapy session?

  8. How many therapy sessions does my plan cover?

  9. Is pre-approval required from my primary care physician?

4. What should I do if it's an emergency situation?

In case of emergencies : This is an out patient service office. The office is not open or available on a 7 day/24 hour basis for crisis calls. In the event of an emergency, call 911, your local police or go to the hospital emergency room. In Bergen County dial 201-262-4347 (HELP) CarePlus, or contact Bergen Regional Hospital.

 

5. What can I expect out of my first session?

During your first session Ms. Austein will empathetically find out about the reasons you are beginning treatment, and begin to tailor a treatment plan individually for you. This talk therapy will be highly supportive, in a judgment free atmosphere.  We find it is helpful for people to write down the topics they would like to discuss prior to their session. 


6. How long do the sessions last?

Each session is 45 minutes, and patients are generally seen on a weekly basis.

7. What will happen when I go to see a psychotherapist?

During your first visit I will speak to you about the reason(s) you are seeking help. I will also get background information from you, and together we will develop an individual treatment plan to help achieve your mental health goals, and improve your overall wellbeing.

8. How exactly does therapy work?

Psychotherapy is built upon a unique relationship you form with your therapist. Throughout talk therapy the patient will discuss different issues, while the therapist listens in a way that’s empathetic and nonjudgmental. Each person’s therapy is their own individual experience, and is tailored to suit their needs.


9. Who goes to see a psychotherapist?

I feel everyone can benefit from psychotherapy. I see people of all ages, and from all different walks of life. Some reasons you might want to begin therapy include; issues with relationships, issues at work, feeling emotions in a way that is distressing to you, any medically unexplained chronic aches and pains, past trauma, wanting to feel happier, or just wanting to improve your emotional health. 

10. How long does therapy take?

This is different for every person. Some people go for a short amount of time while others prefer longterm treatment.

Have a Question?

Don't hesitate to contact us.