FAQ
Q: Are sessions offered virtually or in-person?
A: Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, sessions are offered via HIPAA-secure video platform. Virtual sessions help to limit travel and risk acquiring/sprading infection during this time. We use simple technology to make connecting with your therapist as stress free as possible. You can use your smartphone, tablet, or computer. Phone sessions are also available if needed.
When office visits are deemed safe, sessions will be available in-person in our NYC location or virtually.
Q: What’s the difference between psychotherapy and coaching?
A: The differences between coaching and psychotherapy is a hotly contested issue. In fact, many modalities are used in both coaching and psychotherapy (i.e. goal setting, mindfulness, behavioral activation, developing self-care or time management skills, etc.) There are, however, a few interventions that are unique to psychotherapy (i.e. EMDR, DBT, CBT, etc.) For our purposes (and for legal reasons!) here’s how I define it: Every intervention and modality that isn’t strictly defined as psychotherapy by the APA & NASW, can be considered coaching. To learn more about the differences between therapy and coaching, check out this post on Zencare.
Q: Do you accept insurance?
A: Amita is an OON provider. If you’d like to use out-of-network benefits provided by your insurer, we will work with you to file claims for reimbursement. Depending on your plan, you may have a deductible to be met prior to your insurance covering the cost of sessions. Please note that OON benefits can be applied to therapy, but not coaching services. Fees for sessions will be charged at the time of service.
To find out more information about your out-of-network coverage, please contact your insurance company.
Q: What if I don’t want to use insurance, I don’t have out-of-network benefits, or my deductible is too high?
A: We get it, there are many reasons you may wish to pay privately, including:
Out-of-Network benefits are not included in your plan.
You’d like therapy/coaching, but do not have clinical reasons for seeking services at this time. In other words, your symptoms don’t meet the criteria for a DSM-5 diagnosis, but you’d benefit from support. (One day our healthcare system will catch up *fingers crossed*)
You want an added layer of confidentiality
Your deductible is absurdly high (been there!)
Q: Do you offer a sliding scale?
A: Access to mental healthcare is a right, not a privilege. Systemic barriers should never prevent us from accessing the quality care we deserve. Amita devotes 30% of her practice to sliding scale clients. She will do her best to accommodate your financial needs. To see if you qualify for the sliding scale or to inquire about a payment plan, contact Amita.
Q: What forms of payment do you accept?
A: Amita accepts all major credit cards, check, and HSA/FSA spending accounts. Cash is limited to in-person sessions only.
Q: What is your cancellation policy?
A: Life happens! In the event that you need to cancel or reschedule, 24-hour notice is required. If less than 24 hours notice is given, you will be charged the full session rate.