F.A.Q

• What to expect during your first therapy session?

  The very first session is different from any other session because we have to get a lot of information and paperwork from you. We discuss things like confidentiality, duty to warn, and your therapist’s therapeutic approach while collecting some background information from you.

  This first session is more like an in-depth consultation, where we go into more detail about why you decided to seek therapy. This is also the beginning of building rapport with your therapist. You will also discuss your goals for therapy, and you can ask any questions you may have about the therapy process.

  Make sure to sign into the client portal and complete the paperwork.

• Is everything we discuss confidental?

  All sessions are private and confidential, with the exception that you are a danger to yourself or others or if there’s any sign of child or elder abuse. You will receive our confidentiality agreement to sign before your session.

• What is the difference between a Therapist, Psychologist, Counselor,
  Life Coach, and a Psychiatrist?

  You may have noticed that some of our therapists have different credentials. All credentials allow them to practice psychotherapy in the state of New York and differ in years of experience and training requirements from the state. Mental Health Counselors (LMHCs), clinical social workers (LCSWs), and Marriage and Family therapists (LMFTs) all hold master-level degrees and provide psychotherapy for a range of issues. A psychologist has a doctorate in psychology or philosophy and can provide psychotherapy. Psychiatrists, unlike any other providers, have a medical degree and can prescribe medication.

• Do you except insurance?

  Yes. We accept most insurance. Before your appointment is scheduled we verify your insurance benefits so you are aware of your financial responsibility.

  A list of Insurance plans we’re networked with is listed above.

• What is the difference between a deductible and co-pay?

  A co-pay is a fixed amount paid by the patient based on their insurance plan. The insurance company will pick up the rest of the cost. Your insurance company determines this amount.

  A deductible is a fixed amount a patient pays each year before their health insurance kicks in fully.

  If you have a deductible, you will be responsible for the cost of the session until your deductible is met.

   

• What if I don't have insurance? Do you have a sliding scale?

  A sliding scale is when a therapist offers to reduce the cost of sessions for a client who has a financial need to help make therapy more affordable. Many therapists offer a sliding scale and may structure it in different ways. We offer only a certain number of clients at various reduced rates of $75 a session when clients cannot afford the full fee.

  If you would like to begin therapy with Lighthouse but cannot afford to pay the regular rate, please contact us and ask about the sliding scale.

• How long are the sessions?

  Because of the information gathering, your first sessions may be a little longer, 50-90 minutes. Afterward, sessions are 45-50 minutes long.

• What if you want to cancel?

  It is imperative that you cancel your session as soon as you know you can’t make it. We are a private practice, so we schedule around our clients’ availability. Late cancellations do not give the therapist time to adjust their schedules. Therefore, we ask that you be courteous and inform your therapist right away. There’s a 24-hour cancellation policy and a $35 charge for late cancellations.

  You can cancel your appointment with your therapist or by using the number or email on the site.

• What form of payment do you accept?

  All major credit cards and cash. Payment is due at the time of your appointment.

• What does out-of-network mean?

  Your insurance company will typically reimburse you directly after you’ve met your deductible. We provide courtesy billing, where we submit claims to your insurance company on your behalf. Being out-of-network provides you with more privacy and confidentiality, while in-network providers are required to share more information, such as session notes, with insurance companies.