Question 1

DO YOU SEE CLIENTS IN PERSON?

Accepted Answer

No, at this time my practice is completely virtual.

Question 2

WHY DON'T YOU WORK WITH INSURANCE? WHAT ABOUT SUPERBILLS?

Accepted Answer

I do not directly bill insurance. I can provide you with a superbill for you to send into your insurance company to request reimbursement.  *I cannot guarantee your insurance company will reimburse you for services    Mental health services should be available to everyone and I understand that many people are only able to do so by utilizing their health insurance. However, the medical model that insurance companies use is in many ways pathologizing, oppressive and controlling. I do not work with insurance companies because we lose control over your treatment- they dictate what diagnoses will be covered, what type of therapy you need and how much you receive. Additionally, working with insurance means they have full access to my treatment notes regarding your care, including your diagnosis, all of which will become a part of your health record. By not working with insurance you and I can collaborate to create a totally individualized treatment plan that will remain fully confidential*.   *Exceptions to confidentiality include imminent risk of serious harm to self or others, child & elder abuse, and a court order.

Question 3

HOW LONG DOES THERAPY LAST?

Accepted Answer

Some people are in therapy for 3 months, others for 10 years. The length of your therapy totally depends on what you are looking for! If you are looking for support for a specific issue such as a break-up or help making a decision, short term therapy lasting some months may be right for you. If you need help developing self-esteem, healing old wounds and changing beliefs, or just long-term consistent support, longer term therapy may be a better fit for you. Either way, you will be in charge of how long you are in therapy. We will check in regarding your goals regularly so you can decide if you would like to continue in therapy or move on.

Question 4

I'M A MINOR, DO YOU TELL MY PARENTS WHAT WE TALK ABOUT?

Accepted Answer

The short answer is 'No,' but keep reading. Even though you are under 18, what you share in session is still bound by confidentiality laws. However, as a minor, there are some exceptions that you should know:  - If you disclose that you (or another minor you know) are being physically, emotionally or sexually abused I am required by law to report that to the appropriate agencies. This includes abuse from adults OR peers (yes, if you tell me a peer has sent your nudes without your permission, I am legally required to make a report).  - If you are in imminent danger of killing yourself or seriously harming someone else.  Some of the time parents want to know if progress is being made in therapy, what is going on, etc. I will always check in with you PRIOR to having any discussions with your parents and will be completely transparent about what we will talk about, and you get to make decisions about what I can and cannot share with your parents (with the exceptions of safety measures outlined above).

Question 5

HOW DO YOU DO EMDR OVER VIDEO?

Accepted Answer

EMDR over video is not for everyone, however the onset of COVID-19 taught us that EMDR can be successful when done over video in many instances. I guide you in self-tapping or use an online program for eye movement guidance.   If you are interested in seeing if you are a candidate reach out to me for a free consultation.

MEREDITH BERGER, LMFT

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