COUNSELING FEES & PAYMENT CONSIDERATIONS

  • The initial session generally last 50 minutes. During the initial session, we will formally meet each other and review the paperwork, counseling process, and develop a treatment plan. If you are seeking counseling services for a minor child, depending on their age (and/or development) they may or may not need to be present for the initial session. To ensure adequate preparation time, all documents must be submitted at least 2 full business days (48 hours) prior to your scheduled appointment.

  • After your initial counseling session, all sessions will be approximately 45-50 minutes unless more time is agreed upon in advance. During your time, we will work collaboratively to meet the goals established in your treatment plan. Should something more pressing arise, we can modify your treatment plan accordingly.

  • When a counselor participates in legal or court proceedings it forces them to cancel/reschedule sessions with other clients. In accordance with the Texas Family Code and Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors, the counselor will not make recommendations in divorce or child custody hearings. The counselor will not testify in court or release counseling notes or other documents on your behalf unless required to do so by a valid court subpoena in which the counselor, if possible, will take steps to gain your consent. If the counselor is required to consult with lawyers, respond to subpoenas, travel, or appear in court, the hourly rate for services will be $300, to be paid in advance.

Payment for counseling services is due at the time of the appointment. Fees are subject to change; current clients will receive any notice of change in advance. Payment options include MasterCard, Visa, Amex, Personal Check, or Cash. If I am not an in-network provider with your insurance company, I can provide you with the necessary paperwork to submit for reimbursement. Prior to receiving services, it is recommended that you contact your insurance company so you are aware of out-of-pocket costs.

Five Reasons to Consider Paying Out-of-Pocket:

  1. People who pay out-of-pocket tend to be more motivated to make good use of their time in counseling. This often results in achieving goals faster along with a deeper and more meaningful counseling experience.

  2. Paying out-of-pocket puts you in more control of your treatment- you can determine if you need additional sessions.

  3. Privacy. While there are laws in place to protect your information, you may feel more comfortable knowing there is not a third-party involved (insurance company or employer). Additionally, with the use of technology comes the greater risk of information breaches.

  4. It takes time away from actually LIVING to complete the necessary processes insurance companies require to pay for services.

  5. Insurance companies do require the counselor to submit a diagnosis for the client to be eligible for services/reimbursement. While there are times when it is warranted, a diagnosis can impact people in a variety of ways. Should you wish to seek reimbursement from your insurance company, I will discuss the diagnosis with you.

Life is HARD and you are not alone. Support is available for you.

Take the next step: Contact Dr. Sartor now.

Schedule an Appointment.

Effective January 1, 2022

Under Section 2799B-6 of the Public Health Service Act, health care providers and health care facilities are required to provide a “Good Faith Estimate” of expected charges for items and services to individuals who do not have health insurance or those who will not be seeking reimbursement from their health insurance provider. Estimated cost for these individuals must be given both orally and in writing, upon request or at the time of scheduling health care items and services.

  • As a consumer, you have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate explaining how much services may cost you.

  • A Good Faith Estimate shows the costs of items and services that are reasonably expected for your health care needs for an item or service. All estimates are based on information known at the time the estimate was created.

  • Good Faith Estimates do not include any unknown or unexpected costs that may arise during treatment including referrals to other sources or fees associated with legal/court issues.

  • If you are charged more than the Good Faith Estimate, federal law allows you to dispute (appeal) the charge. You must first contact the provider and ask them to update the bill to match the Good Faith Estimate, ask to negotiate the bill, or ask if there is financial assistance available.

  • You may also start a dispute resolution process with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). If you choose to use the dispute resolution process, you must start the dispute process within 120 calendar days (about 4 months) of the date on the original bill. There is a $25 fee to use the dispute process. If the agency reviewing your dispute agrees with you, you will have to pay the price on this Good Faith Estimate. If the agency disagrees with you and agrees with the health care provider or facility, you will have to pay the higher amount.

For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate or the dispute process, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises

or call 1-800-985-3059.