Process of Therapy
What is therapy?
Therapy refers to a process where you build a relationship with a mental health professional and work together on addressing problems in your life. This generally happens by talking to a mental health professional but can sometimes include therapy groups. Therapy is sometimes called counseling or psychotherapy. It may be provided by a social worker, counselor, mental health clinician, psychiatrist or a clinical psychologist.
How do I start?
The first step is to reach out for a brief, introductory call. We have a chance to introduce ourselves and you have a chance to let me know what you want help with and get a sense for me and my style. If that all goes well, we schedule for an intake appointment.
What should I expect?
The first appointment, or the intake appointment, is where I get a lot of information from you. I am hoping to get a sense of what you want help with, what has happened in the past to bring you to this point and anything else you think is important for me to know. The initial stage of information gathering takes 1-3 sessions. At the end of this I discuss my observations and recommend a treatment plan to you. Then, our work moves into the treatment phase where we are actively working together to help you achieve your goals.
Fees/Payment
How does payment work?
Payment is due at the time of the session. Clients are asked to either pay in advance of the session or have a credit card on file to be charged following the session. At the end of the month I provide clients with a Superbill to submit to their insurance company for reimbursement. It is the client’s responsibility to discuss their coverage with their insurance company. The provision of a Superbill does not guarantee reimbursement.
How does this work for consultation to therapists?
The process for consultation is similar to all the other services provided. I meet with clinicians who are interested in consultation on DBT, CBT or trauma-based therapies to discuss their goals and develop a plan to meet those goals.
Fees
Please contact the practice to discuss fees.
It is important to be aware that this is private pay or a fee-for-service practice. That means that the payment for the session is due at the time of the session. Dr. Vijay is not able to accept Medicare or commercial-based insurances. The office will provide an invoice at the end of each month (a Superbill) for submission to insurance. However, it is the client’s responsibility to clarify the benefits they may receive for out-of-network care.
Who Should Work with Dr. Vijay
Dr. Vijay has expertise in treating people with Borderline Personality Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, high conflict families, parenting challenges, and young adults who are navigating their way in the world. She utilizes evidence-based strategies and takes a compassionate approach to working with individual clients and their families.