FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is psychotherapy like? Is it just someone to talk to?
While forming a trusting relationship with your therapist and spending most of the session talking about yourself and your challenges is essential to your treatment, psychotherapy is a lot more than just talking to someone. Psychologists are especially trained to guide you in understanding thoughts and/or behaviors that are interfering with your ability to live the life you want to lead. Psychologists do not offer advice or just sit quietly listening; instead, they help you gain insight into ways you can change aspects of yourself so that you can achieve your goals for emotional and mental health. Additionally, homework is a regular part of therapy as the majority of work you will do to improve your life will occur between sessions.
Is what I share in session private?
Yes, psychotherapy sessions are completely confidential, meaning your therapist cannot discuss anything you share in session with anyone else without your written permission. The only limits to confidentiality (i.e., the only times your psychologist will be legally required to share information you discussed in session) are if you pose an immediate threat to yourself or someone else. Additionally, psychologists are legally required to report instances of abuse of children or vulnerable populations (e.g., disabled individuals, elderly individuals).
Will I need to be in therapy for the rest of my life?
No, in fact, therapy is best when it is time-limited. The length of treatment and how frequently you have sessions will be something you determine with your psychologist at the time of treatment planning. Length of treatment is highly individualized based on your particular needs. You can also terminate and reinstate treatment at any time as it is a completely voluntary experience.
What are your hours?
Garrison Virtual Psychology Services is pleased to offer flexible hours to accommodate your schedule to include evening and weekend hours. Once you are an established client, you will be able to easily schedule your appointments online.
Do you have an office?
No, we offer only 100% virtual services. This means you can engage in therapy in the comfort and ease of your home or other private location. You will be able to access services from any electronic device equipped with camera and microphone including smart phones, tablets, and laptops. Garrison Virtual Psychology Services utilizes the Smart Practice platform.
Do you take my insurance?
Garrison Virtual Psychology Services is currently in network with Aetna, Cigna, Quest Behavioral Health, Florida Blue, and BlueCross BlueShield of Massachusetts. There are a number of insurance carriers that may reimburse you at the allowable rate for your plan. Your provider can supply you a Superbill and other required documentation to submit the necessary reimbursement forms. Current fees are free initial telephone consultation, $175 for initial evaluation, $150 for 60 minute sessions, and $125 for 30 to 45 minute sessions.
Is virtual psychotherapy the same as in person?
The pandemic that began in 2020 forced mental health providers and patients to develop alternatives to face to face services. Now, after several years of providers offering virtual services, the evidence demonstrates that treatment can be just as effective when rendered virtually as it is when provided in an office. Virtual services also allow for more reasonable fees by our practice as our overhead is significantly lower than it would be for an office-based practice. If you have additional concerns about what virtual care may be like, we would be happy to discuss during a free telephone consultation.