Online Counseling For Pennsylvania-based Entrepreneurs and Startups

Fees and Frequently Asked Questions

 

 

Dr. Melvin, where are you located?

I live in Philadelphia, PA but have a “virtual office” that allows me to anyone who resides in the state of Pennsylvania.

We will meet online via secure video conferencing. 

I’ll send you the link after our free consultation. 

What is therapy like with you?

I recently asked colleagues who’ve known me for several years what I’m like as a clinician.  Here are some words they shared: kind, gentle but direct, great listener, witty, deep, sees patterns that you may not be aware.  

We’ll meet via HIPAA-compliant, secure video for 50 minutes (we’ll use the remaining time to handle any admin tasks like scheduling future appointments.

Does what we talk about in therapy remain confidential?

I know how small the entrepreneur community is. Please know that what we talk about will not travel outside of our time together. The only exceptions to confidentiality are times where I’m concerned about yours safety (active thoughts of suicide or homicide), abuse/neglect of a child (under the age of 17), or abuse of anyone that’s elderly or has special needs.  

How long will therapy take?

The time we will spend together varies. Some clients see me for around 4-8 weekly sessions and then do maintenance sessions as stressors arise. Others see for me weekly for a few months while others start this way and see me less periodically. We’ll decide together what makes the most sense for you (financially, emotionally, etc).

Will you prescribe medication?

I’m currently not able to prescribe medication due to my license. However, I can give you some great referrals if you’re considering medication.

What are your fees and how do I pay?

Payment is $250 for a 50 minute individual counseling session. 

Payment are made by credit card or via an HSA/FSA card. I can hold your credit card information securely so we don’t have to worry about wasting counseling time with billing, etc.

 

What are your office hours and can you see me on evenings/weekends?

I see clients Tuesdays from 10 AM-1 PM EST. I have these hours due to my responsibilities with my online business. 

Do you accept insurance?

I’m considered an “out-of-network” provider with insurance companies.

At the end of each session, I can provide you with a “super bill” to submit for reimbursement of out of network services.

I can also handle submitting this for you.

How do I get reimbursed by my insurance company after paying for counseling?

If you’re planning to use insurance, please reach out to your insurance provider BEFORE scheduling a consult with me.

The phone number can be found on the back of your insurance card.

It’s best to ask your insurance representative the following questions:

  • Do I have mental health benefits through my health insurance?
  • If I have mental health benefits, are out-of-network benefits included?
  • In order to be reimbursed, do I need pre-approval before obtaining out-of-network mental health services?
  • If I have out-of-network benefits, will I be reimbursed the full amount I paid or a portion of the amount?
  • If I have out-of-network benefits, must I select a mental health provider from a list or can I choose any provider?
  • Is online counseling services by a licensed psychologist covered?
  • Where do I submit a “superbill” to get reimbursed (it’s usually a fax, an online portal, or a physical mailing address)?

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What's the next step in getting started?

To schedule an appointment, let’s first schedule a 20 minute free consultation (you can either call or click any of the Schedule A Free Consult buttons).  This allows us to connect, to make sure we’re a good fit, and for me to understand if I or someone else can help you better.