How does it work?
An appointment is established via the “Book an Appointment” page and pre-paid via Stripe. At the designated time, the client follows the link to Cindy Lerner Counseling. I will answer and the session begins.
What are the benefits of teletherapy?
Sometimes life makes it difficult to get to appointments. Teletherapy offers the convenience of not having to leave your house. Alternatively, lunchtime sessions might be available if you can access some privacy at your workplace without having to take the time to get yourself to and from the appointment.
How secure is my personal information?
All information is completely confidential and compliant with HIPAA standards. The website is secured using a VPN (Virtual Private Network.)
All video sessions, E-mail, phones, and messaging are secured with encrypting technology.
How are appointments made; fees paid?
On this website, you will find a calendar of available session times. You are able to select the appointment of choice and once done, that appointment will be verified and you will be prompted to the payment page where you will make a payment. I will then be notified that you are all set for your appointment. You may also request a time that is not listed if your circumstances require something different from what is normally available. But you will have to set that up with me prior to selecting the time.
How long are the sessions?
Therapy sessions adhere to the “50 minute hour” rule. This gives the therapist time to make some notes regarding your session, as well as prepare for the next session.
Couples are encouraged to choose 90-minute sessions, although I do not insist upon this.
What does a session cost?
My rate is $150 per 50-minute session, considered to be on the lower end of the “customary and reasonable rate” in the Charlottesville, VA area. I understand that this may be an obstacle for some, so I do have a limited number of appointments available on a sliding scale. If your situation requires such consideration, please inquire.
Does my insurance cover therapy?
Teletherapy is usually covered by insurance. You should call your insurance company to find out whether teletherapy is covered by your plan. I am not a network provider for most insurance companies, so my services would be considered out of network. If they ask for a “Place of Service” code, the code is “02.” I do accept Medicare.
How long will I be in therapy?
This really does greatly depend upon individual circumstances. However, within a range of 6 months to 2 years is the most common. There are also many people who benefit from more long-term and ongoing support.
How frequent are the sessions?
It is important for therapy sessions to be consistent. Therefore, they are weekly, and usually at the same prescribed time.
What if I want bi-weekly sessions?
Bi-weekly sessions are reserved for and are a courtesy to current clients who are basically getting ready to end therapy and want to wean themselves off gradually. It is not expected to last more than about 3 months.
In order to accommodate this into my schedule, I have to charge more for bi-weekly sessions. Therefore, the monthly cost for bi-weekly sessions is about the same cost as 3 weekly sessions, based on what the individual is paying.
What do I need to do to prepare for my session?
It is of most importance that this hour is set aside without interruption or distraction. The convenience of therapy at home will be undermined if there are any outside distractions. You must treat this time as though you are somewhere else and unable to be disturbed. Please arrange your sessions with this as the most important aspect.
What if I need more than one weekly session?
We will be able to arrange for that, either on an as-needed basis or as what we decide together to be the most beneficial to your individual needs. While it is not uncommon for some clients to require 2 weekly sessions, most people do fine with one.
Back to Top
What if I have a crisis and need to talk to my therapist?
I will generally be able to get back to you within a few hours. However, I do not have a staff, so I cannot guarantee a specific call-back policy. I do make every effort to return calls to clients as soon as I possibly can. I trust that the message you leave me will provide an accurate assessment of your call-back needs. Simply put; an emergency is an emergency. Anything else is important, but not an emergency. On my message recording you will be instructed to hang up and call 911. However, please let me know who you are and that you are calling 911 so that I may check In on you.
Do you have sessions by email?
So far, I haven’t. However, email can be used In much the same way as a phone call, to discuss a matter of Importance between sessions.