Frequently Asked Questions:
Question: Does therapy work?
Answer: I am asked this question quite frequently. I always answer: "Therapy takes two!" I have seen many successes. However, happiness is not a guarantee. You are here so this means you are ready for change. As long as you remain active, determined, and motivated, you are on your way! I am dedicated to help and guide you along your journey. The success of your therapy depends on you.
Question: When are you in the office?
Answer: I am in the office during the weekdays, some day and evening hours are available. Please contact me to discuss your specific needs as I am able to accommodate most schedules.
Question: Do you take insurance?
Answer: Currently, I am accepting Excellus Blue Cross Blue Shield, Fidelis/Medicaid, Aetna, MHN, Tri-care, Magellan, MVP/Value Options/Beacon, Humana/LifeSynch, Independent Health, Multiplan, Magnacare, Lifetime Benefits Solutions, United, Univera, and Pomco insurances. I also participate with many EAP programs. I also accept HSA and FSA. Some other insurance plans may cover in full or in part or an employee benefit plan by submitting a receipt for reimbursement as an out-of-network provider. I am happy to assist you with this process if needed. Please check your coverage carefully by asking the following questions before our first appointment:
* Do I have mental health benefits?
* What is my deductible and has it been met?
* How many sessions per calendar year does my plan cover?
* How much does my plan cover for an in-network or out-of-network provider. What is my co-payment?
* Do I need prior authorization for behavioral health services?
* Is referral required from my primary care physician?
Insurance companies will not reimburse you without having access to paperwork from me including a diagnosis of a "disorder". This diagnosis can stay in your insurance files indefinitely. It can be requested under certain circumstances by outside parties. Aside from this, many clients like the fact that the work we do together represents an investment that they make in themselves giving them a greater sense of empowerment and freedom. Please consider the insurance decision carefully.
Question: What are your fees and do you offer reduced fees?
Answer: Please feel free to contact me to discuss fees for service. On a limited basis, I can offer a sliding scale fee based on your income and ability to pay for services.
Question: What forms of payment are accepted?
Answer: Cash, credit, check, or FSA/HSA accounts are all accepted. Checks can be made out to Jennifer Steffenhagen.
Question: What if I need to cancel an appointment?
Answer: If you need to cancel an appointment, at least 24-hours advanced notice is required. If this notice is not provided or the appointment becomes a "no show," you will be responsible for the full cost of the session. It is important to recognize that this appointment time was reserved for you. Please understand and respect this policy.
Question: What about my privacy?
Answer: Primarily, all communications between client and psychotherapist are confidential by law. Information cannot and will not be disclosed without written permission from you or your parent/legal guardian if you are under the age of 18. However, there are a few exceptions to be aware of.Exceptions include but are not limited to:
1. Suspected child abuse or dependent adult or elder abuse. The therapist as a mandated reporter is required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
2. If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person(s), the therapist must notify the police and inform the intended victim(s).
3. If a client intends to harm him/ herself, the therapist will make every effort to promote the client's cooperation to ensure his/her safety. If the client does not cooperate, further measures may be taken without his/her permission in order to ensure their safety.
Question: Does therapy work?
Answer: I am asked this question quite frequently. I always answer: "Therapy takes two!" I have seen many successes. However, happiness is not a guarantee. You are here so this means you are ready for change. As long as you remain active, determined, and motivated, you are on your way! I am dedicated to help and guide you along your journey. The success of your therapy depends on you.
Question: When are you in the office?
Answer: I am in the office during the weekdays, some day and evening hours are available. Please contact me to discuss your specific needs as I am able to accommodate most schedules.
Question: Do you take insurance?
Answer: Currently, I am accepting Excellus Blue Cross Blue Shield, Fidelis/Medicaid, Aetna, MHN, Tri-care, Magellan, MVP/Value Options/Beacon, Humana/LifeSynch, Independent Health, Multiplan, Magnacare, Lifetime Benefits Solutions, United, Univera, and Pomco insurances. I also participate with many EAP programs. I also accept HSA and FSA. Some other insurance plans may cover in full or in part or an employee benefit plan by submitting a receipt for reimbursement as an out-of-network provider. I am happy to assist you with this process if needed. Please check your coverage carefully by asking the following questions before our first appointment:
* Do I have mental health benefits?
* What is my deductible and has it been met?
* How many sessions per calendar year does my plan cover?
* How much does my plan cover for an in-network or out-of-network provider. What is my co-payment?
* Do I need prior authorization for behavioral health services?
* Is referral required from my primary care physician?
Insurance companies will not reimburse you without having access to paperwork from me including a diagnosis of a "disorder". This diagnosis can stay in your insurance files indefinitely. It can be requested under certain circumstances by outside parties. Aside from this, many clients like the fact that the work we do together represents an investment that they make in themselves giving them a greater sense of empowerment and freedom. Please consider the insurance decision carefully.
Question: What are your fees and do you offer reduced fees?
Answer: Please feel free to contact me to discuss fees for service. On a limited basis, I can offer a sliding scale fee based on your income and ability to pay for services.
Question: What forms of payment are accepted?
Answer: Cash, credit, check, or FSA/HSA accounts are all accepted. Checks can be made out to Jennifer Steffenhagen.
Question: What if I need to cancel an appointment?
Answer: If you need to cancel an appointment, at least 24-hours advanced notice is required. If this notice is not provided or the appointment becomes a "no show," you will be responsible for the full cost of the session. It is important to recognize that this appointment time was reserved for you. Please understand and respect this policy.
Question: What about my privacy?
Answer: Primarily, all communications between client and psychotherapist are confidential by law. Information cannot and will not be disclosed without written permission from you or your parent/legal guardian if you are under the age of 18. However, there are a few exceptions to be aware of.Exceptions include but are not limited to:
1. Suspected child abuse or dependent adult or elder abuse. The therapist as a mandated reporter is required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
2. If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person(s), the therapist must notify the police and inform the intended victim(s).
3. If a client intends to harm him/ herself, the therapist will make every effort to promote the client's cooperation to ensure his/her safety. If the client does not cooperate, further measures may be taken without his/her permission in order to ensure their safety.