FAQ
Making the decision to reach out for therapy can be scary. Below you will find the answers to some commonly asked questions-hopefully this will make this step a little easier. And as always, you can always contact us directly with your questions.
What to expect:
Scheduling - You can request an appointment by calling our office-757-937-5780-or emailing us at info@sealevelcw.com. We will discuss your scheduling needs by phone and will gather some information to help us connect you with the best therapist to meet your needs. We will ask about your insurance, scheduling preferences, and areas you want to focus on. By the end of the call, you will either have an appointment scheduled or have a time frame of when we can schedule you.
Patient Portal - After scheduling, you will receive an email with information to create a username and password for our patient portal. Here, you will complete Background information, an Informed consent, a Credit Card Authorization, and other forms pertinent to your start of therapy. These forms will need to be completed before your first session.
First Appointment - Please arrive on time. We gather a lot of information and want you to have enough time to discuss your treatment expectations. After this appointment, you and your therapist will discuss your follow up appointments.
What is the difference between Medicaid and Commercial insurance?
Medicaid is a state-funded insurance that has no copay/coinsurance. Commercial insurance is typically provided by you, your spouse’s or parent’s employer. Insurance plans purchased on the Healthcare exchange are like commercial plans—there is usually a copay, coinsurance, and deductible that applies.
Do you accept Medicare?
At this time, we do not accept Medicare.
Do you accept Tricare?
Yes, but we are “non-network”, which means all active-duty service members with Tricare Prime will need a referral from their PCM for our office before we can schedule. Prime Dependents will need a referral, as well, but we can usually help with that. Those with Tricare Select typically do not need a referral.
Will my insurance cover my sessions?
Yes, health insurance covers outpatient mental health appointments just like medical appointments. As always, it is your responsibility to check with your insurance provider to make sure you know your benefits and if we are in network with your insurance company.
Do you file with secondary insurance?
No, we do not file with secondary insurance.
How many sessions can I have?
Typically, insurance will pay for “unlimited” sessions. It is up to you to determine if your insurance has a cap on the sessions they will pay for. This is also determined by you and your therapist regarding clinical necessity.
When do I pay for my appointment?
We require that a credit card is kept on file for appointments, regardless of how you plan to pay. Your card is kept in a confidential, HIPAA-protected electronic health record and are stored for your convenience. We will charge your card the morning of your appointment. In the event you will need to be charged for more than 1 payment, we will contact you first.
Why do I have to complete the paperwork before my first appointment?
Plainly put—so we can have as much time as possible to focus on what is important for you to discuss in your first appointment. The background paperwork is information we’ll need to know to help gain a full clinical picture of you. The other forms or giving us permission to engage in treatment, bill your insurance for sessions, and to notify you of your rights as a client.
How do I cancel or reschedule an appointment?
We ask that you give us 24 hours for canceled appointments—we cannot bill insurance for missed appointments and want to be able to offer the open slot to someone who may need it. We do charge a broken appointment fee if the appointment is missed or if it is canceled day-of. We do understand that emergencies come up. If you are canceling day-of, please call our office before 3pm or email your therapist directly.
How do I reach my therapist?
Our website has all of the email addresses for our therapists. Go to the Team page and select your therapist’s profile.