How do I know therapy is right for me?

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We believe most individuals can benefit from therapy. Decades of research has demonstrated positive outcomes from therapy for individuals who have been diagnosed with one or more mental health conditions (e.g., anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress), or who are experiencing emotional distress that negatively impacts their quality of life. For example, many individuals notice changes in their mood, interest, energy, activity levels, concentration, sleep, or overall health and well-being that cause problems for them at home, work, school, or important relationships before deciding to seek therapy. Life circumstances such as the death of a loved one, divorce, career transitions, starting college, or chronic illness can also take a toll on an individual and be a reason for seeking therapy. If you find yourself struggling to manage existing mental health issues, unfamiliar and unpleasant emotions, or life challenges you aren't sure how to navigate or cope with on your own, Evolve is here to help. We welcome individuals from all walks of life, including those who identify with historically marginalized groups on the basis of their race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, religion, or ability level. 

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What can I expect from my first therapy session?

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It is natural for individuals seeking therapy for the first time to feel nervous about what to expect, especially if they aren't used to sharing personal matters with others. Your first session will involve establishing trust with your provider and getting to know one another. At the beginning of the session, your provider will offer information about therapy, telehealth, and general policies and procedures, and answer any questions you may have about the process. The remainder of the session will be dedicated to learning more about who you are as a person and your reasons for seeking therapy. Your provider will ask questions about your personal and family history, presenting concerns, goals for therapy, etc. to better understand how they can support you. Your provider will also offer initial impressions and recommendations based on your needs and goals so you can make an informed decision about the care your receive. If you decide to continue therapy after the first appointment, your provider will work with you to develop a collaborative treatment plan over the next few sessions. We encourage you to ask questions and raise any concerns you may have about therapy as you and your provider get to know one another.

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How often do I need to go to therapy and for how long?

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Treatment plans are personalized to the needs and goals of individual clients. The frequency and duration of treatment will be something you and your provider discuss early on to determine the best fitting approach. Most clients who engage in brief therapy meet with their provider on a weekly or bi-weekly basis for 50-60 minute appointments. Clients who actively engage in brief therapy may achieve maximal benefits within 8-12 sessions, at which time they may decide to meet with their provider less frequently or complete treatment altogether. Clients with complex or chronic mental health needs may require more continuous therapy and meet with their provider for a longer period of time, which can range from several months to a year or more. Your provider will routinely check in about how treatment is progressing and collaborate with you to develop a plan for therapy that is consistent with your needs and goals.  

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Why would I need psychological testing?

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Many individuals experience symptoms and problems that overlap with several mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar, personality, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorders. This can make it hard for providers to determine the best form of treatment to meet their needs. Psychological testing can assist with clarifying diagnoses to ensure individuals receive the appropriate psychiatric and therapeutic interventions for their condition(s). Psychological testing can also provide important insights into an individuals cognitive and emotional functioning that can be used to recommend accommodations at home, work, or school that maximize their potential for success and well-being. If you are interested in psychological testing, you will be required to complete a prescreening with a licensed provider to determine whether you are a candidate for this service. Referrals from external providers are encouraged, but not required, prior to the prescreening. 

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What can I expect from the testing process?

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Psychological testing is a process that requires considerable time and effort from clients. All clients are required to complete a 60-90 minute virtual prescreening appointment with a licensed psychologist. During the prescreening, your provider will ask questions about your upbringing, family of origin, life experiences, mental health, and medical history to understand who you are as a person and determine whether testing is needed. Your provider will discuss their initial impressions and recommendations for testing with you during this appointment. If recommended, your provider will schedule an in-person follow up appointment to complete the testing portion. The nature and time required for testing varies depending on an individuals needs and reasons for being evaluated. In most cases, testing will involve completing a variety of tasks with your provider that are designed to assess aspects of your cognitive functioning (e.g., intelligence, attention, memory, problem-solving), personality, and emotional well-being. The testing appointment may be 2 to 5 hours in duration (your provider will offer a more approximate estimate of the time required at the prescreening appointment). Once testing is completed, your provider will evaluate the outcomes and prepare a written report that includes diagnostic impressions and recommendations. Your provider will schedule a final feedback appointment with you 1-2 weeks after testing has been completed to review the results, discuss next steps, and answer any questions you may have. You may also request a copy of the written report to share with current or future providers to inform treatment planning efforts. 

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What insurance do you accept?

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We are currently in-network with the following insurance carriers: Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS), United Healthcare (UHC), United Medical Resources (UMR), and Medicare. Our office will verify your insurance coverage during the intake process and provide a good faith estimate of cost for services based on your plan benefits. We recommend clients also verify their plan coverage for mental healthcare with insurance prior to their first appointment. 

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What are the costs for services if I don't have insurance?

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Your provider will discuss costs for services with you during the initial phone consultation, which is free of charge. The current rate for the initial visit with a provider is $275. After the initial visit, individual therapy appointments lasting 50-60 minutes in duration are $225; 45-30 minutes in duration are $180; and 30-15 minutes in duration are $100 per visit. We also offer income-based sliding scale fees for individuals experiencing financial hardship and unable to pay the standard rates. Income-based payments would be determined with your provider prior to your first appointment.  

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For psychological testing, the initial appointment with a provider would be the same as above. The full cost of testing can range from $1,500-$2,500 and would be determined by your provider during the initial appointment before testing proceeds. Any additional services requested that occur outside of normal office hours and require administrative time must be agreed upon by your provider and will be separately billed at a rate of $45 per 15 minutes of time spent on activity. Examples of administrative services may include sending treatment records, completing forms for employers or disability claims, preparing letters of support for academic accommodations, etc.