Q: Who will answer when I call?
A: Either I will answer or you will reach my confidential voicemail. If you reach my voicemail, leave a message and I will return your call promptly.
Q: What will my first appointment be like?
A: I typically schedule an initial 1 hour appointment. It will be a time for me to get to know more about you, your situation, and what brings you to see me. It is also a time for you to get a sense of what it is like to work with me. At the end of the hour we can talk together about goals and set an initial plan for your work.
Q: How do I know if you are the right therapist for me?
A: Finding a therapist who you connect with is critically important in order for therapy to be successful. It can often be helpful to reach out to a few therapists to get a sense of what feels right for you. I offer a complimentary 15-minute phone consultation, where you can ask questions and get an initial sense of what it may be like to work together.
Q: Will my insurance be accepted?
A: With insurances I work as an out-of-network provider. Out-of-network coverage often reimburses 60-80% of costs, but this can vary depending upon your plan. If you wish to use out-of-network benefits, you will be asked to pay my fee and I will provide a receipt or other necessary documentation for reimbursement. For information about your coverage, call your insurance company and ask:
- Does my policy cover out-of-network benefits?
- What is my deductible, and how much has been met this year?
- How much does my out-of-network benefit cover?
- What is the process for out-of-network reimbursement?
Q: What are the fees?
A: Fees will be agreed upon at the initial visit. The usual fee is $220 per 50-minute therapy session. If you have concerns about affording the fee, please discuss them. Some sliding scale fees are offered.
Q: How often would we meet?
A: Typically, I set up weekly appointments. However, if beneficial, we may meet more or less frequently.
Q: How long does therapy last?
A: The length of therapy varies depending on the therapeutic goals, the complexity of your needs, your motivation and a variety of other factors. While some people accomplish goals in a few sessions, others may utilize therapy effectively for a year or more. Typically, after the first few sessions, I can provide a general sense of how long it is likely to take to accomplish your goals.
Q: Is Dr. Balaban licensed?
A: Yes, I am a New York State Licensed Psychologist #016581. You can verify my license at www.op.nysed.gov/opsearches.htm
Q: Is what I talk about confidential?
A: Everything that you talk about in therapy is legally and ethically protected by confidentiality. Even the fact that you are in therapy is confidential. Confidentiality is taken very seriously and considered a cornerstone of psychotherapy. There are some exceptions to confidentiality that you should know. These are:
- If there is reason to believe that you are an immediate risk to yourself or someone else
- If it is believed that a child, elder, or person with a disability has been abused or neglected
- In a legal proceeding a judge may order that information be disclosed
These situations have rarely occurred in my practice. If one of these situations occurs, I will make every effort to fully discuss it with you before taking any action. I sometimes may find it helpful to consult other professionals. During consultation, I make every effort to avoid revealing the identity of my clients. The consultant is also legally bound to keep the information confidential.