What can therapy do for me?
Having a safe place to share your concerns and feel supported in expressing them is often a meaningful experience in and of itself. Beyond that, the care, compassion, and confidentiality that a trusted listener provides lays the foundation for self-exploration, self-expression, goal-setting, enhanced communication skills, and healthier ways of coping with internal and external stresses.
How long are the sessions?
Sessions are typically 45-60 minutes in duration. However, longer sessions may sometimes be needed; you can discuss this with your counselor.
Will my insurance cover counseling services?
Services may be covered in whole or in part by your health insurance or employee benefit plan. Please check your coverage carefully by asking the following questions:
- Do I have mental health insurance benefits?
- What is my deductible, and has it been met?
- How many sessions per year does my health insurance cover?
- What is the coverage amount per therapy session?
- Is approval required from my primary care physician?
Where exactly are your offices located?
I only offer virtual services via a HIPAA-compliant web-based video platform- TherapyNotes.
What do I need to bring with me to counseling?
For the first session, you will need to bring a copy of your ID and insurance card (if you will be using insurance) and a form of payment. You will also be sent a client info sheet and consent form via the client portal to complete before your initial visit.
Do you provide assistance in court (i.e. custody disputes)?
No. Due to the nature of the therapeutic process and the fact that it often involves making a full disclosure with regard to many matters that may be of a confidential nature, it is agreed that should there be legal proceedings (such as, but not limited to divorce and custody disputes, injuries, lawsuits, etc.), neither you nor your attorney(s), nor anyone else acting on your behalf will call on Melissa Alvarado, PhD, LPC-S to testify in court or at any other proceeding, nor will disclosure of the counseling records be requested unless otherwise agreed upon. In such a case, fees for such services will be discussed.
Some professionals focus on such issues. This is called forensic counseling.
Melissa Alvarado, PhD, LPC-S 