Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sex Therapy?
Sex therapy is a form of talk therapy that addresses the relational, cognitive, emotional, physical and psycho-social factors influencing one’s sexual experience. No sexual activity or sexual surrogacy is performed during sex therapy. An AASECT Certified Sex Therapist is a licensed therapist with several years of extensive, specialized training and supervision in sexuality and treating clients with sexual concerns. Therefore, an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist has an informed awareness and comprehensive understanding of sexuality that surpasses personal opinions, bias and cultural narratives.
Creating a safe setting where you can discuss your sexual concerns without judgment, embarrassment or shame is essential in Sex Therapy. The process begins with a thorough assessment that includes a sexual history and relationship history. Following this assessment, we will create a meaningful treatment plan with specific goals for your therapy. Sex therapy may involve reading assignments, at-home practice activities, journaling, relaxation exercises, and other experiential activities custom-designed to help you cultivate a relaxed, authentic and satisfying sex life.
Consumer Note: Legally in Arizona, any therapist can call themselves a "Sex Therapist" or say they provide "Sex Therapy" even without any training or knowledge of sexuality. Only with AASECT Certified Sex Therapists can you rest assured that your therapist has received extensive, specialized training in sexuality, has demonstrated competency under supervision, and is therefore highly qualified to address your sexual issues in therapy. Visit www.AASECT.org to learn more about what it takes to become a Certified Sex Therapist.
Why Telehealth?
I am guessing you may have a few questions, especially about using video telehealth. Why use telehealth? Research has shown that video telehealth is as effective as is in-person therapy. Some studies suggest that telehealth can be even more productive than meeting in-person because there is no lost time commuting to and from the appointment. A client can be in his or her own comfortable environment, and less obstacles prevent meeting with the therapist...such as a mild illness, childcare issues, or rush-hour traffic jams. The only requirements to successfully participate in video teleheath are a good Internet/cellular connection, and a private space to engage in the session. We will use a secure-video platform and you may use your personal computer or phone.
Do You Accept Insurance?
I am not in network with any insurance company. I am a private-pay clinician and I am considered an Out-Of-Network provider. I do not work with insurance for several reasons:
Insurance reimbursement requires a diagnosis. This diagnosis will become a permanent part of your medical records. This may impact your ability to obtain other types of service in the future (i.e. life or disability insurance).
Your records are much less private. Your insurance company may ask to audit your therapy records in order to process your claim, and sensitive information about your therapy may need to be disclosed with your consent (i.e. your diagnosis).
The insurer decides how much therapy you need, and what kind. Many insurance companies often do not reimburse for sex therapy or for couples therapy due to diagnostic codes that are assigned to these services.
Please contact your insurance provider prior to your first session to understand their out-of-network reimbursement policies. I will provide you with a superbill (statement of services) should you choose to apply for insurance reimbursement for your therapy sessions.
What Are Your Session Fees?
I offer 50-minute sessions for $225.
Are your fees different for individuals and couples? My session fees are consistent whether I am working with an individual or a couple.
What types of payment do you accept?
My practice accepts most major credit cards as a form of payment. HSA cards may also be utilized. A credit card is held on file for late cancellations and will be required when scheduling your first appointment.
Do you offer a free consultation?
Yes! I offer a complimentary 15-minute phone consultation to get a better understanding of how I can support you, and to allow you to ask any questions you may have. I am happy to provide you with appropriate referrals if our schedules don’t align or if different support is needed.
What is your cancellation policy?
If you need to change or cancel your appointment, please do so at least 48 hours in advance of your session to avoid a full-session charge.