Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of therapy?

Therapy costs range from $135-$195 depending on the type of service you are requesting. Our therapists/counselors are also under several insurance plans if you choose to use your mental health benefits for individual sessions. Insurance companies/plans do not cover couple’s counseling sessions since they only pay for services that are “medically Necessary". Couples are generally looking for help with communication, bonding, conflict management and do not qualify for a diagnosis/medical necessity. All benefit claims will be submitted by us to your insurance for individual sessions. Your co-payment or deductible per session will be due at the time of service.

How long are the therapy sessions?

Couples sessions are offered at 60 or 90 minutes increments. Individuals using their insurance for the sessions are typically allowed up to 60 minutes per session. Insurance will not cover past this time but if you would like to have a longer session, let your counselor know and they can give you the rate difference.

What can I expect at the first visit?

The therapist will create a safe, therapeutic and confidential environment while gathering information about your presenting issue or reasons for seeking therapy. The therapist will also gather information about your history (family, relationship, psychological, career, etc.) and your current lifestyle (schedule, stressors, support network, etc,). The therapist will explain the process of therapy and may discuss some initial goals and objectives. You are encouraged to ask any questions you might have about therapy and to share your objectives, concerns, etc. You and your therapist may discuss frequency of visits (which is usually once a week at the start of therapy), and you will schedule your next visit if you and your therapist agree it is a fit to work together. There is some basic paperwork that you will complete prior to the first session that will contain information about your contact information, insurance, confidentiality, etc.

How long will I be in therapy?

Length of treatment depends on the presenting issue and the goals of treatment. Brief treatment might be as short as three to five sessions while longer term therapy might last as long as a few years. The therapist and client will collaborate to determine the length of treatment that is clinically appropriate and feels comfortable for the client.

What is the theoretical orientation?

At Pacific Northwest Counseling several counselors/therapists have a Christian centered world view while implementing theoretical approaches that are evidence based. These approaches include Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Gottman Method Couple’s Therapy, family systems, and many others. Clients are matched with clinicians who best meet their needs.

Insurance

Most insurance plans will cover mental health and substance abuse treatment, however couple’s counseling is not typically covered by insurance. We will therefore not bill your insurance for this service and payments will be private pay. Pacific Northwest Counseling accepts many insurance plans and EAP (Employee Assistance Program) sessions. Unfortunately, we do not accept Medicaid or Medicare at this time. Co-payments/deductibles per session are collected at the time of service. Your therapist will explain your coverage at the following session after the insurance company responds with a quote of benefits — which is not an absolute guarantee of coverage.

Below is a list of the current insurance companies Pacific Northwest Counseling is contracted with:

  • Aetna

  • First Health Network

  • Regence - Blue Shield of Idaho

  • Blue Cross of Idaho

  • Tricare West

  • Optum

  • UMR

  • HMA

  • Pacificsource (Voyager plan only)

  • SelectHealth

  • Bright Path/ SLHP

  • Aetna (Pending)

  • ESI EAP

  • First Choice Health EAP

  • Life Solutions EAP

Teletherapy

All our therapist are currently offering teletherapy only at this time. All your appointments will take place through a HIPPA compliant online platform. Teletherapy consists of live video conferencing to provide therapeutic services. While teletherapy has its benefits, there also some disadvantages.

Advantages of teletherapy:

  • Convenience of travel

  • Flexibility of time

  • Accessibility

  • Cost Savings

  • Consistency

Disadvantages of teletherapy:

  • Reliability of technology

  • Familiarity of technology

  • Insurance may not cover

Michele Haynes's profile on the Gottman Referral Network