Question 1

What can I expect during the course of therapy?

Accepted Answer

The initial sessions will be focused on information gathering, building our therapeutic relationship, exploring treatment goals. I will ask you questions to help me understand your challenges, values, dreams, and wishes. The therapeutic process can lead to new insights and reflections, shift in perspective, and new behaviors. As your therapist, I will aim to provide a safe space to hold your grief, emotional pain, and trauma.

Question 2

How long does therapy take?

Accepted Answer

It depends on how therapy unfolds for you, and on your treatment goals. It is important to note that therapy cannot create an overnight change. It is a gradual process, we will have an ongoing conversation on how many sessions will be beneficial for you.

Question 3

Do you offer virtual and/or in person sessions?

Accepted Answer

I am currently offering video sessions via  Google Meet (HIPAA compliant version). In the next few months, I hope to secure office space in the Oakland/Berkeley area to provide the option of in person therapy sessions.

Question 4

How frequent will our sessions be?

Accepted Answer

For an optimum experience, I recommend consistent therapy sessions. Our sessions will be 1x a week or 1x every 2 weeks. Each session is typically 50 minutes in duration.

Question 5

What is your pricing policy and payment method?

Accepted Answer

My fees are comparable to the Bay Area market. Your fees not only include the therapy session, but also include the additional time it takes me, as your provider to complete HIPAA compliant documentation after every session, seek consultation, and engage in treatment planning in between our sessions. I offer a limited number of sliding scale sessions, please inquire further if you are interested. I accept payment via PayPal.

Question 6

Do you accept health insurance coverage?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, I am currently not on any insurance panels and do not accept insurance. As a mental health provider, this allows me to work with more flexibility, get paid in a timely manner, collaborate with the client with respect to number of therapy sessions, and provide therapy to those who do meet diagnostic criteria for a DSM-5 diagnosis. You are able to provide a “super bill” to your insurance company for possible reimbursement, it is up to the insurance company’s discretion to decide if they approve of the reimbursement. A super bill also requires a DSM-5 mental health diagnosis, this can be be tricky if you require mental health support but do not meet a medical diagnosis. If you do meet criteria for a diagnosis, I am able to provide you a monthly super bill upon request.

Question 7

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

Sessions will be scheduled for fifty minutes. If you arrive late, the time cannot be made up. If you miss your appointment for any reason and have not provided at least 24 hours’ notice, you will be responsible for the fee. If you provide notice and reschedule your appointment, you will only be charged for the rescheduled session. There is no charge for missed sessions if notice is provided 24 hours ahead of your scheduled appointment.

Question 8

Do you prescribe medication?

Accepted Answer

Prescribing medications is out of my scope of practice. Depending on your history and symptoms, I may recommend a medication evaluation by your physician or psychiatrist. Typically your primary care physician (PCP) can support you with medications or refer you to an in-network psychiatrist.

Rayna Sanghvi, PhD / Clinical Psychologist

FAQ

Frequently asked questions