Client Care and Policies – Carol Merle-Fishman, M.A., FAMI, CIIPTS, LCAT, LMHC

Your well-being
is my top priority.

Here’s some important information to ensure our time together is as beneficial as possible.

Welcome

The Details

Scheduling and Fees:

I operate on an appointment-only basis and fees are based on individual, group, couples/marital/family sessions. Session lengths and fees may also vary based on the work we are doing. Payment is due at the time of your visit. For personalized payment arrangements or reduced fee options, let’s discuss during our initial consultation.

Insurance Considerations:

I operate as an out-of-network provider and am currently not on any insurance panels. This approach allows me to prioritize maximum confidentiality and sidestep potential complications linked to insurance submission. Your rights as a consumer are important, especially concerning the implications of using health insurance for counseling and psychotherapy and its impact on health care confidentiality.

I’m here to guide you through the nuances of this process, addressing any questions you may have about insurance coverage. Upon request, I’m pleased to provide a monthly statement of your session fees, which can be used for tax-purposes and/or out-of-network insurance claims, HSA (Health Savings Account), or FSA (Flexible Spending Account) offered by your employer, and/or tax purposes.

Cancellation Policy:

Your appointment times are set aside exclusively for you, ensuring dedicated and focused attention. To honor everyone’s time, please provide a minimum of 48 hours’ notice for cancellations. This allows me to potentially offer the time to others and helps you avoid any session charges. By design, I limit the number of people I see in my practice. This ensures that I can devote the time and attention needed for our work together.

Your cancellation window begins from the moment you leave a voicemail or send an email notifying me of the cancellation. Your understanding and cooperation in adhering to this policy contributes to maintaining a smooth and effective scheduling process for all clients.

Let’s connect.

Email me to get started

FAQs

How do I schedule an appointment?

To schedule an appointment, please contact me via phone or email, and so we can find a time to speak and schedule an initial consultation.

What types of therapy do you offer?

I provide individual, group, and couples/marital/family therapy. Modalities include traditional verbal psychotherapy, Creative Arts Therapy(music), Music Therapy, Guided Imagery and Music, Continuum Model of Music and Imagery. Learn more about my Services.

What are your fees, and how do I pay?

Fees vary based on session type and length. Payment is due at the time of your session. I accept various payment methods for your convenience.

Do you accept insurance?

While I am not on insurance panels, many health plans offer out-of-network coverage. I can guide you through this process and discuss any insurance-related questions you may have.

What is your cancellation policy?

I require at least 48 hours’ notice for cancellations. This allows me to offer the time to others and helps you avoid session charges. Please check the policies section for more details.

How can I connect for a telehealth session?

Telehealth sessions are available. We can connect via secure video conferencing, ensuring a safe and confidential space for our sessions.

Is there a tranquil space for in-person sessions?

Yes, my office is located in Cedarbrook House, offering a serene country setting. Clients are welcome to enjoy the beautiful gardens before or after sessions.

Can I request a monthly statement for insurance or tax purposes?

Certainly! Upon request, I am happy to provide a monthly statement of your session fees for insurance and/or tax purposes.

How can I get more information about your therapeutic approach?

For additional information about my therapeutic approach please visit my page about my Psychotherapy and Counseling Philosophy which fully describes my comprehensive approach and the modalities and specialties I offer.

I’d like to learn more about the details of the treatment modalities you utilize in your practice. Do you have resources I can explore?

Certainly. There are links to several organizations in which I am active and professionally affiliated. These can be found on the page about Psychotherapy and Counseling Philosophy. You can also reach out to me directly with any questions you may have. I’m here to help demystify the psychotherapy and counseling process, so you can feel informed and empowered in your choice to work with me.

What is your background and qualifications?

To learn more about my 40 years of experience as well as organizations I’m affiliated with, please visit the About Me page.

How do I reach out with additional questions?

Feel free to contact me by phone or email with any additional questions or concerns. I’m here to assist you on your therapeutic journey.