Your Guide to Getting Started: Scheduling, Fees, and What to Expect
At Maplewood counseling, we offer a compassionate, judgment-free haven for individuals, couples and families of every background—including interfaith, interracial, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+ partnerships, as well as blended families. Our therapists combine professional expertise with their own diverse lived experiences to ensure you feel safe, affirmed, and deeply understood. You don’t have to explain who you are to us; you just have to be yourself. Reach out today to begin your journey toward a stronger, more connected relationship.
Taking the first step toward therapy is often the hardest part, and we want to make the rest of the journey as smooth as possible for you. Whether you are seeking support for yourself, your relationship, or a family member, we are here to guide you through the process of becoming a new client at Maplewood Counseling.
We believe in transparency and clarity. Below, you will find everything you need to know about our scheduling process, fees, insurance, and how we ensure you are matched with the therapist who is best suited to your unique needs.
The Matching Process: Finding the Right Fit for You
Therapy is a relationship, and like any relationship, the “fit” matters immensely. Research consistently shows that the bond between client and therapist is one of the strongest predictors of success. That is why we don’t just assign you to the next available slot; we take the time to match you with a clinician who has the specific expertise and personality to help you thrive.
How Our Matching Process Works:
- Initial Inquiry: When you reach out via our contact us page we ask for some basic information about what brings you to therapy and what you are looking for in a counselor.
- Clinical Review: Our intake coordinator reviews your needs, preferences, and availability. We consider factors like the type of therapy you are interested in (e.g., CBT, couples counseling), your preferred communication style, and any specific cultural or identity-based preferences.
- Personalized Recommendation: We connect you with the therapist on our team who is best equipped to support your specific goals. If we don’t have the right fit in-house, we are committed to providing you with trusted referrals in the community.
Fees and Investment in Your Well-Being
We understand that therapy is a financial commitment, and we want you to have a clear understanding of the costs involved before you begin. Our fees reflect the high level of specialized training, experience, and dedication our therapists bring to every session.
Standard Session Fees
- Individual, Couples & Family Therapy (45 mins): $150 – $240
- Initial Intake Session (60-75 mins): $190 – $480
Please note that fees may vary slightly depending on the specific therapist’s licensure level and experience.
Good Faith Estimate
Under the No Surprises Act, you have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” explaining how much your medical care will cost. If you are not using insurance, we will provide you with this estimate before your first scheduled service.
Insurance: Understanding Your Out-of-Network Benefits
Maplewood Counseling is an out-of-network provider. This means we do not accept insurance directly. However, many insurance plans offer out-of-network benefits that can reimburse you for a significant portion of the cost of therapy.
Why are we out-of-network?
By remaining out-of-network, we can prioritize your privacy and the quality of your care without the restrictions often imposed by insurance companies. This allows us to determine the length and type of treatment based solely on your needs, not on what a policy dictates.
How Reimbursement Works:
- Payment: You pay the full fee at the time of your session using a credit card, HSA, or FSA card.
- Superbill: At the end of each month, we provide you with a detailed receipt called a “Superbill.”
- Submission: You submit this Superbill to your insurance provider.
- Reimbursement: If you have out-of-network benefits, your insurance company will mail you a check for the reimbursed amount directly.
Questions to Ask Your Insurance Provider:
To avoid surprises, we recommend calling the number on the back of your insurance card and asking:
- Do I have out-of-network benefits for mental health services?
- What is my deductible, and has it been met?
- What percentage of the therapy fee will be reimbursed?
- Is pre-authorization required?
Ready to Schedule?
We have streamlined our intake process to be as simple and stress-free as possible.
Step 1: Visit the New Client Hub
Click here to access our Contact Us Page This portal allows you to view our therapists, see current availability, and submit your initial request securely.
Step 2: Complete Your Profile
Fill out the brief intake form. The more detail you provide, the better we can match you.
Step 3: Confirmation
Our team will review your request and reach out within 24 business hours to confirm your appointment and welcome you to the practice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do you offer sliding scale fees?
We have a limited number of sliding scale slots available for clients demonstrating financial need. Please inquire about availability when you submit your initial request.
Can I use my FSA or HSA card?
Yes! We accept both Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) cards as payment. This is a great way to use pre-tax dollars for your mental health care.
What is your cancellation policy?
We require 24 hours’ notice for cancellations. Because your appointment time is reserved exclusively for you, cancellations made with less than 24 hours’ notice will be charged the full session fee.
Do you offer evening or weekend appointments?
Yes, we understand that life is busy. Many of our therapists offer evening and weekend availability to accommodate work and school schedules. You can specify your preferred times in the intake form.
I’ve never been to therapy. What is the first session like?
It is normal to feel nervous! The first session, or “intake,” is a chance for your therapist to get to know you. They will ask about your history, your current challenges, and your goals. It is also a chance for you to ask them questions and see if you feel comfortable. There is no pressure to share everything all at once.
Start Your Journey Today
You deserve a space where you are heard, understood, and supported. If you have any other questions about fees, insurance, or scheduling, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Helpful Resources
- Individual Therapy: Personalized support for managing depression and stress.
- Understanding Anxiety: Learn how therapy can help manage anxiety.
- Grief Counseling: Support for processing loss and navigating grief.
- Guide to Self-Esteem: Build confidence and self-worth.
- Trauma-Informed Therapy: Support for Couples healing from past trauma.