Online Therapy with Kimberly Powers, LMFT
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some answers to common questions about my practice and what it’s like working with me. Don’t see your question answered here? Contact me and I’ll get back to you within 2 business days.
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I am currently only offering virtual appointments in both California and Texas.
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I am currently paneled with Aetna, Optum, United Health Care (CA & TX), and Blue Shield of California (CA only).
If you are outside of those networks, then I also work with Thrizer, a platform that helps clients navigate out-of-network therapy benefits. If you have out-of-network benefits, Thrizer will file claims and handle the insurance paperwork to make sure you get to pay your copay rather than the full session fee. Thrizer charges a 5% fee per claim and have helped people get thousands of dollars back per year. Thrizer is fully HIPAA compliant.
Note: Thrizer’s goal is to save you time and money. It's completely optional, and as your therapist I do not benefit in any way from your participation.
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If I am paneled with your insurance, we’ll get you set up with that before our first meeting to determine eligibility.
If you’re out of network, I can either provide you with a superfill or I’ll send you an invite to Thrizer.
You can check to see if your insurance covers out of network benefits by signing up with Thrizer.
Thrizer will determine your copay (if eligible) and that will be what you’re obligated to pay.
Outside of using Thrizer, the best way to understand your out-of-network benefits is to call your insurance carrier directly.
If you would like a guide to out-of-network benefits, please contact me.
Otherwise, some questions to consider asking are:
Do I have any out-of-network benefits for outpatient psychotherapy office visits?
What is my out-of-network deductible and has it been met?
How many sessions per calendar year does my plan cover? Are there any limitations?
Do I need a pre-authorization?
How much does my insurance pay for an out-of-network provider?
Is coverage based on a “usual and customary rate” or “allowed amount” for CPT code 90837 (53+ minute Individual Session) and 90791 (Intake Appointment), or the full rate that the therapist charges? If it’s the usual and customary rate/allowed amount, ask what that amount is.
**I would be sure to note that I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist - Insurance companies have different reimbursement rates for different degree levels.
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My fee is $200 per hour. I offer sliding scale options when I have them available. Feel free to ask me.
Additionally, I work with Thrizer, a platform that helps clients obtain out-of-network benefits for therapy sessions. If you have out-of-network benefits, Thrizer will file claims and handle the insurance paperwork and all you have to pay for sessions if your out-of-network copay. They charge you the client a 5% fee per claim and charge me the therapist a 3% processing fee. Thrizer’s service is HIPAA compliant. You can sign up using this link:
Note: Thrizer’s goal is to save you time and money. It's completely optional, and as your therapist I do not benefit in any way from your participation.
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This is dependent on your unique situation and desires. You may be wanting relief or symptom reduction - this may take a few weeks to 6 months. If you're going to engage in transforming deeper and long-standing patterns, therapy may take longer.
You get what you give out of it though. It’s important to remember that I can’t do the work for you. I’m here as your guide and will support you every step of the way, but ultimately, you’re the one who has to do the work.
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For the most benefit, once a week is optimal. Therapy that happens less than once a week becomes more like putting out fires than actually getting to long-lasting change. However, many people find bi-weekly appointments work well for them too.
Please keep in mind that if you want to build strength, you would not lift weights once a month and expect much progress. Similarly, attending to your mind, body, spirit health regularly and consistently is vital in cultivating resiliency and experiencing the growth and change you seek.
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I offer evening appointments Monday-Thursday on a first come first serve basis.
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Click Here to schedule a free 20-minute consultation.