Frequently Asked Questions
DO YOU TAKE INSURANCE?
We do take insurance for therapy. We do not take insurance for psychological testing.
In New York, we accept: Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS), Oscar, United Healthcare and Oxford. To request an appointment with one of these coverages, please use the following link:
https://headway.co/providers/tanya-dwyer-masin
In Texas, we accept Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) and Cigna.
We are also able to provider superbills for out of network reimbursement, whereby your insurance will reimburse you for a portion of your cost. We also accept direct payment via credit card, Zelle and Health/Flex Spending Accounts.
HOW DO I MAKE AN APPOINTMENT?
In New York, feel free to make an initial therapy appointment online via https://headway.co/providers/tanya-dwyer-masin. For testing and Texas patients, please contact our office via email, text or phone.
Only parents or legal guardians are able to schedule initial appointments. Minors whose parents' share legal custody, are separated or are in the process of a divorce must both provide consent prior to treatment.
CAN I TALK WITH SOMEONE BEFORE DECIDING TO SCHEDULE?
If you have any questions, you can call the office and speak with our intake coordinator. You can also email or text us with any questions.
WHEN IS PAYMENT DUE AND WHAT FORM OF PAYMENT DO YOU ACCEPT?
For therapy, payments and copays are billed after the session is held by the payment method on file. For evaluations, a non-refundable $250 deposit is required to secure your interview appointment. Afterwards, 50% of the remaining balance is deposit is due upon scheduling the first test session. The rest is due at the feedback session.
HOW LONG AND WHEN WILL I FEEL BETTER?
Therapy sessions are generally 1x per week and typically last between 40-55 minutes depending on the age and needs of the patient. Most patients will report some improvement within 8-12 sessions, but this can be longer or shorter depending on the needs of the individual. Evaluations generally take one to six weeks to complete with comprehensive assessments typically scheduled across multiple days.
DO YOU PRESCRIBE MEDICATION?
No. Referrals and consultation with medical providers about psychological symptoms can be arranged upon request.
CANCELLATION/NO SHOW POLICY: WHAT IF I NEED TO CANCEL AN APPOINTMENT OR AM RUNNING LATE?
Please notify the office or utilize the various appointment confirmation options to cancel your appointment at least 48 business hours (8-4pm CT) in advance if you are unable to attend. Late cancellations and/or no shows with less than 48 hours will incur a $50 administration fee to cover time spent. Cancellations with less than 24 hours will incur the full cost of the session with a minimum fee of $150. Repeated occurrences may be grounds for discontinuation. Similarly, lateness of more than10 minutes will be considered a late cancelled appointment unless prior arrangements are made with your therapist. Please remember that we cannot bill insurance for missed or "half" sessions and set aside a full therapy hour per patient. Please be respectful of your therapist's time.
WHAT ARE YOUR HOURS?
We offer morning, afternoon and early evening sessions to work around your schedule. Evaluations are generally scheduled during the day for the most accurate performance results. We do our best to schedule appointments around school, but all appointments are considered excused absences, and a school excuse note will be provided as needed.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THERAPY AND COUNSELING?
Therapy, sometimes referred to as psychotherapy, involves more than just talking and listening. Your doctor will employ a research-supported, structured approach, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), or another method best suited to your individual needs. These techniques are designed to identify and address thought distortions that contribute to depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders.
Many patients are pleased to find that skills-based therapy reduces symptoms, helps them resolve issues, and promotes significant change, rather than just "venting" to someone who will listen. While counseling can be beneficial for those with mild symptoms or those seeking a sympathetic ear, we advise patients to research and determine which credentials and approaches are most important to them.
RESOURCES
Special Education Parent Rights
Texas
https://tea.texas.gov/academics/special-student-populations/special-education
New York
http://www.p12.nysed.gov/specialed/publications/policy/parentsguide.pdf
Crisis Resources
If you, your child, or someone you know is in crisis, call 911, go to the nearest emergency room, or reach out to the following national resources. You’re never alone.
☏ Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to reach a 24-hour crisis center
☏ Text 741741 to reach the Crisis Text Line.