Frequently Asked QuestionsFrequently Asked Questions About Virtual Therapy in California & Idaho
Your Questions, Answered
Starting therapy brings up logistical questions as much as emotional ones. Below are answers to the questions we hear most — about scheduling, cost, insurance, and what to expect along the way. If you don't see your question here, reach out; we're happy to help.
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The therapists at Mealer Family Therapy each maintain their own schedule. Weekend and evening appointments may be available, depending on the therapist. Please ask about availability directly with the therapist you're interested in working with.
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All individual sessions are 45 minutes long and are scheduled weekly.
For couples and family sessions, the therapist may offer a 60 minute session depending on scheduling and availability.
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In response to COVID-19, Mealer Family Therapy transitioned to online therapy using a HIPAA-compliant video platform that is accessible from any phone, tablet, or computer. It's given us the greatest assurance that therapy can continue as safely as possible for everyone involved. It's been a meaningful shift overall — the connection between you and your therapist remains personal, confidential, and safe.
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Mealer Family Therapy is an out-of-network provider for PPO insurance plans. Payment for each session is charged that week to the credit card kept securely on file. Every two weeks, we electronically submit that month's sessions directly to your insurance company, who may reimburse you according to your plan's benefits. If you have questions about your specific coverage, please contact your insurance company directly to ask about your out-of-network benefits. The procedure code used for services is 90834 (Psychotherapy, 45 minutes) and 90837 (Psychotherapy, 60 minutes).
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We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, and HSA or FSA cards. Your payment method is stored securely in your electronic health record, and your card is charged within the calendar week of each session.
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You may cancel an appointment up to 24 hours before its scheduled start at no charge. Cancellations made within 24 hours of the appointment will be charged the full session fee to the card on file. Please note that insurance plans do not reimburse for canceled sessions, since no service was rendered.
Additional FAQs
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Many times people seek out therapy when life becomes too much. But you don't have to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. If you notice the same patterns, worries, or conflicts showing up again and again — or if you simply want more clarity, connection, or peace in your life — that's reason enough to start.
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The first session is mostly about getting to know each other. Your therapist will ask about what brought you in, your history, and what you're hoping to get out of therapy. There's no pressure to have it all figured out — this is simply the beginning of a conversation.
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It depends on you, your goals, and what you're working through — there's no prescriptive timeline. Some people come for a specific season of life; others continue longer-term. Whatever you are looking to work on, the most important factor to successful therapy is your relationship with your therapist. As any relationship builds, we would suggest that when starting with a therapist, give it 4-6 sessions before evaluating whether it feels like the right fit and pace for you.
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In almost all cases, yes. Therapists are legally and ethically bound to confidentiality. There are a few specific exceptions required by law — such as concerns about safety to yourself or others, or suspected abuse of a child, elder, or dependent adult. Your therapist will walk you through these limits clearly at the start of treatment.