frequently asked questions
Sometimes just having some answers about the logistics & the process of therapy can help you take the next step. Our hope is that this section will help with just that.
1
How Do Free Consultations Calls Work?
Many Great Oaks therapists offer free consultation calls to anyone looking for therapy services. Regardless of who you speak with, the therapist will answer any questions you have and share general information about the therapy process. The goal of the consultation call is to get you connected with a therapist who will meet your need (financially, scheduling-wise, type of therapy offered, style of therapy, etc). If we don't have someone here who will meet your need, we will offer referrals to other therapists outside of Great Oaks. More information about preparing for Consultation Calls below.
2
How Much Does Therapy Cost?
Great Oaks Therapy Center is a private group practice offering private pay services. This means that while we do not accept insurance, we do offer a wide range of fees, all which are listed under each individual therapists profile pages. We also have several graduate student therapists who all charge $50 per session. Also, some Great Oaks therapists offer "superbills" that can be submitted to your insurance for potential reimbursement. Check with your individual therapist if that is something you are interested in. We accept all major credit cards, debit cards, cash, check, and HSA/FSA.
3
Can Therapists Prescribe Medication?
No. All of our therapists are in the counseling/therapy field and cannot prescribe medications. If you are in need of a medication refill or a new medication, please contact your medical provider. We can coordinate care with your medication provider as requested.
4
What Can I Expect My First Session?
Generally, first sessions with therapists are information gathering sessions. Your therapist will discuss, at your comfort level, your reason for seeking therapy, goals for therapy, and answer any questions you might have about the process. Your therapist will also review office policies, confidentiality, and informed consent.
It is important to us that you feel a good connection with your therapist. If after a few sessions you do not feel it is a good fit, please do not hesitate to work with your therapist who can offer referrals to other providers!
5
How Long Do Sessions Last?
Several factors are involved in answering this question well. Your reasons for seeking therapy, your availability for sessions, and what services your therapist offers. Traditionally, therapy sessions last 50 minutes. However, there are times when longer (or even shorter) sessions might be more helpful. Your therapist will discuss options with you and work with you to identify a frequency and length of session that will be most conducive to your needs.
6
Do You Offer Sliding Scale Options?
Many of our therapists do have a limited number of sliding scale spots. Some indicate that on their profile pages. You can always ask a therapist if they have availability for a sliding scale spot. If they don't, they can refer you to another therapist who has a fee that is more feasible for you.
Another option for affordable care is working with one of our well-trained graduate student therapists who each charge $50 per session. Learn more about those offerings here:
7
Do You Take Insurance?
Great Oaks does not take insurance. However, we do offer a wide range of session fees and many of our therapists can provide you with a superbill to submit to your insurance company for potential reimbursement. We accept payment in the form of cash, check, credit/debit, and HSA/FSA. See individual therapists profile pages for more details about session fees.
8
Where Are You Located?
Great Oaks is located in the Westport area of Kansas City. Situated on the second floor directly above a restaurant called "The Pressed Penny". The entrance is directly to the left of the entrance to The Pressed Penny (when facing the building). Enter that door, come upstairs, and wait in our lobby. We unfortunately do not have an elevator so if you have any mobility-related issues please contact your therapist to discuss virtual options.
No Surprises Act
In compliance with the No Surprises Act that goes into effect January 1, 2022, all healthcare providers are required to notify clients of their Federal rights and protections against “surprise billing.”
This Act requires that we notify you of your federally protected rights to receive a notification when services are rendered by an out-of-network provider, if a client is uninsured, or if a client elects not to use their insurance.
Additionally, we are required to provide you with a Good Faith Estimate of the cost of services upon request and/or prior to your scheduled appointment. Although it is difficult to determine the true length of treatment for mental health care as each client has a right to decide how long they would like to participate in mental health care, a good faith estimate will be provided and reassessed as needed.
Your Rights Under This New Act:
-
You have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” explaining how much your medical care will cost. Under the law, healthcare providers need to give patients who don’t have insurance or who are not using insurance an estimate of the bill for medical items and services.
-
You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency items or services. This includes related costs like medical tests, prescription drugs, equipment, and hospital fees.
-
Make sure your healthcare provider gives you a Good Faith Estimate in writing at least 1 business day before your medical service or item. You can also ask your healthcare provider, and any other provider you choose, for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule an item or service.
-
If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can dispute the bill.
-
Make sure to save a copy or picture of your Good Faith Estimate.
For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises or call 1-800-985-3059.