Frequently Asked
Questions

If you don’t see any answer to a question you may have, please call or email and I’ll be sure to help you out!

How do I get Started?

Step 1: Reach out either by the portal, email or phone call and schedule a free 15-minute consultation where we will discuss your needs and reasons you feels counseling is right for you. During this conversation my goal is that you are relaxed and have a comfortable feeling as you can make sure you feel we are a good fit. Being comfortable and relaxed with your therapists is the first part of having a strong therapeutic relationship. During this time you can ask me any questions you may have about the process, discuss and verify financial details, or discuss any other concerns you may have.

Step 2: We will then make an appointment, I will give you access to the online portal. This portal allows you to schedule, reschedule, cancel your sessions. You can also communicate with me through a HIPPA complaint messaging application. You will complete all the necessary forms for the initial intake and sign electronically that you are in agreement with all the given policies and procedures.

Step 3: Paperwork – I ask that you complete all of the paperwork at least 48 hours before you session which will give me time to review and ensure I am prepared for our session.

Step 4 First Session –

During the therapy sessions you and I will have a conversation and I will ask questions to gain a better understanding of what brought you to seek therapy and ensure that I understand your needs. This session is a great time for you to ask any questions you may have about me including background, therapeutic styles, and my qualifications.

The questions that I ask during the intake process are to better understand you as a person, and how you interact with the world and people around you. To better understand your situation and factors that may have an impact on how you function. You are free to not answer any question I may ask if you are not comfortable answering.

At the end of the session we will develop a goal for treatment and create a treatment plan together so you will have a strong sense of the direction your treatment will take in order to help you meet your stated goal for therapy.

What Insurances do you take?
Blue Cross Blue Shield 
Independent Health
Univera 
Amerigroup
If you have an insurance company not listed, please check with them for out-of-network benefits, we can discuss how this works when you speak
Self-pay
What payment do you accept?
Cash

Check

MasterCard

Visa

American Express

Discover

FSA/HSA

How do I contact you?
Reach out by phone (716)-202-8877, email Matthewdavis@matthewdavislcsw.com, or through the client portal
Where do I find the paperwork needed for our first session?
How long is therapy usually?
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is just that a relationship. The answer to how long someone is in therapy is very individualized and depends on many factors including the commitment you have to change and the change process, the severity of your symptoms and or situation, as well as what you are looking to change in your life. Typlically clients stay in treatment anywhere from 9-18 months. Once you meet your goals I prepare you for termination which is a time period where you live your life with the changes you made in therapy and apply the skills you have learned. I am always available if you wish to return in the future. It is common for someone to return to therapy later in life 1-2 years after having a success therapy experience. These are called episodes of care.
What is the cancellation policy?

To cancel please inform me at least 24 Business hours in advance. If your session is scheduled for Monday you must cancel by Friday. 

 

If you cancel less than 24 hours there is a $75 fee. This will not be charged to you if I am able to fill the appointment time. 

 

If you miss the session the fee is $100

What is telehealth?

Telehealth is the delivery of healthcare services (in this case mental health therapy) through the use of technology. Telehealth allows for remote access and live interactions between you, the client, and myself. Telehealth services are available to anyone located in the State of New York and does not require you to come into the office. I use two way visual audio communication through SimplePractice called Telehealth by SimplePractice (think FaceTime). This is a HIPPA compliant platform and can be used on a computer, smart phone or tablet. All that is required is a private location, a devise with working camera and sound (computer, smartphone, or tablet), and a solid internet connection. 

How do I schedule an appt?
Much do your sessions cost?
Session cost depends on your individual insurance plans. Please check with your insurance plan for outpatient mental health services for copay and/or deductible information.

Self pay fee schedule is as follows

Initial assessment $180

1 hour session $170

45 minute session $145

30 minute session $85

Your healing starts here