RYAN PERISHO, MS, LMFT
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a psychotherapist?
The American Psychological Association (APA) defines psychotherapy as a psychological service that uses communication and interaction to assess, diagnose, and treat dysfunctional behavior patterns, ways of thinking, and emotional reactions. The APA defines a psychotherapist as a trained professional with specialized education and experience in understanding psychological problems. Licensed psychotherapists in California must complete a Masters degree in an accredited program, finish a multi-year 3,000 hour associateship working under the supervision of a licensed clinician, and pass two rigorous licensure exams.
I received my Master's of Science Degree in Psychology is from California Polytechnic State University, and following several years of supervised clinical training I obtained my Marriage and Family Therapist License (#116569). I remain committed to consistent continuing education, obtain hours of annual continuing eduction credits annually, engage in ongoing clinical consultation, and dedicate myself to professional as well as personal growth.
I am a member of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists, governed by the Board of Behavioral Sciences. Additional training and certifications include Gottman Couples Level 1 and 2 Training, Certified Domestic Violence Therapist, as well as extensive Trauma Informed Therapist training certificates.
What is the cost of therapy?
My rate is comparable to the average fees for similar services in the Bay Area. Fee for a 50 minute individual session is $220; Fee for a 50 minute family or couples session is $240. We can discuss 75 minute family or couples session on an individualized basis. Payment options include cash, checks, credit cards, and FSA/HSA cards.
I reserve a limited number of sliding scale spots for clients on an as needed basis, based on individual financial situations. Please inquire directly for more information.
Do you take insurance?
I choose to not be in-network on insurance plans. If you have out-of-network benefits on your insurance plan, I am able to provide a billing statement ("superbill") for you to submit to your insurance company. If you are interested in this option, you can call your insurance company directly to see if you have out-of-network benefits and are eligible for reimbursement. Questions that may be helpful to ask your insurance include how many sessions they cover, how much they will reimburse, what the mental health deductible is, what treatment information is required and how it will be handled.
There are several factors to consider when making the choice to use or forgo health coverage for mental health treatment. Some choose to forgo their insurance coverage for mental health services for several reasons, including:
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No formal psychiatric diagnosis: Insurance companies require therapy to be "medically necessary", meaning treatment must address a formal mental health diagnosis. Many people who benefit from therapy do not meet criteria for a mental health diagnosis, including those who are seeking therapy for personal growth, normal life stressors, and self-improvement, and thus would not be eligible for insurance coverage.
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Confidentiality concerns: In order for services to be covered by insurance, a formal psychiatric diagnosis and other information must be provided to the insurance company. This includes clients authorizing release of their private health information to the insurance company. Once this information is released to insurance it is on the client's permanent record, and both therapist and client do not have control over what is done with this information. Paying privately is a way to maximize confidentiality.
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Desire for specialized care: Using in-network services limits the choice of therapists to those who are contracted within the insurance company, and of those, only the therapists with openings for new clients.
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Control over treatment: Health insurances can audit client files, including seeking clinical notes to ensure services are medically necessary, in addition to formal diagnosis and private health information already provided. When using in-network coverage, insurance companies may have requirements regarding length of treatment, number of sessions, focus of treatment, which problems are addressed, and when services should end. Paying privately is a way to ensure having control over services received.
I recognize the decision to use or forgo insurance benefits for therapist is a personal one. I welcome discussion around these matters.
What is the cancellation policy?
48 hour cancellation policy: If you need to cancel or reschedule your session, please contact me 48 hours before the appointment to avoid charges.