Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which therapist to choose?
The right "fit" is important to get the most out of therapy. Each client has different needs based on their reasons for treatment, availability, and preferences. You can read more about our therapists backgrounds, training, and specialties on our Clinicians page.
When you call to set up an initial appointment, you will be asked to provide a brief description of your situation and counseling needs. You can request a specific therapist if you have been referred to someone or choose a counselor based on their Bio and believe they would be a good fit. Otherwise, a counselor will be recommended that has the knowledge and experience to meet your therapy needs.
An initial session will be scheduled with your counselor at that time.
What should I expect before my initial appointment?
After you schedule your initial session, you will receive an email with a link to our confidential client portal where you will review and complete our online paperwork prior to your appointment.
Intake forms include our Practice Policies, Notice of Privacy Practices, Informed Consent, Demographic Form, a short Intake Questionnaire, a Consent to Telehealth*, and a Credit Card Authorization Form**
* For In Person clients, the Telehealth Consent Form is used in the event that a session needs to switch to Telehealth due to weather or other circumstances.
** A Credit Card Authorization Form is securely kept on file to ensure payment for services. Clients can also pay by CASH or CHECK if they prefer.
What should I expect during the 1st session?
During the intake session, a therapeutic relationship begins to form. Your therapist will gather background information and ask what prompted you to start counseling. You and your therapist will identify initial goals for treatment and you will be able to ask any questions you may have.
How often do I meet with my therapist?
Research has shown that meeting weekly, especially in the beginning of treatment, is the most effective. The "therapeutic week" provides the ideal amount of time for clients to meet, process their challenges, identify new skills to implement, then practice those skills for 7-10 days before returning for another session and repeating the process. Depending on what a client is working on and their available time, sessions can be scheduled weekly or monthly when agreed upon by the client and therapist.
Why do you not take insurance (Out of Network)?
Loudoun Counseling Services is an Out of Network provider. The reimbursement rate for In Network providers is far below the average billable rate for therapists. Being Out of Network allows LCS to offer the highest quality of services by top performing clinicians. In addition, insurance companies can limit treatment by reviewing services provided and making clinical decisions, such as the number of sessions allowed. LCS is committed to ensuring high quality, personalized care that allows clients to meet all of their treatment needs in the time frame needed.
How does billing work?
Clients are billed at the time of service. Clients can pay by cash, check, credit card, or HSA/FSA debit card (when possible). Checks are made out to Loudoun Counseling Services, LLC.
LCS does not accept insurance reimbursement as a direct form of payment. Clients are provided a Superbill (receipt) at the end of every month that includes all of the information needed to submit an Out of Network claim to their insurance for reimbursement. The insurance company will send any reimbursement allowed directly to the client. LCS recommends you review your Out of Network benefits and call your insurance company to verify prior to your initial session.
What is your Cancellation Policy?
When you schedule an appointment with your therapist, that time slot will be reserved for you. There are often other clients that would like to schedule for that time. Therefore, all appointments must be cancelled 24 hours in advance. Late cancellations will be charged the full appointment fee. Appointments rescheduled more than 24 hours in advance will not be charged a cancellation fee.
Good Faith Estimate
Under Section 2799B-6 of the Public Service Act, clients have the right to receive a "Good Faith Estimate" for services.
For questions or more information about your right to a "Good Faith Estimate," visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises
LCS fees vary based on length and type of service and each clinician's level of training. Example:
Individual Therapy, 50 minutes, 90837 (In Person) or 90837-95 (Telehealth): $100-$200/50-minute session.