FAQ
Where are you located?
I provide virtual Teletherapy to anyone physically located in California.
How long is each session?
Initial assessments are 60 minutes (this will be your first therapy session). Ongoing therapy sessions are 45-50 minutes.
How do I get started?
Contact me by phone at (559) 977-8489 or email at abernal@rhcounseling.live.
We will set up a complimentary phone consultation to explore if we’ll be a good fit. If I cannot provide you with the support you need, I will refer you to someone who specializes in your area of need.
Once we commit to working together, we will choose a weekly or bi-weekly recurring appointment time for our sessions.
How do I pay?
Before your first session, you receive a text message to set up an account through a HIPAA-compliant platform. This platform will store a form of payment that will stay on file and receive a charge before your appointment.
Do you accept insurance?
I am not in-network with any insurance companies. But I can provide you a “Superbill” to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement if you have any out-of-network coverage.
What is your cancellation policy?
Renewed Hope Counseling requires a 24-hour cancellation notice. Anything less than 24 hours is subject to the full session fee. Session fees are due at the beginning of the day of your scheduled session.
Who are your clients?
I see individuals ages 12 and up.
What can I expect from my first appointment?
Your first session is an initial assessment. A thorough psychosocial assessment explores what brought you to therapy, including discussing your symptoms, concerns, behaviors, and history. Together, we will create goals for your therapy journey.
How often are sessions scheduled?
Typically, we schedule sessions once each week and work toward titrating down to bi-weekly sessions and full termination. We will work together to determine the frequency of sessions based on your needs and goals.
How long will I need to be in therapy?
Everyone’s journey is unique. Some people come with a specific goal in mind, and once they meet that goal, they are ready to terminate. Others may need ongoing support and a long therapeutic relationship.
You and I will work together to determine progress toward goals and the ability to graduate from the therapy process.
Do you prescribe medications?
No, a therapist is not licensed to prescribe medications. If I determine that medication would be beneficial, I will refer you to a doctor or psychiatrist.
Why Teletherapy?
Convenience – You can choose where your sessions occur, and there is no commute.
Comfortable – You can have your sessions in the comfort of your home while dressed in your PJs. You also can have sessions in your office during your lunch break. Show up to your session wherever and however you feel best.
Confidential – I use a HIPAA-compliant video platform for all sessions, and I work out of a confidential space.
Quality Assurance – Online therapy is as effective as in-person therapy.
Are there any things I can’t do with Teletherapy?
For your safety, we cannot have sessions if you are driving. You must either pull over or reschedule for another time.
You must be located physically in California during our sessions. If you travel outside of California, you will need to reschedule our session for when you are back.
Telehealth is not appropriate for everyone. We will determine together if Teletherapy is a good fit for you.