Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about intake, insurance, therapies, or anything else? Find answers here.

People raising hands to ask questions of a presenter.
  • What is Thrizer, and How Does it Make Out of Network Expert Care – Affordable?!

    Out-of-Network Doesn’t Mean Out-of-Reach

    At Darby Integrative Counseling, we understand that insurance and billing can be a barrier to starting therapy. That’s why we’ve partnered with Thrizer.com, a modern platform that makes using your out-of-network benefits easy, fast, and transparent. Clients are often surprised at how affordable services are with out-of-network benefits often reimbursing clients 60-80% of session costs. Life Altering Expert Therapy, at a Cost that Doesn’t Break the Bank!

    Book Your Free 15 Min Consult to Explore Boutique-Care, with an Affordable Price Tag!

    Whether you’re hoping to reduce your costs, navigate your benefits, or avoid paperwork altogether—we’re here to support you every step of the way.

    💡 With Thrizer, many of our clients get reimbursements that have them paying as little as $25–$80 per session after deductible.


    What is Thrizer?

    Thrizer is a payment platform designed to simplify the financial aspects of out-of-network therapy. It connects with clients’ health insurance plans to automatically submit claims and handle reimbursements. Clients can instantly verify their out-of-network benefits, understand their coverage, and start paying for therapy with Thrizer.

    Questions? We are here to help: Book Your Free 15 Min Consult

    Is Thrizer secure and private?

    Yes, Thrizer is fully HIPAA compliant, meaning it follows strict security and privacy regulations to protect your personal health information. All financial transactions and insurance interactions are handled securely, ensuring that your data remains confidential.

    How does using Thrizer benefit me as a client?

    By using Thrizer, you can experience a payment structure similar to in-network copays, even when working with out-of-network therapists. The elimination of the need to navigate complex insurance claims and wait for reimbursements. Thrizer handles the insurance process, allowing you to focus on your therapy without added financial stress.


    🌟 How It Works with Thrizer

    1. Book a Free Consult – We’ll help you verify your out-of-network mental health benefits and provide a personalized cost estimate. Then we will send you an invite to Thrizer!
    2. Sign Up with Thrizer – It’s free and only takes a few minutes. They’ll instantly pull your insurance benefits details estimates, for you!
    3. ThrizerPay-Only Pay What You Owe – For a 5% fee, some clients have the option to pay only their estimated coinsurance (not the full session fee!). We can answer questions on your consult call.
    4. Thrizer Submits Superbills For You – Thrizer will submit your Superbills for you. No forms, codes, or follow-ups needed! For only 1% of your claim amount
    5. Thrizer Provides Superbill Tracking – Thrizer handles the work to get you reimbursed! Follow-ups, and tracking done for you. Any Superbill questions are answered quickly by contacting Help@Thrizer.com.
    6. Get Paid Back Automatically – Once your claim is approved, your insurance sends the reimbursement directly to your bank account (minus the 1% fee).

    Book Your Free 15 Min Consult to Explore How to Get Boutique-Care, with an Affordable Price Tag!


    ✨ Therapy That’s Worth It—and Within Reach

    We believe that quality care should be available to more people—not just those using in-network providers. With the right tools and support, you can access boutique-quality therapy with transparent costs and full control of your coverage. Book Your Free 15 Min Consult, Today

    📧 Have insurance or billing questions? Reach out to Our Operations Lead Joseph: joseph@darby-integrative-counseling.com

    Ready to get started? Book your Free Consult Today & Experience the Darby Difference


  • Insurance and Billing- What does my insurance cover for Out of Network or Self Pay Sessions?

    Out-of-Network Doesn’t Mean Out-of-Reach

    At Darby Integrative Counseling, we understand that insurance and billing can be a barrier to starting therapy. That’s why we’ve partnered with Thrizer.com, a modern platform that makes using your out-of-network benefits easy, fast, and transparent. Clients are often surprised at how affordable services are with out-of-network benefits often reimbursing clients 60-80% of session costs. Life Altering Expert Therapy, at a Cost that Doesn’t Break the Bank!

    Book Your Free 15 Min Consult to Explore Boutique-Care, with an Affordable Price Tag!

    Whether you’re hoping to reduce your costs, navigate your benefits, or avoid paperwork altogether—we’re here to support you every step of the way.

    💡 With Thrizer, many of our clients get reimbursements that have them paying as little as $25–$80 per session after deductible.


    🌟 How It Works with Thrizer

    1. Book a Free Consult – We’ll help you verify your out-of-network mental health benefits and provide a personalized cost estimate. Then we will send you an invite to Thrizer!
    2. Sign Up with Thrizer – It’s free and only takes a few minutes. They’ll instantly pull your insurance benefits details estimates, for you!
    3. ThrizerPay-Only Pay What You Owe – For a 5% fee, some clients have the option to pay only their estimated coinsurance (not the full session fee!). We can answer questions on your consult call.
    4. Thrizer Submits Superbills For You – Thrizer will submit your Superbills for you. No forms, codes, or follow-ups needed! For only 1% of your claim amount
    5. Thrizer Provides Superbill Tracking – Thrizer handles the work to get you reimbursed! Follow-ups, and tracking done for you. Any Superbill questions are answered quickly by contacting Help@Thrizer.com.
    6. Get Paid Back Automatically – Once your claim is approved, your insurance sends the reimbursement directly to your bank account (minus the 1% fee).

    Book Your Free 15 Min Consult to Explore How to Get Boutique-Care, with an Affordable Price Tag!


    📌 Questions to Ask Your Insurance (If You Prefer to Call Yourself):

    To get the most accurate information about your out-of-network benefits, ask your insurance company the following:

    • Do I have Out-of-Network Mental Health benefits?
    • What is my Out-of-Network deductible?
    • How much of my deductible has been met?
    • What is the allowed amount for psychotherapy?
    • What is my coinsurance rate or copay?
    • Are virtual therapy sessions covered?
    • Do I need preauthorization?
    • How many sessions are covered each year?
    • Is a referral required from my primary doctor?

    Therapy CPT Codes:

    • 90834 / 90837 – Individual sessions
    • 90846 / 90847 – Family or couples therapy
    • 90791 – Intake evaluation

    🧾 Not Using Thrizer? You Can Still Submit Manually

    If you’d prefer to submit superbills yourself, we’ll provide itemized receipts after each session. You can submit these directly to your insurance.


    ✨ Therapy That’s Worth It—and Within Reach

    We believe that quality care should be available to more people—not just those using in-network providers. With the right tools and support, you can access boutique-quality therapy with transparent costs and full control of your coverage. Book Your Free 15 Min Consult, Today

    📧 Have insurance or billing questions? Reach out to Our Operations Lead Joseph: joseph@darby-integrative-counseling.com

    Ready to get started? Book your Free Consult Today & Experience the Darby Difference


  • Darby Integrative Counseling: Fees & Services Overview

    At Darby Integrative Counseling, we believe in transparency and fairness when it comes to our fee structure for psychotherapy and auxillary services. We are committed to providing high-quality care that is tailored to meet your individual needs. Below, you’ll find an overview of our fee structure, payment options, and additional services offered. We aim to make mental health care accessible, clear, and straightforward for all clients.

    Fee Structure Overview

    Our fees are based on the therapist’s level of licensure, experience, and specialized certifications. As therapists grow in expertise, their fees adjust accordingly, ensuring that clients benefit from expertly trained staff who provide high-quality service. The fees apply to the following therapy services:

    • Individual Therapy (90837) – 53-minute session
    • Couples & Family Therapy (90847) – 53-minute session
    • Initial Intake Assessment (90791) – 60-minute session
    • Group Therapy Sessions (varied by type and length)

    Fee Structure by Licensure & Certification

    We have developed a progressive fee structure based on the therapist’s licensure and certifications. This structure ensures that as therapists advance in their careers, clients are receiving services from qualified professionals while maintaining affordable options for everyone. These rates are typical and may be higher depending on the specific provider you are referred to based on expertise and training.

    Pre-Licensed Psychotherapist Under Supervision (e.g., LGPC, LMSW)

    • Without Advanced Certifications
      • Individual Therapy: $155
      • Couples & Family Therapy: $165
      • Intake Assessment: $195
      • Group Therapy (60 min): $40
    • With Advanced Certifications (e.g., EMDR-trained, Gottman Level 1)
      • Individual Therapy: $165
      • Couples & Family Therapy: $180
      • Intake Assessment: $205
      • Specialized Group Therapy (75 min): $65

    Independently Licensed Psychotherapist (e.g., LCPC, LCSW-C, LMFT)

    • Without Advanced Certifications (0-24 months licensed)
      • Individual Therapy: $175
      • Couples & Family Therapy: $190
      • Intake Assessment: $215
      • Group Therapy (60 min): $65
    • With Advanced Certifications (e.g., EMDR, Gottman Level 2)
      • Individual Therapy: $185
      • Couples & Family Therapy: $205
      • Intake Assessment: $225
      • Specialized Group Therapy (75 min): $80

    Experienced Psychotherapist (2+ years independently licensed)

    • Without Advanced Certifications
      • Individual Therapy: $195
      • Couples & Family Therapy: $210
      • Intake Assessment: $250
      • Group Therapy (60 min): $90
    • With Advanced Certifications (e.g., EMDR-certified, Gottman Level 3)
      • Individual Therapy: $205
      • Couples & Family Therapy: $220
      • Intake Assessment: $260
      • Specialized Group Therapy (75 min): $105

    Intern/Graduate-Level Professional Student Therapist (Under Supervision)

    • Individual Therapy: $90
    • Couples & Family Therapy: $110
    • Intake Assessment: $125
    • Group Therapy (60 min): $30
    • Specialized Group Therapy (75 min): $55
    • Sliding scale is available based on financial need

    Additional Service Fees

    In addition to standard psychotherapy services, additional fees may apply including but not limited to:

    • Extended Individual Therapy (90 min): $250 – $300
    • Court Testimony & Documentation: $250 per hour
    • Emergency Phone Calls: $250 per hour
    • Late Cancellation (less than 48 hours): $150
    • No-Show Fee: $150
    • Report/Letter Writing: $100 per hour

    Annual Fee Reviews and Adjustments

    To ensure that our fees are competitive and align with industry standards in Montgomery County, MD, we conduct an annual review of our rates. Adjustments are made to account for inflation each year and are implemented on January 1. Our therapists will notify clients about any changes ahead of time.

    Client Payment & Insurance Reimbursement

    Payment is due at the time of service. We accept various payment methods through our platform, Thrizer, including:

    • Credit cards
    • HSA/FSA cards

    For clients seeking out-of-network reimbursement, superbills will be submitted for them upon request.

    Important Notes Regarding Therapist Rates

    Certain therapists, depending on their location, expertise, training, and experience, may charge different rates than what is outlined above. These adjustments will be communicated to clients prior to the beginning of therapy.

    No Surprises Act & Good Faith Estimate

    Under the No Surprises Act, we are required to provide a Good Faith Estimate of the costs of your care. This includes details about the expected charges for your sessions, which will be shared with you before beginning treatment. You have the right to request and receive an estimate of the charges for services from us.

    For more information, please visit the government websites on these requirements:

    Summary

    Our fee structure at Darby Integrative Counseling is designed to ensure you receive high-quality, professional care tailored to your needs while maintaining transparency and fairness. We are committed to helping you achieve your mental health goals in an affordable and accessible manner.

    If you have any questions about our fees or services, please contact Joseph Avizad, Operations Lead, at joseph@darby-integrative-counseling.com.

  • What insurance plans do you accept?

    All therapists at the practice are out of network with all other insurance companies and plans. Please check each therapist’s page for more information on their participation with insurance.

    Therapists can offer clients assistance as needed with:

    • seeking out-of-network reimbursement
    • providing information on how clients can seek single-case agreements to utilize their in-network benefits with out of network providers!
    • submitting claims with their out-of-network insurance plan
    • exploring payment plans to make treatment accessible

    For clients who have no insurance, therapists may offer a need-based sliding scale fee structure that is based on financial necessity and clinical need.

    If you have any specific questions about insurance or payment, these questions will be answered and explored during the initial phone consultation and during the intake appointment. You will never obtain a surprise bill for sessions.

  • What is the intake process for new client?

    After completing your new client intake questionnaire, we will match you via email with a therapist who can serve your needs.

    Therapists typically schedule a 15 minute consultation call prior to making an appointment with you to ensure you feel it is the best fit. During that call, the therapist will identify your needs and discuss any questions you may have. They will give a brief overview of ways they can help and schedule an appointment as soon as possible.

    Prior to intake, the therapist will ask you to sign up for the client portal, and request that you fill out any needed intake forms prior to the session. This process is to ensure your first session does not include filling out needed disclosures and forms. You will receive an appointment reminder email 3 days prior to your scheduled appointment.

    During intake, the therapist will explore your reasons for seeking treatment, your clinical history, provide you treatment options, and explore your goals for treatment. Insurance information will be obtained, payment options for treatment will be explored, and payment for the session will be collected.

  • What is the mission of Darby Integrative Counseling?

    Our mission at Darby Integrative Counseling is to connect clients to providers who are compassionate, dedicated, and scholarly. We believe in contracting with the highest quality providers who utilize cutting edge techniques to assist clients in their healing and growth!

    No matter your race, gender, sexual orientation, political affiliation, neurogenetic proclivity, or any other status or characteristic, we invite you into this safe space to find transformation, growth, acceptance, love, and healing. Come as you are and be celebrated for being uniquely and perfectly, you!

    Get connected with a provider today to begin your healing journey.

  • What services do you offer?

    Each independent therapist you are referred to offers individualized care utilizing a variety of specialized techniques. Darby Integrative Counseling has contracted with an array of therapists who offer individual, group, and couples counseling. Services are offered to clients of all backgrounds, with particular care and support provided to each client, no matter their individual circumstance. Types of therapy range greatly including ACT, CBT, DBT, EMDR, Psychodynamic, Mind Body Therapies, Somatic Motor Psychotherapy, Motivational Interviewing, Substance Abuse Treatment and more!

  • What type of center are you? What do you treat?

    Darby Integrative Counseling provides referrals to therapists at the practice who have a variety of specialties. We are committed to helping you find the therapist that serves your needs. The therapists at the practice offer specialty services for a wide range of populations, diagnoses, and age groups. They utilize various types of treatment to meet your needs. Reach out today to get started on your journey to healing and happiness.

  • When are your hours?

    We’re open daily (including nights and weekends!) from 7:30 AM to 9:00 PM EST. Each therapist offers different hours and we will match you with a therapist that meets your clinical and your scheduling needs!

  • Why Darby Integrative Counseling?

    You have options, and we believe in choosing the best options for yourself! The carefully cultivated and compassionate group of independent therapists at Darby Integrative Counseling have a wide range of backgrounds, specialties, and certifications to ensure we can link you to the therapist best suited to meet your needs. We believe in high level care for all clients and are devoted to offering you just that: Best in Class Care. You need not look any further, as you have found the right place to take the next step into being connected with a therapist who can help you today. Get started by clicking Book an Appointment and get linked to a therapist in your area.

  • How frequently do you meet with clients?

    At the start of treatment, therapists will meet with a client at least once weekly to begin building the therapeutic relationship together and to solidify goals and progress on those goals. Depending on the needs of the client, these sessions may continue weekly or may reduce over time. This decision is dependent upon each client and their therapist.

  • What ages do you work with?

    Each therapist at the practice has different populations and ages they treat. Typical age ranges include: children 6 years and up, adolescents 12 years and up, and adults 18 years and up (including young adults, middle aged adults, and the elderly). Explore our therapists’ profiles to see what ages each of them works with.

  • What will my insurance reimburse me for therapy visits?

    Therapists are non-participating providers (Out of Network) with all insurance companies. Therapists provide Superbill Receipts to clientsClients obtain reimbursement directly from their insurance company.

    • Clients can use Reimbursify to help with submitting Superbills to their insurance!
      • https://reimbursify.com/individual-page/

    We recommend asking these questions to your insurance carrier before your first session: 

    • Do I have Out of Network, Mental Health benefits?
    • What is my Out of Network deductible?
      • How much of my deductible has been met?
    • What’s the “allowed amount” for psychotherapy sessions?
      • Insurance may ask for “CPT” codes:
        • 90834 and 90837 (individual therapy codes)
        • 90847 and 90846 (family therapy codes)
        • 90791 (evaluation code)
    • How much is my coinsurance/copay?
    • Does my coverage differ for virtual sessions?
    • Is preauthorization required?
      • How many therapy sessions does my plan cover?
      • Is a referral required from my primary care physician?​​
    • ​Therapists provides superbill receipts to obtain reimbursement- How do I submit receipts?
      • Is there anything else I’ll need to submit with the Superbills/receipts?

  • Do you offer telehealth and/or in-person therapy?

    Yes, we offer both in our comfy upscale Downtown Silver Spring office!

    While we remain in tune with the latest safety guidelines regarding COVID thus limiting the number of in-person sessions, we are excited to return to more in-person sessions soon.

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