Frequently Asked Questions

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Many people benefit from psychotherapy. There are many different types of psychotherapy with different goals. Some types of therapy aid people in gaining insight into patterns of thinking, attachment, or behavior. Other types are skills based therapies where the person learns new methods interacting and dealing with people and the world around them. 

People come to therapy with a variety of life experiences and insights. Sometimes talking about those life experiences can be painful. Making change can also result in a shift in the way a person interacts with others, which can be uncomfortable. 

Each therapist or agency sets their own rate based on experience, training, and cost of living. We try to keep our rates reasonable in order to make mental health treatment accessible. Our clinicians offer a free 15-30 minute consultation to decide if we are a good fit to work together. We charge $200 per 53-minute session for individuals or couples therapy. 

The cost for psychological evaluations depends on the type of evaluation conducted and the number of tests required to conduct the evaluation. 

We are paneled with HealthNet/MHN, Carelon (Kaiser of Northern California's mental health contractor), Cigna, and Optum/United Healthcare. 

Copays and deductibles apply for all insurance based services. 

Most health insurance companies provide some form of mental health treatment, but there are limitations. Kaiser requires patients to have an authorization for psychotherapy in order for them to pay for your treatment. 

While we fully appreciate that relationship stresses have a significant impact on mental health, relational issues are not in the DSM and are not covered by insurance.  

While our staff are trained to address a variety of mental health and other concerns, we typically work with individuals managing anxiety, depression, bipolar-II disorder, trauma and life adjustment concerns.   

Bay Area Psychological Services, Inc. is an affirming and inclusive practice where people are treated with respect. We provide psychological testing to people age 4-years and up. We provide psychotherapy to teens and adults ages 14+. We serve couples seeking to reduce relational distress, improve communication and strengthen their attachment bonds.