Questions?

We recognize that embarking on the journey of therapy can be an overwhelming experience. To help ease your concerns and simplify the process of scheduling a new appointment, we've compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions that our clients have when taking this important step.

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General Information

Scheduling & Appointment

Cost & Insurance

Online, In-person, Outdoor

Confidentiality & Privacy

General Information

What services does CMHC provide?

CMHC offers a wide range of services to cater to the diverse mental health and personal growth needs of our clients. Our services include:

Individual therapy: Our experienced therapists provide personalized one-on-one counseling to help clients address various concerns, such as stress, anxiety, depression, grief, and other mental health issues. We work collaboratively with clients to develop coping strategies, enhance self-awareness, and foster personal growth.
Couples therapy and relationship work: We offer therapy and counseling for couples and individuals in relationships to help them navigate challenges, improve communication, and strengthen emotional connections. Our therapists specialize in various relationship dynamics and are committed to supporting clients in fostering healthy, fulfilling relationships.
Coaching: Our certified coaches assist clients in achieving personal and professional goals by offering guidance, support, and accountability. Through coaching sessions, clients can clarify their objectives, develop action plans, and build confidence to overcome obstacles and create meaningful change.
Mindfulness teaching: We provide mindfulness instruction to help clients develop greater self-awareness, emotional regulation, and stress reduction. Through mindfulness techniques and practices, clients can cultivate a healthier relationship with their thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations, enhancing their overall well-being.
Workshops, events, and nature programming: CMHC organizes various workshops, events, and nature-based programs to support mental health, personal growth, and community engagement. These offerings cover a wide range of topics, such as stress management, self-care, and personal development, and often incorporate experiential learning and group activities.
Mental Health Professional Supporting Services: We also offer services to support mental health professionals, including consultation, supervision, and training opportunities. Our goal is to foster a community of practice and enhance the skills and knowledge of professionals in the mental health field.

At CMHC, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive and accessible mental health services tailored to the unique needs of each client. Our team of licensed and experienced professionals is committed to supporting clients on their journey towards healing, growth, and overall well-being.

Are your therapists licensed and experienced?

Yes, our therapists at CMHC are licensed and experienced professionals with extensive education and training in their respective fields. They possess valid licenses in areas such as counseling and social work, adhering to the highest ethical and professional standards. Many of our therapists also hold certifications as Nature Informed Therapists.

Our team is dedicated to continuous professional development, staying current with the latest research and evidence-based practices in mental health care. With a diverse range of backgrounds and expertise, our therapists are well-prepared to address various concerns and offer tailored support to each client. All our therapists and clinical interns benefit from the exceptional clinical supervision team, including the nationally renowned therapist Dr. Schreiber-Pan.

We frequently provide professional development and training opportunities for our clinical staff to enhance their skills and knowledge.

At CMHC, we take immense pride in our talented and compassionate therapists who are devoted to delivering high-quality mental health services. Our team is committed to helping clients overcome challenges and promote personal growth.

What types of therapy or counseling methods do you use?

At CMHC, our therapists utilize a wide range of evidence-based therapy and counseling methods to provide the most effective and personalized support for each client. Some of the approaches we employ include:

Nature Informed Therapy (NIT): This approach integrates nature-based interventions and experiences into the therapeutic process, promoting healing, self-awareness, and personal growth through connection with the natural environment.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a goal-oriented approach that helps clients identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors, leading to improved emotional regulation and overall well-being.
Psychodynamic Therapy: This approach explores the influence of unconscious processes and early life experiences on current behaviors and emotions, helping clients gain insight and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
Humanistic Therapy: Humanistic therapy focuses on fostering personal growth, self-awareness, and self-acceptance through empathetic understanding, unconditional positive regard, and genuine communication.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): ACT combines mindfulness techniques with behavior change strategies to help clients develop psychological flexibility, accept difficult emotions, and commit to value-based actions.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): DBT is a skills-based approach that teaches clients effective strategies for emotional regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, distress tolerance, and mindfulness.
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT): EFT is particularly effective for couples and relationships, helping clients explore and reshape their emotional responses to create more secure attachments and improve communication.

Our therapists draw from these approaches and others to create a customized treatment plan that addresses each client's unique needs and concerns. We believe in the importance of utilizing diverse therapeutic modalities to ensure the most effective and holistic support for our clients.

Do you provide services for children and adolescents?

Yes, at CMHC, we understand the importance of addressing the mental health and developmental needs of children and adolescents. Our experienced therapists are trained in working with young clients, employing age-appropriate therapy techniques and interventions to provide effective support.

We offer a range of services tailored to the unique needs of children and adolescents, including individual therapy, family therapy, and group therapy sessions. Our therapists work with young clients facing various concerns, such as anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, peer relationships, self-esteem, and coping with life transitions.

Our approach to child and adolescent therapy is collaborative, involving not only the young client but also their family and support system. We believe in creating a safe, nurturing, and non-judgmental environment where children and adolescents can express themselves, develop healthy coping strategies, and build resilience.

Do you provide services for children and adolescents?

For more information about our services for children and adolescents, please visit our website or contact our office directly to discuss your specific needs and concerns.

Do you offer group therapy sessions or support groups

Yes, at CMHC, we appreciate the significance of group therapy sessions and support groups in fostering healing, personal growth, and a sense of community. We offer a diverse range of group therapy sessions and support groups designed to address specific needs and concerns. These include our Hiking Group and Nature Therapy for Wellness Group, which focus on managing stress and anxiety while promoting personal growth; Grief in the Wild Group, which helps participants cope with grief; Imago Couples' Group, aimed at enriching relationships and enhancing communication; and Trauma Retreat, designed to facilitate healing from traumatic experiences.

Our group therapy sessions and support groups are led by our experienced therapists who establish a safe, nurturing, and confidential environment for participants. These sessions enable individuals to share their experiences, learn from others, and forge supportive connections with peers facing similar challenges. Group therapy is an excellent option for those seeking healing without committing to long-term, regular therapy sessions.

Where is CMHC located?

CMHC is conveniently located in North Towson, just off I-695 at exit 27. After taking exit 27 toward southbound Dulaney Valley Road, our parking lot is on your right-hand side, immediately after Swarthmore Dr. There are entrances to the parking lot from both Dulaney Valley Road and Swarthmore Dr. Our addresses are 1008, 1010, and 1012 Dulaney Valley Road, with ample parking spaces available. The main reception desk is in building #1 at 1010 Dulaney Valley Road.

In addition to our main office, we also offer services at two outdoor locations. One is situated on TALMAR grounds at 1994 Cromwell Bridge Road, Baltimore, MD 21234. The other location is at Irvine Nature Center in Owings Mills, at 11201 Garrison Forest Road, Owings Mills, MD 21117.

General Information

Scheduling

Scheduling & Appointments

How do I schedule an appointment?

Scheduling your first appointment at CMHC is a simple process, designed to connect you with the ideal therapist and services to address your needs. To schedule an initial appointment, please follow these steps:
1. Complete our online intake form: Fill out our HIPAA-compliant online intake form to provide us with the necessary information about your needs and preferences.
2. Wait for our response: After submitting the form, our intake coordinator will contact you within 48 hours to discuss your needs and assist you further in the scheduling process.

If you encounter any difficulties while completing the form or prefer to provide your information over the phone, please don't hesitate to call us at 410-567-1117 or email intakes@cmhcweb.com. Our friendly and professional administrative staff will be more than happy to assist you and take your information over the phone.

At CMHC, we are committed to providing a seamless experience in scheduling your appointments and ensuring you receive the appropriate support and care for your unique needs.

Can I choose a specific therapist or counselor

Yes, at CMHC, we recognize the significance of finding a therapist or counselor who is the right fit for your needs, preferences, and therapeutic goals. You are encouraged to choose a specific therapist or counselor from our team.

To help you make an informed decision, we suggest:

1. Visit our team page: Explore our team page to learn more about our therapists' areas of expertise, backgrounds, and therapeutic approaches. This information will assist you in identifying the therapist who best aligns with your needs and preferences.
2. Indicate your preference on the intake form: When completing the intake form, indicate your therapist preference in response to the question regarding clinician or treatment preferences.
3. Contact us for additional questions: If you have further questions or need assistance, feel free to email us or call us at 410-567-1117 ext 1.

Please be aware that many of our therapists have a waitlist. The availability of a specific therapist may vary depending on their schedule and caseload. If your preferred therapist is unavailable or has limited availability, we will do our best to match you with another therapist who can effectively address your needs and concerns.

Your comfort and satisfaction with your therapist are essential for a successful therapeutic experience, and we are dedicated to helping you find the best possible match. How long are the therapy sessions, and how often do they occur?

What is your cancellation policy

At CMHC, we have a cancellation policy in place to ensure that our therapists' time is used efficiently and that appointments are available for clients who need them. Our cancellation policy is as follows:

Advance notice: If you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment, please provide at least 24 hours' advance notice. This allows us to offer the appointment slot to another client who may be waiting for an opening.
Late cancellations: If you cancel or reschedule your appointment with less than 24 hours' notice, you may be subject to a late cancellation fee. This fee is in place to compensate our therapists for the reserved time that could have been allocated to another client.
No-shows: If you do not show up for your scheduled appointment without providing any prior notice, you may also be charged a no-show fee. This fee helps cover the lost time and resources for our therapists and staff.
Exceptions: We understand that unforeseen circumstances can arise, and we will take these situations into account on a case-by-case basis. If you have a genuine emergency or unavoidable situation that prevents you from attending your appointment, please inform our office as soon as possible.

Please familiarize yourself with our cancellation policy and make every effort to respect the time and availability of our therapists and fellow clients. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the policy, feel free to reach out to our office for clarification.

What should I expect during my first session?

Your first session at CMHC serves as an opportunity for you and your therapist to get acquainted, discuss your concerns, and establish the foundation for your therapeutic journey. Here's what you can expect during your initial session:

Introductions: Your therapist will introduce themselves and review their professional background, therapeutic approach, and any relevant policies or procedures, including confidentiality.
Discussing your concerns: You will be encouraged to share your concerns, challenges, and reasons for seeking therapy. This may include discussing your feelings, thoughts, behaviors, relationships, or any other aspects of your life that you feel are relevant.
Assessment: Your therapist will ask you a series of questions to gain a deeper understanding of your background, history, and any contributing factors to your concerns. This information will help your therapist develop a more comprehensive perspective on your situation and identify appropriate treatment strategies.
Goal setting: Together, you and your therapist will begin to establish therapeutic goals and objectives. These goals will serve as a guide for your therapy sessions, helping you track progress and maintain focus on the areas that are most important to you.
Developing a treatment plan: Your therapist may introduce some initial treatment recommendations or interventions to address your concerns. This plan will evolve and adapt as your therapy progresses, ensuring that your needs are continually met.
Building rapport: The first session is also an opportunity for you and your therapist to build rapport and establish a trusting, collaborative relationship. It's essential to feel comfortable with your therapist, so feel free to ask any questions or share any concerns you may have.
Scheduling future appointments: At the end of the session, you'll discuss the frequency and scheduling of future appointments, based on your needs and the therapist's recommendations.

Your first session is an essential step towards self-discovery, healing, and personal growth. It's normal to feel a bit nervous or unsure, but remember that your therapist is there to support you and provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you to express yourself and work through your challenges.

Can I Make an Appointment for Someone Else?

Yes, it is possible to make an appointment for someone else, as long as the person has given their consent. Respecting their autonomy and ensuring they are willing to engage in the therapy process is crucial. When scheduling the initial appointment on their behalf, please ensure you have their contact and insurance information readily available.

While you can help your loved one by setting up an appointment, it's essential to encourage and support them in taking an active role in their therapeutic journey. You can do this by:

Sharing information: Provide them with information about CMHC, our services, and therapists. You can direct them to our website or share relevant resources that might be helpful for them.
Assisting with the process: Offer to help them navigate the intake process or be available to answer any questions they may have about scheduling an appointment.
Offering support: Encourage open communication and let them know that you are there for them during their therapeutic journey. Be understanding and empathetic to their needs.

Remember, the individual's investment and willingness to engage in the process of self-exploration and healing are crucial for a successful therapeutic experience.

Do you offer group therapy sessions or support groups

Cost & Insurance

What is the cost of therapy or counseling sessions?

The cost of therapy or counseling sessions at CMHC can vary depending on several factors, such as the therapist's level of experience, and whether you are using insurance or paying out-of-pocket. To help you understand our fee structure, here are some general guidelines:

• In-Network Insurance coverage: If your therapist is in-network with your insurance, you will typically pay copays, assuming you have met your deductibles. Typical copies are between $10-$40 per session. Be sure to verify your coverage, copayments, and deductibles with your insurance provider.
• Out-of-Network Insurance coverage: If your therapist is not in-network with your insurance, your out-of-pocket costs may be reduced, depending on your coverage type and if you have met your Out-of-Network deductible.
• Standard sessions paying out-of-pocket: Fees for standard therapy sessions, which usually last between 45-60 minutes, range from $120 to $170, based on the therapist's experience level.
• Sliding scale: Most CMHC therapists offer a limited number of sliding scale fee spots for clients experiencing financial hardship. Availability depends on the therapists who offer this option and if sliding scale spots are open.
• Affordable Counseling Program (ACP): With fees as low as $30 per session, ACP is an excellent option for clients who are uninsured, underinsured, or have unmet high deductibles. ACP clinicians are professionally trained pre-licensed clinicians under supervision by board-certified therapists and approved supervisors. They have gone through a rigorous CMHC interview process, just like other clinicians.

For specific information about the cost of therapy or counseling sessions at CMHC, please contact our office directly. Our administrative staff will gladly provide detailed information about fees and help you understand your financial options for therapy.

Do you accept insurance? If so, which providers are in-network?

Yes, CMHC accepts insurance, and we are committed to making our services accessible to clients with various insurance plans. All of our therapists are in-network with CareFirst/BlueCross BlueShield (BCBS). Additionally, our Fully Licensed Clinical (LCPC or LCWS) level therapists are in-network with Cigna/EverNorth and Johns Hopkins EHP.

To ensure that your insurance plan covers our services, we recommend checking with your insurance provider to confirm coverage, copayments, and deductibles that may apply. If you have any questions or need assistance with insurance-related matters, our administrative staff will be happy to help.

What if my insurance is different?

If your insurance is different from the ones we have in-network contracts with (CareFirst/Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna/EverNorth, and Johns Hopkins EHP), there may still be options for you. If your therapist is not in-network with your insurance, your out-of-pocket costs may be reduced, depending on your coverage type and whether you have met your Out-of-Network deductible.

In such cases, we can provide an itemized statement called a "superbill" after each session. If your insurance plan offers out-of-network benefits, you can submit the superbill(s) to your insurance company for possible partial reimbursement. Please discuss superbills with your therapist or coach for more information and guidance on this process.

Always check with your insurance provider to understand your specific coverage, out-of-network benefits, and any requirements for submitting superbills for reimbursement.

What if I don’t have mental health insurance coverage or have a very high deductible?

If you do not have mental health insurance coverage or have a very high deductible, there are still options available to make therapy more accessible at CMHC:

1. Sliding scale: Most CMHC therapists offer a limited number of sliding scale fee spots for clients experiencing financial hardship. Availability depends on the therapists who offer this option and if sliding scale spots are open.
2. Affordable Counseling Program (ACP): With fees as low as $30 per session, ACP is an excellent option for clients who are uninsured, underinsured, or have unmet high deductibles. ACP clinicians are professionally trained pre-licensed therapists under the supervision of board-certified clinicians and approved supervisors. They have gone through a rigorous CMHC interview process, just like other clinicians.

We are committed to making mental health care accessible and affordable for our clients, regardless of their insurance status or financial situation. If you have any questions or concerns about the cost of therapy, please feel free to contact our office directly. Our administrative staff will be happy to help you explore your options and find a solution that works for you.

What is good faith estimate?

Under Section 2799B-6 of the Public Health Service Act, health care providers and health care facilities are required to inform individuals who are not enrolled in a plan or coverage or a Federal health care program, or not seeking to file a claim with their plan or coverage both orally and in writing of their ability, upon request or at the time of scheduling health care items and services, to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” of expected charges.

You have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” explaining how much your medical care will cost

Under the law, health care providers need to give patients who don’t have insurance or who are not using insurance an estimate of the bill for medical items and services.

You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency items or services.

Your healthcare provider must provide the Good Faith Estimate within the following time frames:

If the service is scheduled at least three business days before the appointment date, no later than one business day after the date of scheduling;

If the service is scheduled at least 10 business days before the appointment date, no later than three business days after the date of scheduling; or

If the uninsured or self-pay patient requests a good faith estimate (without scheduling the service), no later than three business days after the date of the request. A new good faith estimate must be provided, within the specified timeframes if the patient reschedules the requested item or service.

If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can dispute the bill.

To learn more and get a form to start the process, go to www.cms.gov/nosurprises or call 800-985-3059. For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate or the dispute process, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises or call 800-985-3059. Keep a copy of the Good Faith Estimate in a safe place or take pictures of it. You may need it if you are billed a higher amount.

Cost & Insurance

Online, In-Person, or Outdoors Therapy

Do you offer teletherapy or online counseling sessions?

Yes, CMHC offers teletherapy and online counseling sessions as a convenient and accessible option for clients who may not be able to attend in-person sessions or prefer the flexibility of virtual appointments. Our therapists are experienced in providing effective, secure, and confidential teletherapy sessions using a HIPAA-compliant video conferencing platform.

To schedule a teletherapy or online counseling session, simply follow the same process as scheduling an in-person appointment. You can indicate your preference for virtual sessions when completing the intake form or by contacting our office directly.

Whether you choose in-person or teletherapy sessions, our dedicated team of therapists is committed to providing high-quality mental health care tailored to your individual needs and goals.

Do you offer In-person counseling sessions?

Yes, CMHC offers in-person counseling sessions for clients who prefer a face-to-face therapeutic experience. While we recognize telehealth technology has greatly increased access to mental health care, especially for individuals who live in rural or underserved areas, have limited mobility, or face other barriers to in-person care. Even for folks living in the city or suburban, technology has made it easier for individuals to receive mental health care from the comfort of their own homes or any other location with an internet connection., we at CMHC believe in the value of in-person therapy sessions whenever possible.

In-person therapy offers several unique benefits that can be more challenging to achieve through telehealth or other remote forms of therapy, such as:

Greater connection and rapport: In-person sessions allow for better nonverbal communication and physical presence, fostering a stronger therapeutic relationship and sense of connection.
More comprehensive assessment: In-person therapy enables therapists to observe and assess clients in a more nuanced way, which is especially important for treating complex mental health concerns.
Access to physical resources: In-person sessions give clients immediate access to resources like our library, props, games, and art supplies to support the therapeutic process.
Reduced distractions: In-person sessions are typically free from distractions, making it easier for clients to stay focused and fully engage in therapy.
Increased accountability: In-person therapy can boost accountability for both clients and therapists, as clients are more likely to attend scheduled sessions and therapists are more likely to prioritize clients' well-being.

To schedule an in-person counseling session, follow the same process as scheduling any other appointment: complete the intake form or contact our office directly. You can indicate your preference for in-person sessions during this process. Our dedicated team of therapists is committed to providing high-quality mental health care tailored to your individual needs and goals, whether you choose in-person or teletherapy sessions.

I see you also offer outdoor sessions, can you tell me more about it?

Yes, CMHC is proud to offer outdoor therapy sessions, which combine the benefits of traditional therapy with the healing power of nature. Our outdoor therapy sessions, also known as Nature Informed Therapy or ecotherapy, provide an alternative to traditional in-person or teletherapy sessions.

Outdoor therapy sessions take place in natural settings such as parks, forests, or green spaces, allowing clients to engage with their environment while addressing their mental health concerns. Some of the benefits of outdoor therapy include:

Reduced stress and anxiety: Research has shown that spending time in nature can lower stress levels, reduce anxiety, and improve overall well-being.
Enhanced mood: Exposure to natural sunlight and fresh air can boost serotonin levels, which is linked to improved mood and emotional regulation.
Increased focus and attention: Engaging with nature can help to restore attention and improve concentration, which can be beneficial during therapy sessions.
Mindfulness and grounding: The natural environment provides opportunities for mindfulness and grounding exercises, which can be especially helpful for clients struggling with anxiety, stress, or trauma.
Strengthened connection to nature: Outdoor therapy allows clients to develop a deeper connection with the natural world, which can promote a sense of belonging, resilience, and self-awareness.

To schedule an outdoor therapy session, complete the intake form or contact our office directly, indicating your preference for outdoor sessions. Our experienced therapists will work with you to create a personalized therapy plan that incorporates the therapeutic benefits of nature into your mental health journey.

Online, In-person, or Outdoor

Confidentiality and Privacy

Is everything discussed in therapy sessions confidential?

Yes, therapy at CMHC is confidential. We adhere to strict ethical guidelines and legal requirements to protect your privacy and ensure the confidentiality of the information shared during therapy sessions. The trust and safety of our clients are of utmost importance to us.

In general, the information you disclose during therapy sessions will not be shared with anyone without your explicit consent. However, there are some legally mandated exceptions to confidentiality that require therapists to disclose certain information. These exceptions include:

1. Risk of harm to self or others: If a therapist believes that a client poses an imminent risk of harm to themselves or others, they are obligated to take appropriate action to ensure the safety of the individuals involved.
2. Suspected abuse or neglect of a child, elderly person, or dependent adult: If a therapist has reason to suspect that a child, elderly person, or dependent adult is being abused or neglected, they are legally required to report this information to the relevant authorities.
3. Court orders: In rare instances, a therapist may be required to disclose information in response to a court order or as part of legal proceedings.

It is important to discuss any concerns about confidentiality with your therapist at the beginning of your therapy journey. They will be able to provide further information and address any questions you may have about the limits of confidentiality and the measures taken to safeguard your privacy.

Privacy

Client Portal

Questions?

General Information

What services does CMHC provide?

Are your therapists licensed and experienced?

What types of therapy or counseling methods do you use?

Do you provide services for children and adolescents?

Do you provide services for children and adolescents?

Do you offer group therapy sessions or support groups

Where is CMHC located?

Scheduling & Appointments

How do I schedule an appointment?

Can I choose a specific therapist or counselor

What is your cancellation policy

What should I expect during my first session?

Can I Make an Appointment for Someone Else?

Do you offer group therapy sessions or support groups

Cost & Insurance

What is the cost of therapy or counseling sessions?

Do you accept insurance? If so, which providers are in-network?

What if my insurance is different?

What if I don’t have mental health insurance coverage or have a very high deductible?

What is good faith estimate?

Online, In-Person, or Outdoors Therapy

Do you offer teletherapy or online counseling sessions?

Do you offer In-person counseling sessions?

I see you also offer outdoor sessions, can you tell me more about it?

Confidentiality and Privacy

Is everything discussed in therapy sessions confidential?

More Questions