Frequently Asked Questions

 

How does insurance coverage work for therapy?

At the initial appointment, Dr. Ranttila will obtain your coverage information.  The insurance company is then billed for services rendered.  The client is responsible for all copayments, coinsurance, deductibles, and/or services denied.  Clients are responsible for verifying coverage before the appointment, as anything not paid by insurance is the client's responsibility. All copayments are due at the time of the session.  Cash, checks or credit cards may be used.  Clients may also use debit cards from Health Savings Accounts (HSA) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) through employers. 

 

How does insurance coverage work for testing/assessment?

Clients are responsible for verifying coverage.  If your plan requires authorization from the provider, please inform Dr. Ranttila.  Most plans cover testing; however, type and amount of coverage may vary. 

 

What do I need at the first appointment?

Arrive five to ten minutes early to complete the new client paperwork.  Bring your insurance card and copayment. 

 

What should I expect in my first appointment?

The first appointment is a time for you to share your concerns.  Talk about what brings you to therapy right now.  You and Dr. Ranttila will set initial goals and discuss what comes next. The first appointment is comprised of gathering history and discussing symptoms. Testing is typically not done in the first session. Dr. Ranttila will discuss testing options and use the information to make a plan for any testing that is needed.

 

Should I bring my child to the first appointment? Or should I come alone or with his/her other parent?

Generally, it is a good idea to bring your child to the first appointment.  Please be aware that most questions in the first session are parent-directed.  However, it is important for children to meet Dr. Ranttila and become acquainted with the office.  Children are able to play and build a sense of comfort during the initial appointment.  Some parents prefer to come alone to the first session, as they have a great deal of information to share or are concerned about discussing their child’s difficulties in their presence.  If you are not sure about this decision, just ask Dr. Ranttila.

 

How often will I be coming to therapy?

This question is very individual and depends on goals set between the client and psychologist.  As a general rule, Dr. Ranttila prefers to begin with weekly sessions to facilitate building rapport and comfort in sessions.  Frequency of sessions is then agreed upon by the client and therapist. Ongoing progress is monitored at each session to ensure optimal client satisfaction and review goals.

 

How long does assessment take?

Dr. Ranttila will let you know how many sessions are needed to complete the testing requested. Most assessments will consist of at least two appointments- the initial intake appointment and a follow up testing appointment(s). Autism, learning, and ADHD evaluations for children and adolescents take 2-4 sessions. Adult assessments can take 1-3 sessions. Written reports are usually completed within two to four weeks.  After any assessment, Dr. Ranttila holds a feedback session with parents to review results and recommendations.

 

How does confidentiality work?

All rules and laws regarding HIPAA, confidentiality and privacy are strictly enforced.  Anyone over age 18 is entitled to confidentiality and their communications are treated as privileged.  Clients under 18 must present with a parent or guardian, as they may not legally give consent for treatment.  A parent who consents on a minor's behalf generally has the right to know the content of the child's treatment. This issue changes when the minor reaches the age of majority. Until that time, the law will normally give the parent access to the child's treatment.  At the same time, it is important to safeguard a minor’s privacy, especially during the adolescent years.  In the initial session, clients, parents and Dr. Ranttila will discuss confidentiality and what information is to be disclosed (e.g., issues of harm or risk).  Dr. Ranttila is a mandated reporter and is required by law to report child abuse, elder abuse, statements that indicate a child is at imminent risk, or other situations as defined by Duty to Warn laws.