Compassionate Psychologist in New York City
CONTACT /APPOINTMENT
Hello and thank you for considering me as your potential therapist.
Choosing the right person to work with is really important! That is why I offer a free, 20-minute consultation. We can meet over Zoom to see if we click!
To schedule this consultation, click on the button "CONTACT ME" below.
I'll get back to you within a day and give you access to a secure portal. This is a confidential space for you to share more about what you're going through and what you hope to achieve with therapy. If you'd like to know more about my approach to therapy, please check this page.
Looking forward to the possibility of working together on your path to your Authentic Self!
With much warmth,
Yuko Hanakawa, Ph.D.
Some important logistics for you to know before our consultation session...
Here are the session fees for your reference:
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60-minute Therapy session: $360
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45-minute Therapy session: $285
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45-minute Professional Consultation session: $260
Currently, I'm conducting all sessions online.
Please note that all sliding scale slots are currently filled.
I accept Venmo, PayPal, and credit cards for payment.
If you have insurance for out-of-network providers (PPO), I provide a superbill each month for you to submit. And for those of you swamped with life, we can handle the insurance submission for a small $5 fee.
Essential Practice Policy:
Insurance:
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Please note that I am not an 'in-network provider.' If your plan has out-of-network benefits (PPO), you can submit superbills to your insurance company and receive reimbursements.
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Please be aware that as of January 16, 2024, I have opted out of Medicare and will no longer accept Medicare, including Medigap insurance. Consequently, all fees for my services will be out-of-pocket.
Time Boundaries:
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Kindly understand that punctuality is crucial for our therapy sessions. If you arrive late, we unfortunately cannot extend the session to make up for the lost time. Your understanding and cooperation are greatly appreciated.
Cancellation Policy:
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We understand that life can be unpredictable. If you need to cancel your appointment, please give me at least 48 hours' notice. Cancellations made less than 48 hours before your appointment will incur the full fee. It's important to note that insurance companies typically do not cover cancellation fees, so this cost would be your responsibility. :-(
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In life, unexpected events can arise – I completely understand that. If you're faced with a medical emergency or an unforeseen, urgent work commitment, please know that I'm here to support you and exceptions can be made. Should a situation require you to cancel within the 48-hour window, rest assured, let's find a suitable time for rescheduling.
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Please note, though, that this might mean we'll have two sessions in one week at a later date, to ensure continuity of your care. I value our time together and the commitment we've made to your well-being. Therefore, in the event of a missed session within the 48-hour window, the session fee will still apply for the original date.
Suitability:
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Our therapy may not be suitable for individuals with the following symptoms just because I am not specialized in these types of conditions. If you have any of the conditions listed below, we recommend seeking a specialist who focuses on these symptoms:
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Individuals who pose a danger to themselves or others (e.g., potential for suicide, homicide, violence)
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Those with severe mental illnesses (e.g., hallucinations, delusions) or severe anger issues, injurious behaviors toward the self and others, and significant dissociative conditions.
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Those with severe addictions or eating disorders that require medical interventions.
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Privacy:
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Clients' privacy (session content, personal information) is strictly protected. However, if there is a possibility of abuse towards children, the elderly, or adults with intellectual disabilities, or if there is potential for homicide, suicide, or harm to someone, the therapist is legally obligated to report this to the police or relevant government agencies.
Emergency:
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If you're experiencing thoughts of self-harm or risk to others, it's vital to seek immediate help. Please dial or text 988 for confidential support, available 24/7 through the 988 Lifeline. This service is designed to assist individuals in a suicidal crisis or experiencing severe mental distress. Alternatively, consider visiting your nearest emergency room. Please note that my practice is not specialized in managing imminent self-harm risks. Your safety and wellbeing are always the paramount concern, and reaching out for immediate help is essential.
Things that my office does not provide:
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We do not provide any legal evaluations, including, but not limited to, parental custody evaluations, court-mandated treatment, emotional support animal evaluations, weapons purchase clearance evaluations or other similar administrative evaluations.
Schedule a free consultation with me today and embark on a journey to a life that's more aligned, authentic, and joyously yours! 😄
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What is the average cost for a session with mental health professionals in NYC?The cost of mental health services in New York City can vary depending on the type of professional you choose. On average, sessions with a psychiatrist tend to be the highest, averaging around $400 per session. Psychologists typically charge an average of $250 per session, followed by social workers at $200 per session, and mental health counselors at approximately $150 per session. It's essential to keep in mind that these are "average" figures, and individual rates may vary based on the therapist's experience, location within the city, and specific services offered. Additionally, therapists who undergo intensive post-graduation training, are certified in a particular model of therapy as therapist, supervisor, trainer, or faculty, tend to charge more. Many therapists also offer sliding scale fees or accept insurance, so it's a good idea to inquire about payment options during your initial consultation.
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What's the difference between psychiatrist and psychologist?Psychologists and psychiatrists are both mental health professionals, but they have different approaches to treatment and qualifications. Psychologists typically hold a Ph.D. or Psy.D. in psychology and focus on providing talk therapy and counseling services to individuals, couples, and groups. They often use various therapeutic techniques to help clients manage and overcome emotional and psychological issues. On the other hand, psychiatrists are medical doctors (M.D. or D.O.) who specialize in mental health. They can prescribe medication and offer a range of medical treatments for mental health conditions. While some psychiatrists also provide therapy, their primary role is often medication management. In summary, the main distinction lies in their approach: psychologists primarily provide therapy and counseling, while psychiatrists are medical professionals who can prescribe medication and offer a broader range of medical treatments for mental health conditions. Depending on your specific needs, you may choose one or both types of professionals to address your mental health concerns.
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What's the difference between therapy and counseling?Counseling and therapy are two terms often used interchangeably, but they do have distinct differences. Both are forms of mental health support, but they vary in their focus, duration, and goals. Counseling is typically a shorter-term process that aims to address specific issues or immediate concerns. It often focuses on practical problem-solving, skill-building, and coping strategies. Counseling is well-suited for individuals dealing with specific life challenges, such as relationship issues, grief, or career transitions. It tends to be more solution-focused and goal-oriented. Therapy, on the other hand, is a broader and more comprehensive approach to addressing emotional and psychological issues. It can be long-term and explores the deeper underlying causes of emotional distress or mental health conditions. Therapy delves into the past, patterns of behavior, and thought processes to promote self-awareness, healing, and personal growth. It's beneficial for individuals with complex or chronic mental health concerns like depression, anxiety disorders, or trauma. In summary, counseling is often shorter-term and solution-focused, while therapy is a more in-depth and long-term exploration of underlying issues. The choice between counseling and therapy depends on your specific needs and goals, and a mental health professional can help determine which approach is most appropriate for you!
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Do you take my insurance?Yes and no. While I am not an 'in-network provider,' if your insurance plan offers out-of-network benefits, typically associated with PPO plans, you can submit superbills for reimbursement. In order for you to find out your reimbursement rates, it's best to refer to your insurance booklet or information in your portal, or call them directly. When you call, you can inquire about the reimbursement rates for the CPT code 90834 (45 minutes) or 90837 (60 minutes). Here are some helpful questions to ask when you call your insurance company: Do I have out-of-network benefits for psychotherapy? Do I have a deductible? How much is it? What percentage of my bill will be covered after my deductible is met? What is the insurance company’s usual and customary fee for CPT codes 90834 (45 minutes session) or 90837 (60 minutes session)? Helpful Tips for Potential Patients: Verify if your insurance plan includes out-of-network mental health coverage. Keep your insurance booklet or online portal information handy for reference. When calling your insurance company, be prepared to ask about specific CPT codes, as cited above, for accurate rate information. As of January 16, 2024, I have opted out of Medicare and will no longer accept Medicare or Medigap insurance, so Medicare beneficiaries will need to consider this when seeking services. If you are looking for a therapist who is in-network with your insurance, you can utilize healthcare-focused search platforms like ZocDoc, Headway, or Alma (helloalma.com). These platforms can help you find in-network therapists who accept your insurance and provide services that match your needs.