Frequently Asked Questions

Asking for help can be scary. It makes us feel vulnerable. Asking for help, however, requires a lot of strength and self-awareness. It is something to be admired rather than looked down on. Life comes with challenges and there is nothing wrong with seeking extra support to get through these transitions and changes. By asking for help, and seeking therapy, you are taking the first step towards change. Therapy can help assist people through a range of issues such as transitional life stages, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and relationship or family issues. 

All people are different and each person has unique goals and experiences.  This makes each person's process an individualized experience in therapy. Generally, therapy begins by discussing your primary concerns, current events, and personal history. As you move through this process, we discuss problems, solve obstacles to your goals, and review successes and progress.

Therapy can be a short-term process for quick life transitions or a long-term process to tackle difficult patterns and more integrated issues. In order to move through the process it requires you to be an active participant in order to help you achieve your goals. It may be recommended as part of the process for you to do additional work outside of therapy to support your growth. Change can be uncomfortable - this is normal. In order to break habits and facilitate change, we will work together through any discomfort or challenges to achieve your goals.

Telehealth is therapy from the comfort of your own space while using an electronic device. Similar to FaceTime, Skype, or Zoom, Telehealth allows for virtual mental health services. Services are provided through our HIPAA compliant Electronic Health Record (EHR) system. Rachel is able to provide Telehealth for individuals and families located in Maryland and DC. 

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a psychosocial intervention that aims to improve mental health. CBT focuses on challenging and changing unhelpful cognitive distortions and behaviors, improving emotional regulation, and developing personal coping strategies help solve current problems. CBT alone is 50-75% effective for overcoming depression and anxiety after 8-15 sessions.

There is a lot of evidence to support that often the best course of treatment for certain mental health and emotional issues is a combination of both therapy and medication. Long-term solutions to these issues cannot typically be "solved" solely by medication as this often will just treat a symptom rather than the root of the problem. Research into this question notes that often times people achieve the most sustainable and successful growth by using an integrative approach with a combination of treatment strategies. Ultimately, I would recommend asking your psychiatrist or medical provider what is best for you regarding a combination of therapy and medication management if you have lingering hesitation regarding the therapeutic process.

In the first session, we will meet for approximately 50 minutes. You will be asked questions to clarify your current situation and past history. We will discuss treatment options, establish an individualized plan for therapy, and begin to outline goals for future sessions.

To work with Rachel Chazen, 45-minute sessions are $230. Most individuals and families are seen weekly and some transition to being seen every other week as progress is made on goals. For your convenience, all major credit cards and HSA accounts with check/debit capability are accepted through our EHR system. There is no surcharge for evening appointments. Prior to your first session, session fees and estimated costs will be discussed with you. You will receive a Good Faith Estimate in writing of expected costs for therapy, which is required by law under the No Surprises Act and is to be given to all uninsured, out-of-network, or self-paying clients for services offered when scheduling care or when the client requests an estimate.

Rachel Chazen Therapy does not work with insurance directly on your behalf. We can provide you with a Superbill to submit for reimbursement for out-of-network coverage. Most of our clients who submit Superbills receive some of out-of-pocket costs back; however, this submission does require a mental health diagnosis. Due to parity laws, both in-person and telehealth therapy services are reimbursed at the same rates. You may also use your HSA/FSA checking account/debit card as a credit card to pay for therapy with pre-tax money set aside for health care expenses. 

I offer a free brief phone consultation to begin the therapeutic process. This helps to ensure that we will be a good fit working together towards your specific goals.

Feel free to call (301) 580-6938 to inquire about the services I offer, my treatment style, or just to ask any questions you might have prior to setting up an appointment.

Also, feel free to email me at rachel@rachelchazentherapy.com with your basic information, questions, and desired goals for therapy. 

Change can be hard. You are not alone. Help is here!