Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of going to therapy?

Some of the main benefits of therapy include having a safe space to process emotions, gaining insights into behaviors and relationships, learning healthy coping skills, reducing anxiety and depression, and improving your overall wellbeing. A good therapist helps you better understand yourself and make positive changes.

How do I know if I need therapy?

Therapy can benefit anyone who wants help with their mental health and personal growth. Signs you may want to consider therapy include feeling sad, stressed or anxious for weeks at a time, having difficulty coping with life events, struggling in relationships, or not feeling like your best or true self.

What health insurance plans are accepted at Within Reach Therapy?

Within Reach Therapy proudly partners with Alma and accepts: Aetna, AllSavers UHC, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts*, Cigna, Harvard Pilgrim, Oscar, Oxford Health Plans, UHC Student Resources, UMR, and UnitedHealthcare for clients of Jason Nicholsen only.

Leen Nguyen is only accepting clients who are private pay at this time.

We also accept clients who prefer private payment.

* If you have coverage through another Blue Cross Blue Shield plan and there’s a suitcase on your card, you may be covered under the BlueCard network. If you have questions, call 1-800-676-BLUE for support. 

Why are some sessions private pay only?

While there are certainly benefits to using insurance for therapy, there are some things you should consider. There is a greater degree of confidentiality and freedom in health care choices with independent pay, since claims processed via insurance often pass through multiple hands at insurance companies. Another thing to consider is that insurance companies may limit the number of sessions you are eligible for. Finally, processing your therapy visits through insurance means you are given a mental health diagnosis that may be taken into consideration in future situations like life insurance policies or applying for employment in government agencies or the military.

None of this information is meant to alarm you. Rather, we want you to have all the information available when making decisions about your mental health, and we share this to show you why some therapists choose to protect their clients by not billing insurance.

What states are you licensed to treat clients in?

Our therapists are currently licensed in D.C., Connecticut, Florida, and Virginia. Because of therapist licensing regulations, we are unable to provide therapy to anyone who is not living in one of those states.

How does virtual therapy work? Is it safe? Private?

Our virtual therapy sessions take place over a HIPAA-compliant video call platform. It functions very similarly to in-office therapy, with the therapist and client able to speak face-to-face through the screen. You just need a phone, tablet, or computer with audio and video capabilities.

We utilize therapy platforms that are encrypted to ensure your privacy is protected. You have a confidential relationship with your therapist. Sessions take place in the privacy of your own home. Therapists follow all laws and ethics for safety and privacy.

Is virtual therapy just as effective as in-person therapy?

Without a doubt! Research shows that virtual therapy is just as effective as in-person therapy when conducted by a licensed professional. The therapeutic relationship and outcomes are comparable. Virtual therapy expands access to mental healthcare for those unable to meet in person.  

What is the difference between a consultation and a session?

Consultations are free, 15-minute meetings between a new client and their prospective therapist – we like to think of them as a meet-and-greet! Consultations are a chance for both parties to make sure they feel like the client-therapist relationship will be a good fit. 

Sessions are 45-minute psychotherapy meetings between the client and therapist, and are billed at the therapist’s regular rate. Please note that at this time, we offer only telehealth (virtual) sessions.

What can I expect during my first session?

You and your therapist will discuss your goals for therapy, your presenting symptoms and concerns, historical background, and your availability for sessions. We will provide you with guidance on what we feel is appropriate for your treatment and offer additional resources, supports, and/or referrals.

How often will I need sessions?

Frequency of sessions ranges from weekly to monthly, depending on your needs. Many people start with weekly sessions to make quicker progress, then move to every other week or monthly for maintenance. Your therapist will work with you to determine the best schedule. 

What if I am unable to make my scheduled session?

We understand that life happens! There are going to be circumstances that arise which may prevent you from being able to attend therapy. We request you notify your therapist within 24 hours in order to not be charged a no show/late cancellation fee.