Cristy Lopez, Ph.D. 2942 N. 24th St., Suite 110
602 323-7824 Phoenix, AZ 85016
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does therapy cost?
Rates are as follows: $150 per session (50-60 minutes) for counseling
and psychotherapy, coaching, consulting, formal assessment, and report
writing. Workshops and retreat rates vary by topic, size, and location.
Are longer sessions available?
Intensive therapy (e.g., 2 - 4+hour long sessions) are offered for couples
and individuals in crisis or wanting to boost their therapy experience.
How can I pay for my services?
Payment is at the end of each session and should be by cash, check, or
credit/debit card. Patients or parents of child patients are responsible for
all fees for services provided.
Do you accept insurance?
I do not accept insurance for the following reasons:
Insurance companies often require a diagnosis for you to receive
psychotherapy. Many concerns (e.g., stress, couples therapy), therefore,
may not be covered.
Insurance or managed care companies often require Patients (or parents
of Patients) to sign release forms allowing disclosure of confidential
psychological records including case notes and test results. The best
way to protect your privacy is to avoid using insurance.
The insurance company, not you, determines: (a) the number of sessions
you can attend, (b) how often you can attend, (c) the types of counseling
you can have, and (d) what kinds of problems can be addressed.
Insurance companies encourage quick-fix, one-size-fits-all counseling.
While some problems can be addressed in just a few sessions, others
cannot.
What if I need to cancel my appointment?
There will be no charges for a canceled session if the therapist is notified
at least twenty-four (24) hours in advance. If a patient fails to keep a
scheduled appointment and does not notify the therapist twenty-four (24)
hours ahead of time, the patient will be responsible for payment of the full
hourly fee. Continuity in session topics is important, and the intent is to
maintain a fair working relationship.
Is the cost of therapy services tax deductible?
Medical expenses can be itemized as a deduction on your tax return. This
includes, but is not limited to the cost of your therapy appointments, any
materials needed (e.g., client workbooks), and your mileage to and from
the office. To this end, you should seek competent tax counsel to
maximize your benefit.
Were you really on the Dr. Phil
show?
Yes. I have appeared on the Dr. Phil
show and continue to serve as a
therapist for local families who have
been on the show.
Cristy Lopez, Ph.D.
2942 N. 24th St.
Suite 110
Phoenix, AZ 85016
602 323-7824