FAQs & Cost Investment

How long are sessions?

OAO standard sessions are 45-50 minutes.

Do you accept insurance?

We are not in-network with any insurance companies at this time. We accept all major credit cards, HSA/FSA cards, checks, and cash. Payment is due at the time of service. Upon request, we provide superbills (session receipts) that our clients may submit to their insurance for possible reimbursement. Any portion of reimbursement, if any, is determined by your insurance company.

How much is the cost of a session?

Our therapist rates vary, reflecting licensure level and years of experience.

Kristin Mervich, LCSW: Standard sessions are $200 per 45-50 minute session.

Tim Nesvig, LAC: Standard sessions are $160 per 45-50 minute session.

Due to the nature of exposure therapy, clients are eligible to request 75 minute sessions and 90-100 minute sessions. Alternative lengths in session are granted upon request, the need of the client, and current availability.

At-home and ‘out in the community’ session rates are determined based off a variety of factors (e.g. including travel time, etc.). Please ask us more about these rates if you’re interested in at-home or community based sessions.

How often do you recommend coming to therapy?

This will depend on the needs of the client, but we typically recommend weekly sessions initially with the intention to transition to biweekly and then monthly as the client progresses. Attending therapy consistently, especially in the beginning, is vital to making progress and feeling better. That being said, we will see clients two-four times a week initially if this clinically necessary and OAO has the availability to accommodate this need.

How long does therapy take?

Our goal is to teach you the skills you need to feel confident in your ability to manage any symptoms you may have on your own. Just how long that may take varies with each client, but we assure you, we want you to attend for only the length of time you need/benefit.

What does an initial session look like?

An initial session is a time for you and your therapist to get to know one another and ensure that we are a great fit for each other. Your therapist will ask questions about you or your child’s history and gather an understanding of what you would like out of therapy. For children clients, initial sessions will be parent only sessions.

Does OAO offer teletherapy?

Yes, teletherapy is offered to all clients. If your therapist clinically believes teletherapy to be ineffective for a client, we will take steps to find them appropriate care. We see people throughout Arizona who are not in the Phoenix area. We use a HIPAA compliant platform for web sessions.

What does it look like for my child to attend therapy with you? What is my role as a parent/guardian?

This will depend on the age and needs of the client. Parents are encouraged to be present for the initial intake for adolescents and required for children. Child intakes are typically with parents only. For children under 14, we recommend that parents/guardians have sessions once every 3-4 weeks without their child present upon consent from the child. For adolescents, family sessions, are encouraged once a month. We strongly value parent and family involvement in therapy. We see children ages 6 and up.

Are you willing to coordinate care with my child’s school and other providers?

Absolutely, as long as you and your child consent and sign a release of information.

Can my partner/supportive family member or friend join me for a session?

We are more than happy to designate sessions as needed to educate a client’s support system and provide recommendations on how best to support a client at home during therapy.

Do you leave the office for exposure work?

Yes, as long as we have consent from the client (and parent/guardian for minors). We are happy to meet people at stores, malls, coffee shops, etc. and potentially your home provided time, schedule, and circumstance allows. We are not able to drive any patient in our personal cars. Therefore, if a client is unable to drive, they will need someone in their support system to drive them to the destination of the exposure and back.

Do you have any other questions? Feel free to contact us for a free 15 minute consultation.