Frequently asked questions
Starting therapy can come with a lot of questions, especially if this is new to you! We want you to understand your options, know what to expect, and feel comfortable reaching out. Take a look below, and if something is still on your mind, we’d love to help!
Getting Started
Do I need to know exactly what’s wrong before reaching out?
Not at all! You might know what you want to work on, or you might simply know that things have felt harder lately. You can start with what you’ve noticed, even if it’s difficult to explain. We can help you explore whether BVOY offers the kind of support you’re looking for.
Can I talk to someone before booking therapy?
Absolutely! You can request a free 15-minute phone consultation with Vanessa to ask questions about the practice, discuss your options, and get a sense of whether BVOY could be a fit.
The consultation is optional and isn’t a therapy session. You don’t need to share your whole story to ask about getting started.
What happens after I send a message?
Someone from our team will respond within one business day to answer your questions and help you understand the next step. Depending on what you need, that might mean discussing provider availability, arranging a consultation, or directing you to intake paperwork.
Sending a message starts a conversation. It doesn’t reserve or confirm an appointment.
What can I talk about in therapy?
You might be navigating anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationship concerns, self-esteem, or a change you’re still finding your way through. You can also explore how your culture, identity, family expectations, or experiences of discrimination affect your life.
You don’t have to arrive with a diagnosis or a neatly organized explanation. Your provider will get to know you and discuss whether their approach fits your needs.
What if I’m nervous or don’t know what to say?
You’re welcome to say exactly that! Reaching out can feel unfamiliar, and your first message can be as simple as, “I’m interested in therapy and have a few questions.”
You can save more personal details for the appropriate intake process and your conversations with your provider.
Affordable Care and Your Providers
How much does the affordable therapy program cost?
Sessions are $40 each, paid for without using insurance. The program offers online therapy for Texas residents through supervised providers.
There are no financial eligibility requirements. Before you begin, we’ll discuss availability and whether the program fits the support you need.
Why does the program cost less than some other therapy options?
Making therapy affordable is part of why BVOY exists! Vanessa built this program because she cares about helping people access support when cost might otherwise keep them from reaching out.
Our $40 sessions are provided by social work professionals and student interns receiving clinical supervision. This approach allows BVOY to make care more accessible while supporting the next generation of providers.
Do I need to be uninsured or meet an income requirement?
No! Having insurance doesn’t disqualify you, and you don’t need to demonstrate financial hardship. You’re welcome to explore the program if you’re looking for a more affordable way to access therapy.
If you’d prefer to use insurance, you can explore care with Vanessa separately from the $40 affordable program. Insurance options include:
- Aetna
- Cigna
- Carelon Behavioral Health
- Ascension SmartHealth
- Curative
- Independence Blue Cross Pennsylvania
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas
How do payments and insurance claims work?
We want you to know what to expect before your appointment! Payment is due at the time of service, and BVOY accepts debit and credit card payments through Sessions Health.
For insurance care, claims are filed for you through the applicable billing process, and you’re responsible for your copays. Confirm your payment arrangements and expected costs before your first visit. If something is unclear, please ask so we can help you plan.
Who will I meet with, and what does supervised care mean?
Our affordable-program providers include Isabel “Iszy,” an LMSW working under clinical supervision, and Cynthia Jimenez, an MSW student intern. You can get to know them on our Meet the Team page before reaching out!
Supervision provides clinical guidance and support for their work. Before you begin, we’ll explain your provider’s role, who supervises them, and how supervision relates to your care and confidentiality. Your questions are welcome. We want you to understand who is involved in your care.
APPOINTMENTS AND WHAT TO EXPECT
Where can I receive therapy with BVOY?
Our $40 affordable program offers online therapy for Texas residents. You can connect from a private, comfortable space without traveling to an office!
Vanessa is also licensed in Texas and Virginia, separately from the affordable team’s Texas-only program. Tell us where you’re located and which service interests you, and Vanessa can help clarify your options and availability.
Are appointments online or in person?
BVOY currently offers therapy online through telehealth. You’ll need a private place to talk and a reliable internet connection.
New to online therapy? You’re welcome to ask how it works! We can explain what to expect before your first appointment.
How long are sessions, and how often will we meet?
Sessions can last up to 50 minutes. You and your provider will discuss how often to meet and the goals you’d like to work toward.
You don’t have to plan your entire therapy journey before beginning! You can ask questions and revisit the plan together as your needs change.
What if I need to cancel or reschedule?
We understand that plans can change. Please give at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or move your appointment.
Changes or cancellations within 24 hours, and missed appointments, incur the fee specified in your intake documents. This is the full applicable fee rather than your insurance copay. Please review the amount and policy before starting care, and ask your provider if anything is unclear.
What if I’m running late?
Please email or call your therapist as soon as you can! Your session will still end at its scheduled time so appointments afterward can begin on time.
If your therapist hasn’t heard from you within 15 minutes of your scheduled start, the appointment is treated as a no-show under the practice policy.
