Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ Topics

  1. How do I contact Russow Consulting?
  2. How much do the services cost?
  3. What forms of payment are accepted?
  4. How long do sessions last?
  5. Do I have to make a long-term commitment to services?
  6. Are telehealth services available?
  7. Does insurance cover these services?
  8. Will the services be provided by a credentialed health care provider?
  9. How can I make an appointment or receive more information?
  10. Will my records be available for others to see?
  11. Can I receive services anonymously?
 

1. How do I contact Russow Consulting?

That's an easy one!  We have a whole page of its own devoted to answering that question in great detail.  There are several ways to contact us.  Visit our Contact Info page now.

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2. How much do the services cost?

The cost will vary depending upon which of the services you are seeking and the length of time involved. Rates will be determined by your insurer or other third party payor in accordance with the terms of your contract. For those who do not have insurance or a separate source of payment and are unable to afford the usual and customary fees, a sliding fee scale is available.

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3. What forms of payment are accepted?

For any copay, coinsurance, or self-pay fee, check, money order, bank check, and cash are currently accepted. We are not able to accept credit cards, debit cards, FSA cards, HSA cards, or cryptocurrency. We do not utilize third party e-commerce services, digital platforms, or apps such as PayPal, Venmo, or Zelle. Upon request some HSA and FSA sponsors can issue blank checks for use at venues that do not accept plastic.

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4. How long do sessions last?

That depends partly on the type of service and partly on the wishes of the client.  In general, a typical office session lasts 45-55 minutes which is considered a clinical hour.  Certain services such as assessment & evaluation can only be done in specified blocks of time.  Consultation and psychotherapy counseling sessions can be of shorter (brief) or longer (full) duration depending upon various factors.

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5. Do I have to make a long-term commitment to services?

Not at all.  You are under no obligation to receive or continue services you do not desire.  Some people can be helped after only one session, while others choose to continue on for much longer periods of time.  Every case is decided individually between the client and the doctor.  However, please be aware that for certain problems some types of services may not be beneficial if discontinued prematurely.  There is often a recommended length of time for these to be administered. 

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6. Are telehealth services available?

Russow Consulting primarily provides in-person, office-based services and all reasonable precautions are taken to protect the well being of everyone present. However, telehealth services, sometimes referred to as telemedicine or teletherapy, using secure digital video and/or audio platforms are available to established therapy and counseling clients who are unable to meet in person. At this time, we are not accepting new clients seeking treatment only via telehealth and anyone who wants to utilize that service should be willing to appear in person for the majority of their visits. To what extent telehealth is covered by an insurer depends upon the particular policy and applicable regulations. Psychodiagnostic testing and assessment services are only conducted in the office because specific materials are required and certain skills or abilities cannot be measured fully over the Internet.

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7. Does insurance cover these services?

Some services currently provided by Russow Consulting are paid for by the client directly for a number of reasons.  Some insurance plans will cover some services, such as evaluation, psychotherapy, or counseling, but only if they are provided in the office setting.  Many insurance contracts do not pay for telephone or ongoing consultation although the details will vary depending upon your particular insurance.  Many do not cover testing or assessment so these services must be paid directly.  You will need to check with your carrier about the details.  Some people end up on a self-pay basis even if there is some reimbursement for services because insurers today tend to cover only acute or short-term treatment.  Also, some insurance companies restrict where you can receive services and from whom.

Please be aware that insurers have the right to review your records as a condition of payment, something you may have seen in your contract when you signed up for the insurance.

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8. Will the services be provided by a credentialed health care provider?

Yes!  Dr. Russow is a licensed clinical psychologist with decades of experience providing direct diagnostic and treatment services to people with diverse backgrounds and needs.  She has worked with many different populations using numerous techniques and approaches.  She is dedicated to helping others unlock their potential so they may receive all the respect they deserve.

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9. How can I make an appointment or receive more information?

You are welcome to call (585) 442‑4447.  See additional details on our Request Appointment page.

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10. Will my records be available for others to see?

Except as outlined in our Privacy Policy your records are confidential.  If you want them to be released to someone else we will need you to sign a Consent for Release of Information form and provide all relevant mailing information. 

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11. Can I receive services anonymously?

We do not provide services to those who fail to disclose accurate identifying information for several reasons: First, we believe it is hard to establish and maintain a proper therapeutic relationship with someone who has difficulty being honest and disclosing. Second, it prevents compliance with regulatory standards for record keeping and provision of services. Third, it is dangerous for someone to want or need help and then prevent the receipt of help by refusing to provide necessary information. Fourth, most payment methods require the disclosure of personal information in order to process transactions correctly. No one wants to deal with financial document difficulties and we want to ensure the safety of all concerned. Rest assured that we will always do our best to respect your privacy to the fullest extent possible.

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It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you persevere.