Frequently asked questions
Do you take insurance?
Yes, we are in network with Aetna, Aetna EAP, Cigna, Cigna EAP and Optum. Alvarado Counseling Services provides superbills to clients who have out of network coverage. Superbills are forms submitted by the client for partial reimbursements to their insurance/PPO or related plan. Amount varies per plan and the client is responsible for confirming with their insurance prior to starting therapy and submitting their superbills for reimbursement. Therapist has no contact with insurance companies with private pay clients.
Do you offer in-person therapy?
We offer very limited in-person sessions on Thursday afternoons. The majority of our therapy appointments are held online via Telehealth.
What is telehealth therapy?
Telehealth therapy is also called “telemedicine”, or “online therapy”. Telehealth is a video conference with Therapist and client(s) using a HIPAA compliant video software. AFC utilizes the telehealth features in our Electronic Health Records Program (EHR), Simple Practice to help make the process seamless for our clients.
How long are my appointments
50 minutes. 50 minutes is also known as a “therapy hour”.
Do I have to do therapy weekly?
No, but for best results we strongly recommend attending weekly. There are limited bi-weekly appointments available.
Do you offer sliding scale appointments?
Yes, we have a limited amount of sliding scale appointments to offer with proof of lower income.
Where are you located?
AFC registered as a business in the City of Rancho Cucamonga, CA. Limited, in-person sessions are held in Rancho Cucamonga, CA.
Can I see you as a therapist even if I don’t live in Rancho Cucamonga?
Yes, I can see you as a client as long as you reside in the state of California.
Do you offer CBT? What is it?
Yes. (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) A psycho-social intervention that aims to reduce symptoms of various mental health conditions, primarily depression and anxiety disorders. CBT aims to help you deal with overwhelming problems in a more positive way by breaking them down into smaller parts.
Do you offer DBT? What is it?
Yes. (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) Is an evidence-based psychotherapy that began with efforts to treat personality disorders and interpersonal conflicts. There is evidence that DBT can be useful in treating mood disorders, suicidal ideation, and for change in behavioral patterns such as self-harm and substance use.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept debit cards, credit card or cash (in-person only)
What’s the youngest client you’ll see?
12 years-old.
Can I book a same day appointment?
No.
Are you a psychiatrist or a psychologist?
We are neither and fall under Therapist, Counselor or Psychotherapist.
Can you write a prescription?
No, you will need to contact your primary doctor or psychiatrist for medicine prescriptions.
Do you offer testing?
No, you will need to contact a psychologist for mental or educational testing.