Initial inquiries
I would be happy to provide you with additional information so that you can decide whether you think we’d be a good fit. I typically respond within 24 hours to email (drlydia@richardsonpsyd.com), or you can call me at any time at 646-481-5516. If your phone call reaches my voice mail, I will return your call as soon as I possibly can. Most people provide their contact information and share a very brief description of the problems that are leading them to seek therapy. I provide a 20-minute free telephone consultation so that we can determine if I would be a good fit and helpful for your needs.
Scheduling and preparing for your first appointment
If you choose to work with me after we speak on the phone, I will gather all of the information needed for your first 50-minute appointment. If you want to use insurance to pay for therapy, this may include information to verify your policy benefits.
You would then download the client information form and the client packet. These contain the Client Agreement, the Notification of Privacy Practices, the Signature Form, and a Client Information Form. Please print out both documents, sign on the last page of the client agreement, and bring them with you to our first meeting. I give you the option of completing this paperwork in advance so that we can use the first session to focus immediately on how I can help.
Insurance, costs, and payment
I am an in-network provider for Blue Cross Blue Shield Illinois PPO insurance, the Blue Choice network, and Medicare, . I will submit the charges directly to any of these insurance companies on your behalf as long as this is your primary plan and they directly provide your mental health care benefits. You would only be responsible for your deductible and co-payments when we meet.
I am considered an out-of-network provider by other insurance companies. You should contact your plan administrator to determine if you would be partially reimbursed for my services. In these situations, clients pay in full at the time of service, and the insurance company then sends you a check to offset part of your costs consistent with the terms of your policy. I will provide you with a detailed receipt containing all pertinent information so that you may submit to your insurance company for reimbursement.
Some clients choose not to use insurance to maximally safeguard the confidentiality of treatment. I can provide more detailed information about the costs for self-pay and out-of-network clients during your free telephone consultation.
Payment is expected at the time of service. Checks, cash, and credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover) are accepted.
Lydia C. Richardson, Psy.D. 