RENEE HONG THERAPY
frequently asked questions
What is telehealth?
Telehealth is the provision of healthcare services using technology, such as videoconferencing software or phone calls. I exclusively provide telehealth services for all therapy modalities, which means that all our sessions will occur in real time over video call. I utilize HIPAA-compliant videoconferencing software that maintains the confidentiality of your protected health information during each appointment.
How do we get started?
You can contact me through email, phone call, or text message and I will respond within 72 hours. I will reach out to schedule a free 20-minute video consultation with you to determine if we are a good fit for each other. If we decide to move forward, we'll schedule our first therapy appointment and I will send you a link to the secure online client portal to complete intake paperwork.
What can I expect during my first therapy appointment?
I will review with you the major points of informed consent and clarify any questions you may have regarding confidentiality. The first session (or few) is dedicated to assessment and treatment planning. What this means is that I will be asking you a lot of questions about the main concern that brings you to therapy, gathering more detailed information on your personal history, and collaborating with you on your goals in treatment. The initial assessment phase can be a little overwhelming because I will be asking about sensitive topics, but the more you are willing to share with me, the better I can understand your situation and how to best support you.
How frequently should I attend therapy?
Everyone's healing journey is different, and the length of treatment depends on the nature of your concerns, situation, goals for therapy, and engagement in the process. The hard work of therapy takes place outside of our appointments, and progress is typically non-linear. Due to the intimate nature of therapy in exploring emotional blocks and pain points, you may feel worse before you feel better.
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I recommend an initial commitment of 6 sessions on a weekly basis. The reason for this is threefold. The first reason is that the initial session(s) will be used for assessment and treatment planning, and so the actual therapy work does not begin until that part is complete. The second reason is that it takes time for us to build rapport, which is comfort and trust in the working relationship. The third is that it takes time for change to occur in therapy, and after 6 sessions is when you will have a fairly good sense of whether it's working out or not.
What are your working hours?
I offer weekday evening and weekend appointments.​ I work Tuesdays through Thursdays from 4pm to 10pm, and on Fridays and Sundays from 12pm to 6pm. Emergency appointments may be requested outside of these hours based on need.
What is your cancellation/rescheduling policy?
I have a 24-hour cancellation policy. If you are unable to attend your appointment, you must cancel or request to reschedule at least 24 hours in advance of the scheduled appointment time. Late cancellations within the 24-hour window and no shows will be charged the full session fee. More on the cost of therapy and using your health insurance can be found on the fees and insurance page.
How do you protect my health information?
Under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), you have certain rights regarding the use and disclosure of your protected health information (PHI). My Notice of Privacy Practices details how I handle, maintain, and disclose your PHI in regard to your treatment.
I have another question that hasn't been answered!
Feel free to contact me if you have any other questions or concerns regarding starting the therapy process or my practice. I look forward to connecting with you!
notices to clients
The Board of Behavioral Sciences receives and responds to complaints regarding services provided within the scope of practice of marriage and family therapists. You may contact the board online at www.bbs.ca.gov or by calling (916) 574-7830.
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You have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” explaining how much your medical and mental health care will cost. For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises or call (800) 985-3059.
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My Notice of Privacy Practices delineates how I handle, maintain, and disclose protected health information (PHI) as a therapist.