Lauren Gardner, LCMHC, Ph.D.
Fees, Insurance, and Policies
Fees
Please contact me directly to discuss fees and insurance. Payment is due at the time of session, and cash, check, credit card, Venmo, or PayPal are all accepted.
Initial Consultation
I offer free initial consultations by phone. If you think we might be a good fit, reach out to me and let’s talk! Even if we aren’t a good fit, I may be able to help you find someone who is.
Insurance
I am in-network only with certain Blue Cross Blue Shield plans, including State Employee Health Plan. Please confirm with your provider that I am in network with your particular plan.
Out-of-network benefits also exist on most insurance policies. I am happy to file claims in order to use out-of-network benefits.
Sliding scale and Pro-bono options
I am able to see a limited number of clients at reduced fees. Please contact me directly for more information about availability of sliding-scale appointments. Please note that sliding scale rates are generally not available for evening therapy appointments.
Forms
At your first appointment, there will be a few forms to fill out. Usually we’ll spend the first 15 or so minutes on this process. For telehealth, these forms may be filled out online in advance.
Telehealth Distance Counseling
Distance sessions are done on a secure platform and should be arranged in advance. Please note that you need to be physically in the state of North Carolina for any distance session.
Cancellation Policies
If you need to miss an appointment, contact me as soon as you know. Clients are usually responsible for the full fee if the session is cancelled less than 24 hours in advance. Since insurance will not cover missed sessions, clients are responsible for the fee themselves in such instances. In many cases, telehealth is a good alternative in case of sudden weather, childcare, or transportation issues.
Photo: Briana Woods, 2015-2016. Umstead Park, Raleigh NC