Frequently Asked Questions
Are you taking on new clients at this time?
Yes! I'm taking on new clients remotely via video. If you're not sure about trying therapy online, set up a brief video consultation at no charge to experience for yourself what it feels like.
Have you always offered video sessions?
I've been providing therapy remotely since 2015. I've seen wonderful results come from meeting this way, and research supported the effectiveness of meeting remotely long before the pandemic. What matters most is that you and I click.
Why do you offer a free initial consultation?
Opening up to someone new can be daunting. Before booking a session, a consultation gives you a chance to tell me a bit about what's bringing you in. You can get a sense of what it feels like speaking with me and ask any questions you have about me and my practice.
It also allows me to confirm that I'm a good fit for you and what you want to work on. If we click, we can schedule a session together.
How do I make an appointment?
The best way to schedule is online. You can instantly see my up-to-date availability, view your options and schedule at a time that’s most convenient for you. You can makes changes to our appointment through the platform as well.
You're also welcome to contact me directly at 323-323-1325 or damondodge@therapyforresults.com.
What are your office hours?
Mondays through Thursdays from 12pm–7pm PT, 1pm–8pm MT, 3pm–10pm ET.
What can I expect in the first session?
We're just going to talk. No forms, no questionnaires—you’re simply going to discuss where you are right now, how you got here and where you want to go from here.
No forms? Really?
Don’t get too excited. I'll send you documents to complete prior to your session. This includes required consents for treatment and some details about your history, all of which are completed online. This way, we spend our session time talking about what you want to talk about.
How often do we meet?
Meeting consistently is essential for effective therapy. Sessions are generally scheduled weekly. Ideally, we will arrange to meet the same day/time each week—this will be your time.
How long is a typical session?
Weekly sessions are generally 50 minutes. More frequent sessions, longer sessions and phone check-ins are sometimes warranted, all of which can be discussed.
What is the cost for sessions, and how do I pay?
The fee for sessions is $250. All clients have a credit card on file, which is billed within 24 hours of each appointment.
Do you take insurance?
I am considered an “out-of-network” provider. This means I don't bill through insurance companies or submit claims on your behalf.
Instead, you pay directly at time of service and then seek potential reimbursement from your insurance provider later. I highly recommend checking with your insurance company about reimbursement prior to beginning sessions.
Can I use my Health Savings Account (HSA)?
Therapy is a common HSA expense and may be permitted by your health insurance program. I encourage you to consult with your benefits provider prior to beginning sessions to explore this option.
Is therapy tax deductible?
Therapy for a diagnosable condition like anxiety and depression can potentially be a “medical expense itemized deduction.” I encourage you to consult a tax advisor to explore this option.
What is your cancellation policy?
You will be charged in full for all scheduled appointments unless you provide 24-hour’s notice of cancellation or rescheduling.
This policy is based on time, not the situation. (I'm genuinely sorry if you've been abducted by aliens, and I will keep you in my thoughts).
How do you work with clients?
The formal answer to this is that I work from a Strengths-Based, Existential and Solution-Focused perspective. In plain English: we talk one human to another about what it's like to live in this ever-changing world. In those conversations, I help you rediscover your strengths, which are the tools you use to reach your goals.
Do you only work with men?
I work with people of all gender identities and have a wide variety of clients! While I am purposeful about inviting men into the process of therapy (often for the first time), I am passionate about helping anyone and everyone I can.
Are you going to make me cry?
I'm not going to “make you" do anything. Truth is though, we don’t have that many places to let it all out. Sometimes, therapy involves tears; we can just agree it’s an involuntary allergic reaction to your feelings.