Frequently Asked Questions
How Should I Prepare for a Testing Appointment?
Make sure to complete all intake paperwork through the client portal. Take some extra time to rest the day before and recouperate your energy the day after. Spend some time thinking of examples of your experiences that fit and don't fit with the possible diagnosis. If a caregiver from your childhood is available, consider asking them about when you reached various developmental milestones such as talking and walking, and asking them for stories about you as a child in case it jogs your memory. Feel free to bring any items you may want to use for stimming or sensory needs, or any drinks or snacks you might want.
Are Accommodations Available During the Appointment?
Absolutely! Anything that is reasonably possible that makes you more comfortable can be done. You are welcome to stim. Do not feel the need to make eye contact if it's uncomfortable for you. You can bring earplugs or headphones. You can move around while we work if you like. We can take frequent breaks. You can write or text at times if you prefer that to talking. We can do video chat for most sessions if that is what works for you. You can bring an adult family member or friend if you like.
Can I Bring My Partner, Friend, or Family Member?
For therapy, it is generally preferred that you attend on your own for your privacy and autonomy, but if you feel that you need a support person for the first session, or a particularly difficult session, that is totally fine. If it's an in-person session, let Dr. Gaines know in advance so she can book a bigger room if one is available. For testing, if it makes you more comfortable and/or you feel the person could provide important additional information for the diagnostic determination, let Dr. Gaines know you'd like to bring them along and we can discuss which portions they may be able to attend with you.
How soon after the Testing Ends will I Receive My Report?
After the testing ends, reports are typically ready within approximately 10 business days.
Do you do evaluate or treat children or teens under age 18?
At this time, the practice is limited to serving the needs of adults (ages 18+). However, if you would like to be placed on a call list if we should decide to expand services to adolescents or younger children, please email us and we will get back in touch if those services become available.
How do you determine the cost of the evaluation?
Dr. Gaines aims to keep the cost of evaluations as affordable as possible, to be able to serve a wide range of clients while still earning enough to cover her time and expenses. The evaluation charges are based on time spent, materials, and other operating expenses. For each hour spent with you, Dr. Gaines typically spends an equal or greater number of hours in record review, scoring, interpretation, decision-making, report-writing, and crafting personalized recommendations for your evaluation. In addition, she has to consider covering the cost of office space, testing materials, and other business overhead expenses. You will find that Dr. Gaines fees are very reasonable compared to others for the level of quality provided.
Do you take insurance?
At this time, we accept and are in-network providers for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama. For all other plans, we are currently self-pay, meaning that you are responsible for payment of all fees yourself at the time of services. However, upon request we can provide a Superbill (an invoice with billing codes) that you may choose to file with your insurance to seek reimbursement for yourself. If you do plan to file for any possible out-of-network insurance reimbursement, we strongly recommend checking with your insurance company well ahead of the appointment to ask about reimbursement rates for out-of-network behavioral health services, deductibles, and any other relevant policies. See the Fees page for a form with questions you may want to ask your insurance company.
Can I bring my pet or emotional support animal to the appointments?
Unfortunately, pets or emotional support animals cannot be allowed to accompany you to an in-person evaluation, though official Service Animals are allowed. I do appreciate the great value that pets or emotional support animals can provide some clients, however. If you feel it is essential to have your emotional support animal present, consider video sessions from the comfort of your home for those sessions when it is possible. Give your adorable pet a pat for us, though!