Frequently Asked Questions

How do I schedule my first appointment?

Call or email Dr. Danda to ensure you are a good fit for her services, review financial and office policies, and then schedule the appointment. You will have the option of scheduling with her directly or using the secure client portal online one you are registered and have activated the client portal:  https://drdanda.clientsecure.me

How long is the wait for scheduling an appointment for a new client?

Dr. Danda can typically schedule an initial appointment within 4-8 weeks, depending on your and her availability. She has specific slots reserved for the initial appointment, which occur during the day. Following the initial assessment, afterschool or evening hours may be available. 

Does Dr. Danda have after school, evening, or weekend appointments?

Yes. You can view Dr. Danda’s hours at each location here, which include evening and afterschool hours on certain days. Initial assessments are only scheduled during the daytime hours, but follow up appointments may be scheduled during after school and evening hours, based on availability. She does not have availability on weekends.

What will happen at our first appointment?

At the first appointment, Dr. Danda will gather information about problem areas and their impact on life as well as about strengths and current coping. Dr. Danda may meet with parents first without the child. At the end of the appointment, Dr. Danda provides a brief overview of impressions and treatment plan. As time allows, specific interventions related to the presenting problem may be presented.

What type of therapy does Dr. Danda use?

Dr. Danda uses evidenced-based therapies, with her primary approach rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and associated therapies. Other types of therapies incorporated include Mindfulness, Parent-Child Interaction Therapy, DBT, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. She uses handouts and home assignments to help children and families learn to use strategies outside of session. While therapy is evidence-based, she tailors the therapy to meet the needs of the individual.  

How many sessions will we have?

The number of sessions varies depending on the severity and nature of the presenting concerns as well as how well you and your child can follow recommendations in-between sessions. In some cases, therapy may be quite brief (3 – 6 sessions), but some concerns benefit from more sessions. Dr. Danda works with you to develop a treatment plan that addresses concerns in most cost and time efficient manner and will provide feedback regarding progress throughout therapy.  If you or Dr. Danda determine, at any point, that alternative or additional services with other health care professionals are indicated, she can provide referrals.

What if my spouse and I are divorced or separated and I want my child to receive services?

If you have joint custody, then both parents are required to sign the Divorced/Separated Parents Consent and review the Client Services Agreement. The child is the primary focus of treatment. In order to provide effective treatment and a safe place for the child or adolescent to express feelings and concerns, Dr. Danda does not evaluate or provide recommendations for custody or testify in court. While she works with children and adolescents whose parents may be separated or divorced, she typically refers out when the primary presenting problem is the divorce or separation of parents.

Does Dr. Danda accept insurance?

In order to provide more flexibility in treatment, Dr. Danda does not accept insurance. She is considered an “out of network” provider and does not bill insurance directly (i.e., Dr. Danda is not a participating provider in any insurance plan). If you have out of network benefits, then your insurance company may reimburse you for a portion of the fee. Dr. Danda will provide you with a statement suitable for submitting to your insurance company or for tax purposes. Please check with your insurance company directly to determine about your coverage. For more information, see Insurance under the Financial Policies.

What are the fees for services?

The initial assessment appointment is a flat fee of $300. Subsequent therapy sessions are billed a rate of $160 for a standard 40-50 minute session. For more information, see Financial Policies.

Does Dr. Danda prescribe medications?

Dr. Danda is a psychologist and does not prescribe medication. If necessary, Dr. Danda will work with your physician or make referrals to a psychiatrist to discuss medication options.

Are sessions confidential?

Dr. Danda maintains a strict policy of confidentiality. No information is released without a written release of information except where disclosure is required or allowed by law. You can read the full Privacy Practices as dictated by HIPAA here as well as read about confidentiality in the Client Services Agreement.