Private Practice in Counseling

Riding out the economic storm

Robert J. Walsh and Norman C. Dasenbrook March 14, 2009

Q: It appears that the economy is not going to pull out of this downturn anytime in the near future. What impact will a poor economy have on professional counselors in private practice? A: Just like trying to predict the stock market, no one knows for certain what will happen. There is no crystal ball…continue reading

Superbill gets super response

Robert J. Walsh and Norman C. Dasenbrook August 1, 2008

We were surprised and gratified by readers’ response to the information about using a superbill in our August 2007 column and have received almost 100 requests to date for examples of our superbill. With the superbill option, the counselor can collect the fee at the time of the session. The client then sends the superbill…continue reading

It’s time to get your NPI number

Robert J. Walsh and Norman C. Dasenbrook June 2, 2008

Q: Why would I need a National Provider Identifier number if I never plan to electronically bill insurance or managed health care companies? A: By May 23, 2007, counselors will need a National Provider Identifier number whether they bill an insurance company electronically, through a website or via paper HCFA. Let’s back up a minute,…continue reading

Using the ’community standard’ to set fees

Robert J. Walsh and Norman C. Dasenbrook

Q: What is the best method for determining what to charge for counseling in private practice? A: Putting a monetary value on what we do in the counseling profession can be difficult. After all, we are caring professionals who want to help first and worry about money second. But if you want to survive and…continue reading

The complications of sliding fee scales

Robert J. Walsh and Norman C. Dasenbrook April 3, 2008

In this month’s column, we want to address a question sent in to us by many members of the American Counseling Association. This issue has to do with private practice billing, particularly the issue of using a sliding fee scale. We will offer our opinion from the viewpoint of private practitioners, while ACA Chief Professional…continue reading