Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What can I expect before my first consultation?

We have new patient paperwork forms that you can be obtained from the Forms tab above. Please complete and return to our office by email to drtownsendoffice@gmail.com.  Please include a picture of your id and insurance card(s) with your email.  Completed paperwork is required in order for us to schedule your appointment.

We thank you for choosing Dr. Townsend and Associates, P.A. for your counseling and evaluation needs.  We respect your time and would like to provide you with a full 45 minute session.  In order for your therapist to spend the full 45 minutes scheduled for your appointment we ask that you follow the following steps.

For an in office appointment:

    • Arrive 10 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment time.
    • When you arrive, please have your fully completed forms with you and provide them to the receptionist.
    • Please have a photo id available.
    • If you plan to file insurance for your visits, you must have your insurance card with you at your first visit.

For a Telehealth appointment:

    • Complete and return the aforementioned forms in advance. You may return them by email (drtownsendoffice@gmail.com), fax (904-797-2820), mail (9 St. Johns Medical Park Drive, Ste. A 32086) or drop them off to our office.
    • Please email a picture of your photo ID and Insurance card to drtownsendoffice@gmail.com

It is important to note, your payment, co-payment or deductible is due at the time of your appointment. 

Q: How long are appointments?

Most outpatient mental health counseling appointments at our practice are 45 minutes in length. On occasion, your therapist may recommend a 60 minute appointment, if more time is needed.

Q: What will be discussed at my first appointment?

During your first appointment, your therapist will conduct an assessment to help determine what your needs are and how we can help. Your mental and physical health history will be discussed. You may be advised that additional testing or referrals are needed. We will discuss these plans with you prior to setting additional appointments.

Q: What if I am having difficulty affording my co-pay/co-insurance/deductible amount due?

We here at Dr. Townsend and Associates know that sometimes difficulties arise that may prevent you from being able to afford your fees for the services we provide. We offer several options for our patients when this occurs. Please contact our office to discuss payment arrangement options prior to your appointment.

Q: Is my insurance plan accepted?

We accept most insurance plans. The most common plans that we accept are:

AARP
Aetna (evaluations only)
Anthem
BCBS
FHCP
Medicare
UMR
United HealthCare
 

If you do not see your insurance plan listed above contact us and we would be happy to aid you in determine if we are able to file your insurance plan and verify your insurance benefits.

Q: How do I know if I would benefit from outpatient mental health counseling?

Listed below are just a few common indicators that counseling would be helpful to you:

    – You have persistent changes in your mood (feeling down, anxious, or angry much more than what feels normal for you).
    – You have a tough time finding positive things to say about yourself.
    – You feel self-conscious in social situations.
    – You don’t understand why you act like you do and/or feel like no one understands you.
    – You feel like you need some changes in your life, but don’t know how to begin.
    – Your relationships are stressful and you don’t get along with loved ones as well as you used to.
    – You have had a major life change in areas such as relationships, employment, health status, or physical ability.
    – You have lost someone close to you through death, divorce, or distance.
    – Someone has told you that you “don’t seem like yourself” lately.

     

     

    Frequent Concerns Regarding Outpatient Mental Health Therapy:

    1. I don’t want to appear “weak” or “crazy” because I cannot handle my problems.

    Each person goes through some time in their life which overwhelms their natural coping abilities. There is tremendous strength in acknowledging you may need some help, even on a short-term basis. Our experienced and caring professional counselors will help you assess your needs and suggest answers to your problems.

    2. I don’t want people to know I’m getting help.

    Our staff takes your privacy VERY seriously. Your services are completely confidential. The exception to this rule is if we discuss something that may result in harm to yourself or someone else.

    3. Talking to a therapist won’t help me. I can already talk to my friends.

    A relationship with family or friends is different than a relationship with a therapist. We have specific training and background in scientifically-proven techniques to assist you in examining your challenges. The support of friends will be helpful in the healing process, but we encourage you to add professionally-guided direction, as well.