Frequently Asked Questions

  • Telehealth involves the use of videoconferencing or store-and-forward technology to provide or support health care delivery. The standard of care remains the same whether services are provided in person, via telehealth, or through other electronically enabled methods. Fees for telehealth sessions are the same as for in-person care.

    We use a HIPAA-compliant platform to ensure your privacy and security. However, privacy on your end depends on your environment, so it’s important to join sessions from a private, quiet space where you feel comfortable speaking openly.

  • LCSW stands for Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a professional title earned by individuals possessing a master's degree in social work from a school accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. An LCSW is required to have completed 3200 hours of supervised work experience and successfully passed the Social Work Boards (ASWB) examination. Operating independently and without the need for supervision, an LCSW plays a pivotal role in patient care.

    On the other hand, ACSW, or Associate Clinical Social Worker, refers to individuals who have obtained a master's degree in social work from an accredited institution. An ACSW is currently in the process of accumulating 3200 hours of work experience under the close supervision of an LCSW.

    While the licenses differ, the commitment to patient well-being remains constant. Our ACSWs collaborate closely with LCSWs on all cases and receive continuous supervision to ensure high-quality clinical practice.

  • Coaching is not regulated by the government. In other words, there are no state or federal laws nor regulations that govern coaching as a profession or define a scope of practice for those who offer coaching services. Any person can label himself or herself as a coach. Coaching does not require a license, specific education, or experience.

    Legally, coaches are not psychotherapists. The practice of psychotherapy, whether as a marriage and family therapist, clinical social worker, psychologist, or professional clinical counselor, is defined under state law. The scope of therapy practice includes the use, application, and integration of the diagnosis, assessment, prognosis, and treatment of mental disorders.

    Because coaching is not psychotherapy and because clients are not considered patients under the laws that protect psychotherapy patients, coaching clients could not successfully assert the psychotherapist-patient privilege in regard to records that may exist and/or information that may have been shared as the result of a coaching relationship. In other words, coaching clients have right to privacy, but this right does not carry the same legal or ethical protections as the confidentiality granted for psychotherapy clients.

  • Many people start therapy when they’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or want guidance navigating life transitions—such as changes in relationships, work, or personal goals. You don’t need to be in crisis to benefit; therapy can also be a space for self-discovery, skill building, and growth. If you’re unsure whether therapy is the right fit, you can request a free 15-minute consultation to discuss your needs and explore how we can best support you.

  • Disability Insurance (DI) provides short-term wage replacement benefits to eligible California workers who have a loss of wages when they are unable to work due to a non-work-related illness, injury, or pregnancy. (1) You might be eligible for State Disability Insurance (SDI) as a patient/client and/or a caregiver, you may be covered by one of two benefits: Disability Insurance (DI) or Paid Family Leave (PFL). (2)

    According to EDD, the following physicians/practitioners can certify claims: Licensed medical or osteopathic physician/practitioners; Authorized medical officer of a U.S. Government facility; Chiropractor; Podiatrist; Optometrist; Dentist; Psychologist; Nurse practitioner; physician assistant; Licensed midwife, nurse-midwife, or nurse practitioner for normal pregnancy or childbirth; Accredited religious practitioner (2). Psychotherapists are not listed as practitioners that can certify disability claims.

    With that being said, Allied Healers BH is unable to manage your disability claim due to State regulations. However, we are more than happy to work with your physician(s) and provide information necessary in regards to your mental health diagnosis, treatment and your current level of functioning. (A release of information form must be signed by you for us to coordinate with your providers.)

    (1) About the State Disability Insurance Program

    (2) Roles of Physicians/Practitioners in State Disability Insurance

  • Under Section 2799B-6 of the Public Health Service Act, health care providers and health care facilities are required to provide a good faith estimate of expected charges for items and services to individuals who are not enrolled in a plan or coverage or a Federal health care program, or not seeking to file a claim with their plan or coverage both orally and in writing, upon request or at the time of scheduling health care items and services. You must submit a written request to us in person or email to admin@alliedhealersbh.com. A good faith estimate will be provided within 3 business days upon request. For more information or questions about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, you can visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises or or call 1-800-985-3059.