About me - Dr. Yuko Hanakawa

Psychologists and psychiatrists are both mental health professionals, but they have different approaches to treatment and qualifications. Psychologists typically hold a Ph.D. or Psy.D. in psychology and focus on providing talk therapy and counseling services to individuals, couples, and groups. They often use various therapeutic techniques to help clients manage and overcome emotional and psychological issues. On the other hand, psychiatrists are medical doctors (M.D. or D.O.) who specialize in mental health. They can prescribe medication and offer a range of medical treatments for mental health conditions. While some psychiatrists also provide therapy, their primary role is often medication management. In summary, the main distinction lies in their approach: psychologists primarily provide therapy and counseling, while psychiatrists are medical professionals who can prescribe medication and offer a broader range of medical treatments for mental health conditions. Depending on your specific needs, you may choose one or both types of professionals to address your mental health concerns.

Counseling and therapy are two terms often used interchangeably, but they do have distinct differences. Both are forms of mental health support, but they vary in their focus, duration, and goals. Counseling is typically a shorter-term process that aims to address specific issues or immediate concerns. It often focuses on practical problem-solving, skill-building, and coping strategies. Counseling is well-suited for individuals dealing with specific life challenges, such as relationship issues, grief, or career transitions. It tends to be more solution-focused and goal-oriented. Therapy, on the other hand, is a broader and more comprehensive approach to addressing emotional and psychological issues. It can be long-term and explores the deeper underlying causes of emotional distress or mental health conditions. Therapy delves into the past, patterns of behavior, and thought processes to promote self-awareness, healing, and personal growth. It's beneficial for individuals with complex or chronic mental health concerns like depression, anxiety disorders, or trauma. In summary, counseling is often shorter-term and solution-focused, while therapy is a more in-depth and long-term exploration of underlying issues. The choice between counseling and therapy depends on your specific needs and goals, and a mental health professional can help determine which approach is most appropriate for you!

Yes and no. While I am not an 'in-network provider,' if your insurance plan offers out-of-network benefits, typically associated with PPO plans, you can submit superbills for reimbursement. In order for you to find out your reimbursement rates, it's best to refer to your insurance booklet or information in your portal, or call them directly. When you call, you can inquire about the reimbursement rates for the CPT code 90834 (45 minutes) or 90837 (60 minutes). Here are some helpful questions to ask when you call your insurance company: Do I have out-of-network benefits for psychotherapy? Do I have a deductible? How much is it? What percentage of my bill will be covered after my deductible is met? What is the insurance company’s usual and customary fee for CPT codes 90834 (45 minutes session) or 90837 (60 minutes session)? Helpful Tips for Potential Patients: Verify if your insurance plan includes out-of-network mental health coverage. Keep your insurance booklet or online portal information handy for reference. When calling your insurance company, be prepared to ask about specific CPT codes, as cited above, for accurate rate information. As of January 16, 2024, I have opted out of Medicare and will no longer accept Medicare or Medigap insurance, so Medicare beneficiaries will need to consider this when seeking services. If you are looking for a therapist who is in-network with your insurance, you can utilize healthcare-focused search platforms like ZocDoc, Headway, or Alma (helloalma.com). These platforms can help you find in-network therapists who accept your insurance and provide services that match your needs.