How It Works

How can I start working with Lotus Wellness?

Please complete the New Client Request Form on the website to get started. Free consultations are available if you would like more information before scheduling. If we can't fit you in, we will make sure to provide you with a good referral.

What do I need to do to prepare for my first session?

Once scheduled, you will receive an email with an invitation to complete the required intake paperwork through DocuSign (fyi - this software works best on a computer rather than a mobile device). If you prefer to meet in person, you also have the option to fill out this paperwork in person before your session. Please arrive 15 minutes early if you plan to fill out the paperwork in person. If these forms are not completed and submitted before your first appointment, you will be asked to complete this paperwork during your first session, taking time away from your appointment. The following forms will be requested:

• Basic Client Information

• Notice of Privacy Practices/HIPAA

• Office Policies Agreement

• Credit Card Authorization Form

• Insurance Authorization Form

• Telehealth Consent (if applicable)

• Releases of Information (if applicable)

You will also be invited to sign up for the online portal. This is where you can view your upcoming appointments: https://www.therapyportal.com/p/lotuswellness15206/

You will be emailed an appointment reminder about 2 days before every appointment. To reduce the chance that reminder emails will go into spam folders, please add appointmentreminders@therapyportal.com to your contacts. You can opt out if you wish to not receive appointment reminder emails.

Where do I go for my appointment if I’m scheduled for an in-person session?

When it’s time for your appointment, come to the office at the Kenmawr Apartments on 401 Shady Avenue. There is a small parking lot and free street parking along Shady Ave and Walnut Ave.

The front door is typically unlocked and guarded by a doorman (if the door is not open, please call the office directly at 412-407-4068 to be let in). Make yourself at home in the main waiting area. Your therapist will come out to meet you when it's time for your session. Sessions are generally 45-50 minutes in length.

What do I do for my appointment if I’m scheduled for a virtual session?

If you prefer to meet virtually, you’ll be sent a telehealth invite using the HIPAA compliant telemedicine software, Doxyme. Virtual invitations are typically sent 1-2 days before your session. To log on, simply click on the link from your invitation email. A phone/tablet app is also available for your use.

How do I pay for my session?

You have the option to self-pay or to use health insurance. Currently, our therapists are in-network providers for UPMC, Highmark, Aetna, United/Optum, and Cigna.

It is very important that you find out exactly what mental health services your insurance policy covers including your copay, your deductible, if you have met it, and if not, how much is left. You may call the number on the back of your insurance card to find out this information.

A valid credit card is required to be on file at all times. We will automatically charge for your deductible/copay/coinsurance/self-pay rates at the end of each session. Checks can be made out to Lotus Wellness PGH.

The service fees are listed below, please review our Office Policies Agreement for more information on fees:

• 60 minute intake evaluation: $ 125

• 50 minute therapy session: $ 110

• Unpaid Copayment: $ 5

• Returned Check: $ 15

• Credit Card Processing Fee: $ 2.6%

• False Credit Card Chargebacks: $ 25

• Letter/requested reports: $ 25

Will my session be confidential?

All sessions are provided under strict confidentiality. Whatever is shared in session will not be disclosed to anyone outside of your permission. There are a few exceptions to this (such as minor-guardian relationships, court mandated information, safety precautions, suspected child/elder abuse etc.) which will all be reviewed upon your first appointment.

Maintaining confidentiality also includes how your therapist will act if you see each other in public, as well as our social media policy, which can all be reviewed in the Office Policy Agreement.  

What is the cancellation policy?

Your time is set aside just for you. If you need to change your appointment, please give as much notice as possible. There will be a $50 charge for any missed appointment with less than 24 hours of notice. There will be a $100 charge for any no-show appointments.