"Queer-ies"

Q: If I do not identify as LGBT, is the institute for human identity an appropriate place for me to seek therapy?
A: Certainly, yes! We welcome everyone and do not categorize people according to their sexual identity and preferences.

Q: How do I make payment for sessions?
A: You can pay by cash or check. We do not accept credit/debit cards. Payment is due prior to each session.

Q: What insurance do you accept?
A: We are currently only accepting GHI and Value Options. For the most up-to-date information, please call us at 212-243-2830.

If you have insurance with out-of-network coverage, a percentage of your fee may be reimbursed directly to you by your insurance company. If so, we will gladly provide you with a monthly claim form that you may submit to your insurance company for reimbursement.

If you are using insurance benefits, you are responsible for your co-payment prior to each session. You will be responsible for the full fee for any missed or cancelled sessions, as we cannot bill your insurance company for missed sessions. See below for more information about ihi's cancellation policy.

Our regular sessions for individual therapy are $100, however, we do offer a sliding scale fee based on income.

Q: What is your cancellation policy?
A: When a regular appointment time is set for you, that hour is reserved for your exclusive use, and you will therefore be charged in full for any missed or cancelled sessions. ihi will not charge for up to 3 missed sessions per year if at least 24-hours notice is given. This includes time off for vacation, illness, or an emergency.

Q: I understand that if I use insurance, you have to give me a psychiatric diagnosis. How confidential is that?
A: In order to use your insurance benefits, your therapist will need to give you a psychiatric diagnosis that is submitted to your insurance company. In addition, your insurance provider may ask us for progress reports and details about your treatment here at ihi.

There are congressionally enforced regulations (HIPAA Privacy Rule) that are designed to keep your Protected Health Information (PHI) private, which includes your diagnosis. Although ihi will not share your diagnosis with any entity or party without your written consent, we do not have control over how securely the insurance company maintain your information. If that makes you uncomfortable, it is advisable not to use your insurance benefits.

Q: Is therapy confidential?
A: Yes, your therapy is confidential. There are a few exceptions to this rule required by law. If there is suspected abuse of a child or elderly independent in your care or clear reason to believe you are a physical threat to the safety and well-being of yourself or someone else, your therapist is required by law to notify the appropriate authorities. If you have any questions, talk to your therapist.

Q: Do you keep files on the people who come to ihi for therapy?
A: Yes, so that we can track your progress. Also, because psychotherapy is considered to be a medical procedure by the state and insurance companies, records must be kept to satisfy those requirements. All of our records, however, are confidential and can only be released with your written permission that also specifies who may see them. However, be advised that your insurance company has automatic access to your records - you must sign over confidentiality when you sign an insurance form to use your benefits.

Q: Why do you want people to come every week for therapy rather than on an as needed basis?
A: Most personal issues cannot be resolved in a haphazard fasion. Just like you can't learn to play the piano if you don't practice regularly, and can't be a good basketball player if you don't stick at it, you can't get a good grip on your personal issues if you don't work on them in a steady, steadfastly way. Therapy is most effective when sessions are held weekly.

Q: How can I get in touch with my therapist?
A: Your therapist may be reached by calling the main office number: 212-243-2830. We ask that all clients refrain from using email to communicate with ihi or your therapist regarding your treatment or cancellations, aswe cannot guarantee confidentiality or timeliness of email transmissions.

Q: What do I do if I don't get along with my therapist?
A: We encourage you to discuss the problem with your therapist. If you are uncomfortable doing so, or can't work things out, we will refer you to another therapist.

Q: I'm interested in attending an upcoming family Q workshop. Who should I contact?
A: You can make a reservation by calling us at 212-243-2830.