COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How are you offering services during COVID-19?
As we are not yet out of the woods with COVID-19, services are able to be offered via video conference (Zoom), but we are starting to offer in-office appointments. For situations where we are not able to be in-person together, video conferencing is the most effective way of connecting because it allows for seeing one another. A link will be sent to you to use on your computer or smartphone for your appointments.
NOTE: When using video conferencing, it is strongly recommended that you find a location to join the session that is as private as possible and use headphones if you can to protect your confidentiality. Rachel will ask you at the beginning of each session if you are in a private location and consent to video conferencing, and for the address of where you are calling from in case of any emergency.
If you are coming in for an in-person session, please be mindful of ensuring you are physically/medically healthy, so as not to increase risk for either you or your provider.
What is drama therapy?
Drama therapy utilizes creative and active techniques to facilitate therapeutic processes. Part of the definition of drama therapy ofered by the North American Drama Therapy Association states: "Through storytelling, projective play, purposeful improvisation, and performance, participants are invited to rehearse desired behaviors, practice being in relationship, expand and find flexibility between life roles, and perform the change they wish to be and see in the world." (NADTA.org, 2018). Drama therapy can happen in experiential processes, but drama therapists also use storytelling and more talk-based verbal/conversational techniques depending on your needs; drama therapy is a collaborative shared process so it will look different for each individual.
Drama therapy is practiced in a many settings with a wide range of populations; for more information about the definition and different applications of drama therapy, please visit the NADTA website at: http://www.nadta.org
We encourage you to ask any and all questions you may have about this in your first session, and at any time throughout the process.
What can I expect from a counseling or therapy session?
A counselor or therapist is someone who works with you to identify and problem solve life's challenges, and to build the skills needed to move through them. Therapists and counselors work with crisis situations or ongoing challenges, so sessions may occur over shorter periods of time, or be more ongoing, depending on the needs and goals of each client. Counselors and therapists can be trained in a range of techniques and modalities, and many are eclectic in their style, meaning that they use a combination of different techniques. Some sessions may be more talk-based, and some sessions may be more action-oriented and include activities that are more active or embodied, and support rehearsal for life and skill-building.
When you start counseling or therapy, remember that you have a right to ask any questions about your services that you need to - you should feel you are able to build a trusting relationship with your counselor or therapist so they are able to help you in the best way possible. When you start working with a therapist or counselor, if at any point you have concerns about this, share them with the therapist or counselor so you can come up with a solution together!
At Uluwehi Wellness, each client is seen as an individual. the focus is on building
a therapeutic relationship, and identifying the unique blend of techniques
that is most effective for each person.
Where are you able to take clients?
At this time, services are available to folks residing in Hawai’i as Rachel is licensed as a Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the State of Hawai’i.
Rachel is also a Licensed Creative Arts Therapist (LCAT) in the State of New York, but is not accepting clients in NY at this time.
Can I bill Uluwehi Wellness services to my insurance?
At this time, Rachel is a credentialed provider in Hawai’i for HMSA (including QUEST integration), HMAA, and UHA.
Rachel is not partnered with any insurance providers in New York, and all services offered in NY are private pay.
If you are not covered under one of the above insurance providers in Hawai’i (or if you are doing private pay in NY), you may be able to submit for out-of-network reimbursement, and we will provide you with a superbill for this purpose as needed. In this case, you will be responsible for paying the full fee for service on the day of your appointment, and will then be able to submit a 1500 form for reimbursement from your insurance company.
Please note that Rachel is not able to guarantee any amount of reimbursement from your insurance provider if you decide to utilize this option, as this is solely at the discretion of the insurance company. If you have any questions about whether you would be eligible for reimbursement for behavioral health services, please contact your insurance provider directly.