Letters of Support

GENDER-AFFIRMING CARE LETTERS OF SUPPORT

Insurance companies may require a letter from a mental health care professional before authorizing gender-affirming surgeries and medical treatments. Letters must state that the client meets criteria for a diagnosis of Gender Dysphoria, that the requested treatment will likely support improved mental health, and that the client understands the risks and recovery needs of the requested treatment and is able to give their informed consent.

I strive to make this process as trauma-informed, collaborative and helpful to you as possible.

I have specific training and experience in providing assessments and letters for hormone therapy and gender affirming surgery. This is offered as a stand-alone service; meaning that you can schedule sessions with me just for an assessment, rather than ongoing therapy.

ASSESSMENT PROCESS

Typically an assessment for a letter of support takes one 50 minute session. In a few cases, I may need to request an additional session, or further information and care coordination in order to write an effective letter. During the session, I will gather information about your mental health history and transition process and will talk with you about your hopes for the treatment you are requesting.  We will discuss typical recovery needs and I am available to help you strategize what you may want to arrange in order to have a supported healing process. 

I will write a letter and provide you the opportunity to review it.  We will meet for a short follow-up appointment to complete the letter and make any necessary changes before we submit it to your provider/insurance company.

Please note that while an assessment for a letter of support is similar to a mental health intake, this process does not constitute ongoing therapy.  If you find that you wish to engage in ongoing therapy services following your appointment, I am happy to discuss that option with you or to help provide referrals.

FEES

If you would like to use insurance for your assessment, I am in-network for Kaiser, Aetna, PacificSource, and Moda. I can bill OHP Care Oregon as an out-of-network provider. My self-pay rate for an assessment is $175 for the initial assessment session and review appointment (plus $165 per additional session, if needed).

Most letters of support can be completed in one session.  Payment is due at the time of service.  I can accept credit card, cash or checks.

Please email me to ask about scheduling an appointment.