I Will Help You Connect On A Deeper Level With Your Partner!

Slowing partners down during a session to facilitate deeper connection can be crucial in helping them communicate more effectively and understand each other's emotions more fully. Here are some strategies you we can use together during a session:

1. Mindful Breathing Together

• What: Invite the couple to engage in a few moments of mindful breathing together before they begin discussing difficult topics.

• Why: This can help ground them in the present moment, reduce anxiety, and create a calmer atmosphere for deeper connection.

2. Reflective Listening

• What: Encourage each partner to take turns speaking without interruption while the other listens attentively. After one partner speaks, the other should reflect back what they heard, focusing on understanding the emotions and needs expressed.

• Why: Reflective listening ensures that each partner feels heard and validated, which fosters empathy and deeper emotional connection.

3. Use of "I" Statements

• What: Guide the couple to use "I" statements (e.g., "I feel..." or "I need...") instead of "You" statements, which can often feel accusatory.

• Why: "I" statements help each partner express their feelings and needs without blaming or attacking the other, which slows down reactive responses and opens the door for more meaningful dialogue.

4. Pausing and Checking In

• What: Introduce pauses during the conversation where each partner can check in with themselves and each other. Ask them to reflect on what they are feeling in the moment and how they are responding to what is being said.

• Why: Pausing helps interrupt automatic reactions and allows both partners to process their emotions and thoughts more deeply before continuing the conversation.

5. Emotional Validation

• What: Encourage partners to acknowledge and validate each other's emotions before moving on to problem-solving or responses.

• Why: Validation shows understanding and empathy, which can slow down the pace of the conversation and allow for a deeper emotional connection.

6. Use of Metaphors or Visualizations

• What: Introduce metaphors or visualizations to help partners understand each other's emotional states or experiences more deeply (e.g., “Imagine your partner is carrying a heavy backpack. What might be inside?”).

• Why: Metaphors and visualizations can shift the conversation from surface-level issues to the underlying emotional dynamics, facilitating deeper understanding.

7. Focused Eye Contact

• What: Ask the couple to make and maintain eye contact for a few moments without speaking.

• Why: Eye contact can be a powerful way to foster connection, allowing partners to feel more emotionally attuned and connected.

8. Slow Down the Pace of Speech

• What: Encourage each partner to speak more slowly and deliberately, focusing on their tone and word choice.

• Why: Slowing down speech helps reduce defensiveness and allows for more thoughtful, intentional communication.

9. Set Time for Self-Reflection

• What: Suggest that each partner take a few minutes to silently reflect on their emotions and needs before responding during a discussion.

• Why: Self-reflection helps partners understand their own emotions more clearly, leading to more meaningful exchanges.

10. Highlighting Positive Interactions

• What: During sessions, focus on and amplify moments where partners successfully connect or show understanding towards each other.

• Why: Reinforcing positive interactions can help partners slow down and appreciate these moments, fostering a deeper connection.

By implementing these strategies, I can help couples slow down, communicate more effectively, and build a deeper emotional connection.

I’m looking forward to meeting you and helping connect with your partner now…

By Elizabeth Mahaney, LMHC, MFT, NCC, DCC, Ph.D

SOUTH TAMPA THERAPY, WELLNESS, MARRIAGE & FAMILY THERAPY

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Call or Text (813)240-3237

Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Marriage & Family Therapist

❤️ Marriage & Family Therapist 💍 Gottman Relationship Counselor 🧠 Licensed Mental Health Counselor 🏫 Harvard Trained ❤️‍🩹 Emotion Focused Therapist 👂🏽 Non-Violent Communication Facilitator 🌎 National Certified Counselor👩🏼‍⚕️ Private Practitioner 📈 Entrepreneur, Author & Mentor 🎓Qualified Supervisor for State Licensure ⚖️ FL Supreme Court Family Law Mediator 🥅 Solution Focused ✌🏻Conflict Resolver 🥰 Self Compassion & Self Care Advocate 🧘🏼‍♀️ Mindfulness Meditating Yogi 🤔 Daily Intentions & Reflections 👩‍❤️‍👨 Attachment Theorist 🗣 Neuro Linguistic Programming Practitioner ✏️ Agile Learning Center Founder 📚 Self Directed Education Alliance 🧑‍🌾 Grower: Fruit Trees & Herbs 🍽 Psychology of Eating & Nutrition 👩‍🏫 Life Long Learner... 📍 Tampa, FL & Jurisdiction to practice in FL, CT, NC, SC, MD, VA

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How to Use a Super Bill for Potential Reimbursement in Therapy

Starting Therapy

By Elizabeth Mahaney, LMHC, MFT, CCTP, NCC, Ph.D.

Learn all about leveraging a super bill to maximize insurance reimbursement for your counseling sessions at South Tampa Therapy.

Counseling is a vital investment in your mental health, well-being, and interpersonal connections. If you're curious about utilizing insurance coverage for therapy, continue reading to discover our FAQs or reach out to us at 813-240-3237.

How to Utilize Insurance with South Tampa Therapy:

At South Tampa Therapy, we only accept United, Aetna, and Cigna. We also presently do not accept insurance directly from any other insurance company. Instead, clients pay for online or in person therapy sessions upfront, with charges processed via their card on file. As an out-of-network provider, reimbursement isn't guaranteed unless explicitly outlined in your policy. However, we provide a super bill for potential partial reimbursement. Before commencing services, we advise contacting your insurance to inquire about out-of-network coverage. Should you prefer an in-network provider, we're happy to assist with referrals.

Key Questions to Ask Your Insurance Before Starting with South Tampa Therapy:

Contact your insurance's member services and inquire about out-of-network coverage for telehealth mental health services. Clarify:

• Deductible status and amount remaining.

• Coverage limit for sessions annually.

• Reimbursement rates for CPT codes 90834 and 90837.

• Coverage for Z codes pertaining to couples therapy.

• Co-payment details (if applicable).

• Requirements for prior authorization or primary care provider approval.

• Super bill submission process, including deadlines.

• Correct address for reimbursement checks.

Understanding the Super Bill:

A super bill serves as a detailed record of therapy services received, facilitating potential reimbursement. It must include:

• Client and therapist details.

• Statement number and issuance date.

• Diagnosis and corresponding code.

• Service specifics and fees paid.

Points to Consider Before Submitting a Super Bill:

• Reimbursement necessitates a clinical diagnosis from DSM–5 or ICD-10.

• Couples therapy may not be reimbursed by insurance due to diagnostic requirements.

• Discuss any diagnosis-related concerns with your therapist.

Submitting Your Super Bill:

Most insurers mandate submitting super bills within 90 to 180 days to meet timely filing requirements. Options include:

1. Mail: Obtain the insurer's mailing address and allow ample time for delivery.

2. Fax: Ensure privacy by avoiding public or work fax machines.

3. Online Portal: Utilize the insurer's secure portal for faster submission.

Post-Submission Expectations:

Insurers typically take 2-4 weeks to process super bills. Reimbursement may cover session costs minus co-pays or contribute towards deductibles. In case of denial, contact your insurer for clarification.

By optimizing your understanding of super bills and insurance processes, you can navigate potential reimbursement for therapy sessions effectively. For further assistance, reach out to South Tampa Therapy 813-240-3237.

Counseling for College Students in Tampa

At South Tampa Therapy with Dr. Elizabeth Mahaney, specialized Counseling for College Students addresses academic-social balance, roommate conflicts, and post-college concerns. Entering college signifies independence, yet struggles with fitting in, missing family or hometown, and uncertainty about the future are common experiences.

Feeling alone amidst the apparent ease of others' adjustments can exacerbate these transitions, causing anxiety, depression, and isolation. Recognize that these feelings, while normal, can impact your daily life significantly.

Symptoms like persistent emptiness, loss of interest in activities, academic setbacks, self-esteem issues, pessimism about the future, and physical stress signs may indicate depression or anxiety.

Counseling offers proven help for college students dealing with mental health challenges. While campus resources might be limited, seeking support in a comfortable and private environment can make a difference. Our team at South Tampa Therapy comprises qualified professionals passionate about helping students navigate these challenges.

We prioritize understanding each individual's needs, fostering a judgment-free, compassionate space for growth. Located in St. Petersburg, FL, we actively engage with the college community, building relationships with faculty and staff to ensure comprehensive support.

Remote counseling services via HIPAA-compliant video platforms offer flexibility, ensuring support regardless of your location. Face-to-face sessions are optimal, but remote sessions serve as a valuable resource in emergencies or when away from home.

Whether you're local or distant, our team is dedicated to providing the care and support you need during your college journey. Contact us anytime for assistance.

Book an initial Intake to start making positive changes! 

https://SouthTampaTherapyBOOKAPPT.as.me/initialintake

Text Dr. Liz on her cell phone 813-240-3237