FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS.

Questions? We have answers.

Graphic of the words What, When, Where, Why, and How with a question mark

Thing you need to know before scheduling your free consultation —
from insurance and eligibility to what to expect in your first session.

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

Are you currently accepting new clients?

Yes. I am currently accepting new telehealth clients in the State of Oregon. To get started, schedule a free 15-minute consultation by emailing DL@deniselucaslpc.com

Who do you work with?

I work with adults 18 years and older who are Oregon residents and able to participate in telehealth sessions. I work with people navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment issues, and more. I believe every person is unique — if you are unsure whether we are a good fit, the free consultation is the right place to find out.

Do you offer in-person sessions?

No. My practice is telehealth only. All sessions are conducted via a secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform. You can participate from anywhere in Oregon.

What if we’re not a good fit??

Finding the right therapist is important, and it’s okay if we’re not the right match for each other. The free 15-minute consultation is a starting point, but sometimes it takes an appointment or two together to really know if we’re a good fit — that’s normal, and there’s no pressure to decide right away. If at any point either of us feels this isn’t the right match, I’ll be honest with you about that, and you’re always free to make that decision for yourself too. In either case, I can help point you toward other resources or referrals, so you’re not left without support.

INSURANCE & FEES

What insurance plans do you accept?

I am currently in-network with the following plans: Providence Health Plan, Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, United Healthcare, Moda Health, Regence & affiliates, Private pay is also available — please contact me to discuss rates.

Do you accept private pay?

Yes. Private pay is available for clients who are not using insurance. Please contact me at DL@deniselucaslpc.com to discuss current rates.

What is a Good Faith Estimate?

Under the No Surprises Act (2022), you have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate of expected costs before beginning care. This applies to clients who are uninsured or not using insurance.

What does my insurance cover?

Coverage depends entirely on your specific plan — things like your deductible, copay, and whether you have out-of-network benefits all affect what you’ll pay. I’ve put together a full guide explaining these terms and how reimbursement actually works: Understanding Your Health Insurance for Therapy.

CONSULTATIONS & SESSIONS

What can I expect in my first full session?

The first session is about getting to know you — your history, your goals, and what you are hoping to get out of therapy. There is no pressure to dive into difficult material right away. We go at a pace that feels safe and right for you. By the end of our early sessions, we will have a clearer picture of what your care plan looks like.

How long does therapy take?

This varies significantly from person to person depending on your goals, history, and the nature of what you are working through. Some people find meaningful progress in a few months; others benefit from longer-term support. We will discuss expectations together as we get started and revisit them as your needs evolve.

How often would we meet?

Most clients begin with weekly sessions. As you progress, we may shift to bi-weekly or less frequent meetings depending on your needs and goals. We will decide together what makes the most sense for you.

TELEHEALTH & PRIVACY

Is telehealth secure and confidential?

Yes. Sessions are conducted on a HIPAA-compliant platform, and all information you share is protected under standard confidentiality laws. I am bound by the ethical and legal standards of the Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists. Please note that standard email is not fully encrypted — I recommend keeping sensitive communications to our secure platform.

What do I need for a telehealth session?

You will need a device with a camera and microphone (smartphone, tablet, or computer), a stable internet connection, and a private space where you feel comfortable speaking freely. I recommend using headphones for added privacy.

What do I need for a telehealth session?

You will need a device with a camera and microphone (smartphone, tablet, or computer), a stable internet connection, and a private space where you feel comfortable speaking freely. I recommend using headphones for added privacy.

What if I am not in Oregon during a session?

My license allows me to practice only with clients who are physically located in Oregon at the time of service. If you are traveling outside Oregon, we will need to reschedule your session for when you return.

What platform do you use for sessions?

All sessions and client communication are managed through SimplePractice, a HIPAA-compliant platform built specifically for mental health practices. Through the SimplePractice Client Portal you can join telehealth appointments, complete intake paperwork, send secure messages, view invoices, and manage your appointments — all in one place. You can access the portal from any web browser, or download the SimplePractice Client Portal app on your phone for easier access.

How do I get started with SimplePractice?

Once we confirm you as a client, you will receive a welcome email invitation from SimplePractice with a link to set up your Client Portal. The resources below walk you through everything step by step:
Getting started with the Client Portal — support.simplepracticeclient.com
Logging in to the Client Portal — support.simplepracticeclient.com
Joining a telehealth appointment — support.simplepracticeclient.com
SimplePractice Client Help Center — support.simplepracticeclient.com

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Do I use AI in my practice?

I do not use artificial intelligence tools in my practice — not for session notes, clinical documentation, client communication, or any other aspect of your care. Everything in this practice is handled by me, directly and personally. Your words, your story, and your records are never processed by AI systems.

Still have questions?

Feel free to reach out directly at DL@deniselucaslpc.com before scheduling your consultation.

I am happy to answer any questions that would help you decide if my practice is the right fit for you.

GET STARTED

Ready to take the first step?

A free 15-minute consultation is a no-pressure chance for us to meet, connect, and see if we are a good fit.

Painting of a cat named Rocky sitting on a fence

My cat Rocky told me he thinks it’s great that you’re curious, and your questions are prrrfect!

Denise A. Lucas, LPC, Oregon
Licensed Professional Counselor
State of Oregon · License #C6772
NPI # 1083188023
PO Box 13761
Portland, Oregon 97213 
Preferred Contact is Email: DL@deniselucaslpc.com
Ph: 503-782-9950

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If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, please call 911 or the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
This website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or psychological advice.
© 2025 Denise A. Lucas, LPC · All rights reserved.

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