Aguirre Center for Inclusive Psychotherapy: Online Therapy Review

Introduction

Aguirre Center for Inclusive Psychotherapy is a telehealth practice initiated by Dr. Sophia Aguirre in 2021. It endeavors to provide culturally-sensitive psychotherapy to historically marginalized communities. This review evaluates the practice's services, costs, insurance coverage, discounts, sign-up process, therapy sessions, quality of care, and comparison with competitors.

Services Offered

The Aguirre Center offers a comprehensive range of services, including:

• Individual Therapy: Tailored sessions addressing unique needs and concerns.
• Relationship Therapy: Focused on couples or polycules, addressing communication and intimacy.
• Group Therapy: Sessions dedicated to the specific needs of marginalized communities.
• Psychological Assessments: Specialized assessments, including ADHD evaluations.
• Consulting and Training: Professional development for clinicians aiming to enhance inclusivity.

Costs and Insurance Coverage

• Initial Assessment: $200-$250 (Reduced Fee with Intern Therapists: $60)
• Individual Therapy: $125-$200 per Session (Reduced Fee with Intern Therapists: $60)
• Relationship Therapy: $150-$215 per Session
• Group Therapy: $65 per 90-Minute Session

The practice isn't in-network with insurance companies, but clients can submit superbills to their providers for potential coverage.

Discounts and Payment Assistance

• Sliding Scale: Limited sliding scale options are available, prioritizing marginalized communities.
• Reduced Fee Options: Services with intern therapists are offered at reduced costs.

Sign-up Process

Clients can commence therapy via a Google form or request an initial phone/video consultation. When found suitable for the practice, an initial assessment appointment is scheduled.

Choosing a Therapist

The Aguirre Center doesn't offer a matching service. Clients select a therapist from the directory, which provides details on their pronouns, expertise, credentials, approach to therapy, and other relevant information.

Therapy Sessions

Therapy sessions are conducted online through SimplePractice, a HIPAA-compliant virtual practice management software. In-person sessions may also be available at the practice's Atlanta office.

Cancellation Policy

Clients need to provide 48 hours' notice for cancellations or reschedulings. Late arrivals won't receive additional time, and late cancellations/no-shows incur the full session fee. Group sessions cannot be rescheduled.

Quality of Care and User Satisfaction

• 72% of users rated the service as good, very good, or excellent.
• 60% would recommend it to a friend.
• Only 3% found Aguirre more effective in addressing experiences of racism and discrimination.
• Only 10% found Aguirre's therapists more supportive in working with LGBTQIA+ clients.

Confidentiality and Privacy Policies

Confidentiality is a key principle, with written consent required to disclose client information. Sessions are held via the HIPAA-compliant SimplePractice platform.

Comparison with Competitors

• Aguirre may be more expensive and lacks insurance coverage compared to competitors.
• It stands out in its focus on BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ mental health issues, group therapy offerings, and psychological assessments.

Conclusion

Aguirre Center for Inclusive Psychotherapy can be a valuable option for individuals seeking culturally-responsive therapy, especially those in polyamorous or non-monogamous relationships. However, its limited insurance coverage and user satisfaction ratings are factors to consider.