Frequently Asked Questions:
How do I get started?
You have a few options, depending on where you are in the process:
- Schedule a free 15-minute consultation to ask questions and see if we’re a good fit
- Schedule an appointment directly if you’re ready to begin
To verify insurance benefits, you may text or email:
- A photo of the front and back of your insurance card
- Your date of birth
- Your email address
I’ll verify benefits and provide an estimate before your first session.
Do you accept insurance?
Yes. Amber Pilkington, M.Psy., LPC-Supervisor is now in-network with most major insurance plans, with the exception of BCBS, Tricare, and a small number of others.
Because coverage varies by plan, you’re welcome to contact me to verify benefits and estimated co-pays before scheduling.
If I am not in-network with your insurance, you may:
- Choose private pay
- Use out-of-network benefits
- Work with one of our LPC-Associates at a reduced rate
In-Network Insurance Plans
- Aetna
- Ascension (SmartHealth)
- Cigna
- Carelon Behavioral Health
- Oscar Health (Optum)
- Oxford (Optum)
- UnitedHealthcare (Optum)
Insurance coverage and benefits vary by plan; eligibility and session costs are determined by your insurer.
If I Amber is not in-network with your insurance, read this blog post for options:
What are your fees?
Private Pay — Amber Pilkington, LPC-S
- Initial Intake & Treatment Planning (60 minutes): $115
- Ongoing Sessions (60 minutes): $115
Therapy sessions are 50–60 minutes. Time outside the session is used for documentation, case planning, and preparation.
Amber maintains a smaller caseload to allow for thoughtful preparation, case consultation, and continued study of the most current research relevant to your care.
What if I’m using insurance out of network?
If you choose to see me as an out-of-network provider, you’ll pay the session fee at the time of service. A superbill can be provided for you to submit to your insurance for reimbursement.
Helpful questions to ask your insurance provider:
- Do I have out-of-network mental health benefits?
- Are Licensed Professional Counselors covered in Texas?
- What is my deductible and reimbursement rate?
- Is there a session limit?
- Will this count toward my out-of-network deductible or max out-of-pocket?
Do you offer in-person sessions?
At this time, Amber Pilkington offers virtual counseling only.
Our LPC-Associates offer in-person sessions.
Is therapy confidential?
Yes. Confidentiality is a cornerstone of therapy.
Information is kept confidential except in legally required situations, including:
- Risk of harm to yourself or others
- Suspected abuse of a minor or vulnerable adult
- Court orders or subpoenas
- Certain licensing or ethical obligations
For minors, parents may request records; however, I encourage families to support a confidential therapeutic relationship whenever appropriate.
Do you prescribe medication?
No. Licensed Professional Counselors in Texas do not prescribe medication.
However, with your written consent, I frequently collaborate with physicians or other providers as part of a coordinated treatment approach.
What if I can’t see you due to scheduling or insurance?
That’s okay. Not every therapist is the right fit for every situation.
If working together isn’t possible right now, I encourage you to visit the Resources Page and Blog for educational materials and referrals to other qualified professionals. My hope is always that you receive the support you need — even if it’s not with me.
Ready to schedule a free 15 minute phone consult?
If you have any trouble scheduling text Amber at 210-920-0091