FAQ’s

FAQ’s2024-01-17T10:31:15-08:00
Your name says “Pediatrics”, do you only see pediatrics?2023-12-20T13:43:21-08:00

No. Our Mental Health and Medical Providers offer services to adults as well as children.

Do you have a waiting list?2023-12-20T13:49:48-08:00

Yes. Wait times vary depending on location, service, and the patient/client’s flexibility with scheduling. If you are placed on our waiting list, the best way to stay up-to-date is by contacting the Office Specialists (occupational, physical, speech therapy) or Care Coordinators (mental health and medical services).

We follow an evaluation to treatment model which means we search for an evaluation appointment time that will also work for ongoing therapy if warranted.

Please be aware that appointments in the mid to late afternoons are in high demand; therefore, it may take some time for an appointment to be available. If you have more flexibility in your schedule, appointment times are easier to find.

Do I need a referral?2023-12-20T13:51:10-08:00

Anyone can refer a client or patient to Neuro by contacting our Office Specialists or Care Coordinators.

A written referral (prescriptions) from a primary care provider for occupational, physical, and speech therapy services is needed prior to scheduling an appointment.  Mental Health and Medical Services do not need a written referral to get started.

Do you provide interpreters?2023-12-20T13:51:59-08:00

We have staff who are bilingual in Spanish/English and can help with intake and scheduling. We contract with Language Providers for other interpretive services.

I work full-time, are there appointments available in the evening or weekend?2024-01-11T17:33:48-08:00

Yes, we have limited appointments available that begin after 5pm and during the weekend. They are in high demand and there may be a waiting list for these times.

What if I don’t have transportation to appointments?2023-12-20T13:54:22-08:00

We do provide Telehealth services for individuals who are not able to arrange transportation for appointments.

Why is it important to fill out the Intake paperwork ahead of time?2024-01-11T17:32:16-08:00

In addition to the registration information, having details about your/your child’s history, your concerns, etc., allows our providers to utilize our time during the initial assessment/evaluation as efficiently as possible. For our OT/PT/ST clients, having as much information ahead of time as possible allows our providers to better plan for any assessments they need to complete during the initial evaluation.

What can I expect from the process of filling out intake paperwork?2024-01-11T17:29:11-08:00

Our intake paperwork is available online. New clients can complete an intake form and the links to the online paperwork will be emailed directly.

  • Intake paperwork can also be mailed directly.
  • It takes about 30 minutes to complete the intake paperwork.
What resources or support is provided to families outside of therapy sessions?2024-01-11T17:25:48-08:00

If you are experiencing barriers to your experience with Neuro, or could use assistance beyond what Neuro can offer, your provider can refer you to our internal Family Navigator. The Family Navigator assists families with navigating larger systems (ie. finding providers within your insurance, navigating affordable housing programs, etc.), identifying local resources for you to expand your own support network (ie. community support groups, neurodivergent social groups, etc.), as well as financial assistance opportunities (ie. finding free food, finding low cost activities, applying for insurance to cover medical needs, etc. The Family Navigator has a Masters of Social Work, is a Certified OHP Assister, and trained specifically to support children and families with special healthcare needs and disabilities.

How long are appointments?2023-12-20T14:01:27-08:00

Appointments are scheduled in 1 hour blocks.

As a parent/guardian, do I participate in the appointment?2023-12-20T14:08:28-08:00

For OT/PT/ST services, we encourage parent participation. For MH and Medical services, each provider will discuss parent participation individually.

What if I/my child does not feel well?2023-10-04T15:05:15-07:00

Contact us as soon as possible! We do not want illness to spread to others. Special needs and medically fragile children need you to stay home and/or keep your child at home when either of you are sick.

Please stay home if you have:

  • Tested positive for COVID.
  • Vomited or had diarrhea in the past 24 hours
  • A rash, lice or nits
  • Strep throat or ear infection (until at least 24 hours after starting antibiotics).
  • An eye infection
  • A sore throat for multiple days
  • A fever over 101 degrees
  • May find it difficult to participate in a therapy session

Just started feeling sick, now what?

  • Test yourself for COVID, and if you test positive, follow the instructions below.
  • Check the expiration date on your test to make sure your test isn’t expired.
  • If you test negative for COVID, and are not exhibiting any symptoms (cough, fever, or shortness of breath), you can attend therapy if you can wear a mask anytime you are in a shared space with clients or providers.
A client has been exposed to COVID-19, now what?
  • Wear a mask for 10 days (Day 0 is the day you were exposed, and the next day is Day 1).
  • Test for COVID on day 6, or sooner if symptoms appear.
    • Check the expiration date on your test to make sure it isn’t expired.
    • Even if it is a negative test, continue to wear a mask for all 10 days.
    • If the test is positive, follow the steps for what to do when you test positive.
A client has tested positive for COVID-19, now what?
  • They should stay home and isolate from family members as much as possible for 5 days (Day 0 is the day of exposure, and the next day is Day 1).
  • They can end isolation and attend therapy sessions starting on day 6 if they have been fever-free for 24 hours and their symptoms have improved.
  • Continue to wear a mask for a total of 10 days, or longer if still experiencing symptoms.
  • Contact a primary care doctor or seek assistance at an urgent care or hospital if they are experiencing worsening symptoms or need medical guidance.

*Additional policies may be implemented in accordance with state and local guidelines in the case of an infectious outbreak. If you have questions regarding this health policy, please ask your provider or contact our Medical Director, Dr. Amanda Watters.

What is your cancellation policy?2023-10-19T07:56:28-07:00

Neurotherapeutic Pediatric Therapies has instituted a 24-hour notification policy for cancelling all in-clinic and telehealth appointments. In the event that you are unable to keep your/your child’s scheduled appointment, we ask that you contact our office as soon as possible. This will allow us the opportunity to manage our schedules and to offer available appointment times to another client; it also prevents unnecessary treatment set-up and planning by your/your child’s provider. Click the button below for a copy of our Cancellation and Attendance Policy.

To cancel or reschedule Occupational, Physical, and Speech Therapy appointments, email [email protected] or call:

  • Oregon City: 503-657-8903
  • NE Portland: 503-257-3878
  • McMinnville: 971-261-2159
  • Wilsonville: 503-855-3223
  • Canby: 503-263-8903
  • Hillsboro: 503-747-5359

To cancel or reschedule Mental Health and Medical appointments in all locations, email [email protected] or call:

  • 503-372-5147 ext. 6
What does the initial occupational, physical or speech therapy evaluation look like?2023-12-20T14:32:00-08:00

For occupational therapy, physical therapy and speech therapy evaluations, the evaluating therapist works directly with your child and will ask questions of both you and your child depending on your child’s age. There will be lots of movement on equipment and mostly fun activities.  There may be some table top activities, or range-of-motion measurements.

Our therapists are experts at getting the information that they need out of seemingly routine kid centered activities. Most kids enjoy the initial evaluation. The evaluation will last from 30 minutes to 1 hour depending on what is scheduled. At the end of the appointment, the therapist will be able to identify if further treatment is recommended.

If treatment is recommended for occupational, physical or speech therapy, how does therapy get started?2023-12-20T13:57:56-08:00

From our website: At the end of the evaluation appointment, you will be notified if further treatment is recommended. Private Pay clients or clients with insurance that does not require prior authorization, we will confirm appointment times with you.  If the insurance company requires additional information from a primary care doctor and/or a prior authorization for services, we will work to obtain the information and send it to the insurance company.  Once we receive a response, we will contact you immediately to confirm appointments or discuss next steps.

How can I prepare my child for their first OT/PT/ST appointment?2023-12-20T13:58:48-08:00

Encourage your child that their therapist is excited to meet them and play with them. They will get to show off their skills in a variety of fun ways. It’s helpful to make sure they have had plenty of sleep the night before, they are well hydrated and have had a snack.

Can I drop off my child for treatment sessions?2023-12-20T14:02:11-08:00

A parent/caregiver must remain on site during the treatment session. We believe strongly that parents/caregivers should be a part of therapy sessions, and ask caregivers to be available to play, observe or otherwise participate during sessions. This allows the therapist to give you a better understanding of what is happening during sessions, to make recommendations for home, or provide coaching during play.

However, we understand that some children prefer parents to not be present or other family responsibilities prevent a parent from attending.

Can siblings come to appointments?2023-12-20T14:06:09-08:00

For most appointments, siblings are not able to come into the therapy session.

My child is a current client and has been referred for a different therapy. Do I need to redo any paperwork or the intake form?2024-01-03T16:16:23-08:00

You will not need to redo the complete packet. However, there are some unique forms to each therapy/service that may need to be completed depending on the needs of the client. Discuss with any of our Office Specialists or Care Coordinators for additional details.

What does an initial mental health assessment/evaluation look like?2024-01-11T17:20:23-08:00

Assessments are typically one hour. During which the therapist meets with the client (and, depending on client’s age and needs, parents/caregivers/family/other support) in a confidential setting (typically the therapist’s office or playroom, or virtually if telehealth) to establish a trusting relationship and to assess the client for a mental health diagnosis and recommendations for treatment.

Questions will be asked to the client (and/or parent/caregiver) in relation to personal history, family history, relevant life events, current stressors, symptoms, concerns, and goals for therapy.

If services are recommended for mental health therapy, how does therapy get started?2024-01-11T17:22:01-08:00

Typically at the end of the assessment, the therapist will offer information on diagnosis or treatment recommendations, and may schedule a hold for the client’s desired day/time.

In order to begin treatment, the assessment and treatment plan must be completed. We try our best to maintain a 7-day turn around, so that clients can be seen within 1 week after their initial assessment and will inform the care coordinators once the documents are complete to confirm the next appointment.

How can I prepare my child for their first mental health assessment?2024-01-11T17:23:07-08:00

Prepare your child for their first mental health assessment by openly communicating why they are coming, normalizing the experience, and talking positively about seeing a therapist. Encourage self-expression, be present and supportive, and celebrate your child’s courage in taking this positive step toward their emotional well-being.

If there are any topics that you feel should not be discussed in front of your child, feel free to write them down and provide this to the therapist on the first day, or request that you meet with the therapist alone at some point (note that if you are seeing a therapist in-person and want to meet with them alone, you will need to bring another adult to sit with your child while you are alone in the office with the therapist).

Can we schedule virtual therapy visits?2024-01-03T13:09:36-08:00

We do provide therapy through telehealth as long as it is supportive and beneficial to your child which your therapist can determine during the evaluation. For OT/PT/ST services, we may need to confirm with your insurance that they cover telehealth.  

What insurance companies are you contracted with?2023-03-28T09:18:38-07:00

The list below is provided for reference and is subject to change without notice.  Keep in mind that your provider may not be contracted with all insurance companies listed below within their service area.  Please contact your insurance company directly to verify that your provider, or our group (Neurotherapeutic Pediatric Therapies), is in network with your specific plan.  Questions can be directed to our Lead Insurance Specialist, Yvonne Schmitz at [email protected].

Occupational, Physical, and Speech Therapy
  • Aetna
  • Care Oregon
  • Cigna
  • Columbia Pacific CCO
  • DMAP
  • Healthnet Federal Services (HNFS) TriCare
  • HeathNet
  • Intercommunity Health Network
  • Kaiser (OT Only)
  • Moda
  • OHSU-Tuality Health Plan – HealthShare
  • PacificSource Commercial
  • PacificSource Community Solutions
  • PeaceHealth (PPO)
  • Providence – HealthShare
  • Providence Commercial
  • Regence
  • Samaritan Intercommunity Health Network (McMinnville Location Only)
  • Trillium Community Health Plan
  • Yamhill Community Care Organization (YCCO)
Mental Health Therapy
  • Aetna
  • Beacon Anthem EAP
  • Care Oregon – HealthShare
  • Columbia Pacific CCO
  • DMAP
  • Evernorth Behavioral Health aka Cigna
  • HNFS TriCare
  • Kaiser
  • Moda
  • Pacific Source Commercial
  • PacificSource Community Solutions
  • Providence – HealthShare
  • Providence Commercial
  • Regence
  • Samaritan Intercommunity Health Network (McMinnville Location Only)
  • Trillium Community Health Plan
  • United Behavioral Health
  • Yamhill Community Care Organization (YCCO)
Naturopathic Doctors
  • Aetna
  • Care Oregon
  • Cigna (Dr. Gesik only)
  • DMAP
  • HealthNet
  • Moda
  • OHSU – Tuality Health Plan – HealthShare
  • PacificSource Commercial
  • PacificSource Community Solutions
  • Providence – HealthShare
  • Providence Commercial
  • Regence
  • Trillium Community Health Plan (Dr. Watters only)
  • United Healthcare
  • Yamhill Community Care Organization (YCCO)
How can I check my Telehealth appointment information?2021-11-21T15:17:37-08:00

We use a combination of secure video conferencing platforms for Telehealth services.

  • Occupational, Physical, and Speech Therapy: Fusion Web Clinic
  • Mental Health Therapy: TherapyPortal
  • Medical Program: ChARM

Once your appointment is scheduled, we will send you more information on getting ready for your appointment and how to access your telehealth appointment link.

What do I need for a video Telehealth appointment?2021-11-21T15:18:11-08:00

To utilize video Telehealth appointments, you will need a computer, tablet, or phone with a camera and High Speed Internet. Headphones may be helpful for sound quality.

If you do not have access to high-speed internet, check with your local providers. Some companies may provided discounted rates during the pandemic.

Can all ages participate in Telehealth?2021-11-21T15:14:14-08:00

Telehealth can be a good option for a wide range of ages. For young children, parents will need to set-up the Telehealth session and, depending on the type of appointment/service, participate in the session.

It may not be a good fit for clients who struggle to stay in one place.

Why Telehealth?2021-11-21T15:12:51-08:00

Telehealth is a great option for when coming into the clinic isn’t feasible. It allows for consistency in therapy and/or medical services. You can receive excellent services from the comfort of your home!

What is Telehealth?2021-11-21T15:12:10-08:00

Telehealth is just like a regular therapy or medical appointment, but it’s done by either a live video connection over the internet or by a phone call (phone call option is Mental Health and Medical only).

What if Neurotherapeutic Pediatric Therapies is out-of-network or I am out of benefits?2021-11-21T11:28:09-08:00

Even if we are not contracted with your insurance company, we can still file claims for therapy services which may still be covered at an out-of-network rate. If you are out of benefits, we have cash or credit card payment options available as well.

We want to work with you to find a solution! Call or talk with us to discuss options available for your family.

How can I verify my insurance benefits?2021-11-21T11:25:27-08:00

It is your responsibility to be informed of your insurance benefits prior to the initial visit.

Contacting the insurance company directly will help you to better understand your plan and how benefits may be applied. The customer service number is usually located on the back of the insurance card.  Below are a some questions to ask your insurance company that may help you better understand your plan and coverage for services.

  • What are my out-patient occupational, physical and/or speech therapy benefits? Out-patient mental health therapy benefits?

  • Do I need prior-authorization to see an occupational, physical, or speech therapist? A mental health therapist?

  • What is my deductible (the amount that is paid out of pocket before benefits begin)? Is there a separate out-of-network deductible?

  • When do my benefits renew (per calendar year or plan year)?

  • What are my in-network and out-of-network benefits?

  • What’s my copay/percentage paid per visit?

  • How many therapy visits are covered?

  • Are therapy services a combined benefit for occupational, physical and speech therapy?

  • Are there any exclusions for Neurodevelopmental Therapy or for Developmental Delay?
  • Are any diagnoses excluded that I should be aware of?
  • Is Neurotherapeutic Pediatric Therapies Inc. an in-network or an out-of-network provider? (Tax ID# is 208439757)
Will my insurance cover my desired therapy?2021-11-21T11:17:41-08:00
Occupational, Physical, Speech Therapy and Mental Health Services

Most insurance companies do help cover the cost of therapy services.

We will help you receive the maximum allowable benefits through your insurance carrier and, as a courtesy to our clients, our insurance specialist will contact the insurance company to verify benefits. While we are not able to guarantee coverage, we are committed to helping you understand your plan’s benefits and assist in utilizing the existing benefits available.

Naturopathic Medical Program

Please contact our Insurance Specialist at 503-263-8903 for additional information about coverage for naturopathic medical services.

What is co-insurance?2021-11-21T11:12:54-08:00

This is the percentage that your individual policy requires you to pay of the allowed or contracted amount.

We will bill you for your co-insurance amount once we determine what your carrier allows per visit. Keep in mind that some plans may have a co-pay, co-insurance or both.

What is a copay?2021-11-21T11:11:39-08:00

Some insurance contracts require you to pay a certain dollar amount each visit. This amount is called a co-pay. Co-pay amounts can vary, depending on your individual policy.

Co-pays are expected to be paid upon your arrival each visit.

What is a deductible?2021-11-21T11:10:04-08:00

The deductible is the amount you are required to pay before your insurance begins payment. Deductibles vary in size and may renew at either the calendar year or plan year depending on your individual policy.

If you have a deductible and have not met it, payment is expected at each visit until your deductible is met.

Will you bill my insurance company?2021-11-21T11:08:02-08:00

Yes!

We are committed to providing the best possible care, and that also includes filing insurance claims to your insurance company for therapy services. We are in-network with many insurance companies, and even if we are not, therapy services may still be covered at an out-of-network rate. We work closely with our clients to best utilize their existing insurance benefits. If no insurance is available, we accept cash, checks, Visa and MasterCard as payment for services.

When are copays and payments for services due?2024-01-07T09:47:41-08:00

Clients are asked to pay their copay or payment for services at the time of treatment. You should be notified at the time of your visits what the amount of your payment should be. If the office staff doesn’t mention it – please ask.

We like to work together to eliminate surprises and we are happy to answer questions!

 

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