FAQ
We know that finding the right therapist and understanding the process can feel overwhelming at first. Below, you’ll find answers to frequently asked questions (FAQ) about Apis Mental Health & Grief Counseling—including our location, how to get started, scheduling, insurance that we accept, ethical boundaries, and more.
Location & Information
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All sessions for Apis Mental Health & Grief Counseling are conducted via a secure telehealth platform, allowing you to attend from the comfort of your own home or another private location.
Please note: for licensure reasons, you must be physically located in the state of Minnesota at the time of your session. If you are outside Minnesota, the session will need to be rescheduled.
Your privacy is very important. I ask that you attend sessions from a quiet, secure space where you can speak freely and be away from others.
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At this time, all individual therapy sessions are offered exclusively via telehealth (Online). While I may explore an in-person office location in the future, it is not currently an option.
Some other services—such as trainings and select support groups—may be offered in person when available. Details will be shared in advance for those opportunities.
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Apis Mental Health & Grief Counseling individual therapy practice is currently focused on working with adults — age 18 and older.
While Jen does not offer therapy services for couples, children, or families at this time, Jen remains deeply committed to supporting youth and families through community outreach, including trainings, support groups, and participation on various boards.
How to Start Therapy-
Taking the first step toward therapy is a meaningful decision, and we want you to feel informed and supported throughout the process. Once you contact us, here’s a step-by-step guide to what you can expect as you begin online therapy with Apis Mental Health & Grief Counseling.
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We’ll begin with a short phone call to see if we’re a good fit. This gives both of us a chance to ask questions, talk about what you’re looking for, and get a feel for what working together might look like. We’ll also briefly cover topics like insurance coverage, fees, appointment scheduling, and what the next steps would be if we decide to move forward.
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If it feels like a good match, we’ll go ahead and schedule your first therapy session—called the intake session.
Before we meet, you’ll receive a link to your secure client portal where you can complete the required intake paperwork.
🔔 Important: Intake forms must be completed at least 48 hours before your session, or we’ll need to reschedule.
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In our first therapy session, Jen will ask a lot of questions to understand what’s bringing you to therapy and learn about your background.
This session is part of a Diagnostic Assessment, which is required by insurance to establish the need for therapy services.
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In session two, we’ll build your treatment plan. We’ll identify goals and talk about what you’d like to focus on in therapy moving forward.
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After our second therapy session, our regular sessions begin. Jen often encourage clients to reflect on their week—what stood out, what felt heavy or meaningful—as a way to guide our conversations.
Each session is tailored to your needs, and we’ll keep checking in about what’s helpful and what’s not.
Telehealth Appointments
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Jen typically schedules clients in a recurring time slot—weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly—as this tends to be the most effective and consistent option for ongoing work. Sessions typically last 53–55 minutes, allowing enough time for meaningful progress each visit.
If you ever need to reschedule, you're welcome to do so through the client portal. It shows Jen’s current weekly availability, so you can easily find and book a time that works best for you.
Ethical Considerations
As a licensed therapist, Jennifer Apley is held to strict ethical guidelines designed to protect both client and clinician. Below are some common questions about boundaries in the therapeutic relationship for potential or new clients and established clients:
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Due to professional ethics and licensure requirements, Jen cannot provide therapy to individuals with whom she already has a personal relationship with. This is considered a “dual relationship,” which therapists are ethically prohibited from engaging in.
As a general rule: If we already talk, communicate regularly, or support each other personally, Jen would not be able to see you as a client.
Lastly, if in doubt, reach out and discuss with Jen. If she can’t help you, she will gladly offer resources for other therapists who could.
Potential or New Clients:
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If we happen to cross paths in public, Jen will not initiate contact. Jen may smile or nod, but will never approach you or speak to you first. This is to protect your privacy and confidentiality.
With that said, you are always welcome to say hello, and Jen will greet you in return, but Jen cannot engage in therapeutic conversation or provide support outside of scheduled sessions. If you need additional support, please reach out through the portal to request an appointment.
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Yes, clients are welcome to attend any of public events Jen speaks at. If we see each other there, Jen will maintain a professional distance and won’t acknowledge you in a way that could indicate a therapeutic relationship unless you initiate. Your comfort and confidentiality remain Jen’s priority.
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This is a bit more nuanced. In most cases, it would likely constitute a dual relationship, especially if there is a personal or financial element involved. However, feel free to reach out to discuss the details, and Jen can help assess whether it would be ethically appropriate or refer you to a trusted colleague.
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Jen does not provide clinical support outside of scheduled sessions. However, if you're having a tough week and feel you could benefit from an extra session, you’re always welcome to send me a message through the client portal. Jen can’t guarantee availability, but she will do her best to find a time that works.
For urgent needs or crisis situations, it’s important to utilize 24/7 crisis mental health support resources. These will be provided in your intake paperwork, and Jen strongly encourages all clients to keep them easily accessible.
Current or Established Clients:
Insurance & Billing
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Apis Mental Health & Grief Counseling is currently in-network with the following health insurance providers:
Aetna
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Optum
United Health Group
Medica
Medicare
Minnesota Medicaid (MA)
Hennepin Health
Triwest
Please contact your insurance provider directly to verify therapy coverage.
You may also utilize out-of-network benefits if you have an insurance not listed above. Apis Mental Health & Grief Counseling can provide you a “superbill” for you to submit to insurance.
Private pay is also an option.If you have questions about using insurance or need assistance, feel free to reach out.
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Billing services for Apis Mental Health & Grief Counseling are managed by Mockingbird Billing, a trusted third-party billing agency.
If you have any questions about your bill, insurance claims, or payments, please contact our billing specialist, Kayla, at:
📧 Kayla@mockingbirdbilling.com
She’s knowledgeable, responsive, and happy to assist.Please Note:
A credit card is required to be kept on file. Charges for sessions, including any anticipated copays, as well as fees for late cancellations or no-shows, will be billed automatically. More details are provided in the intake paperwork.