Martha Walch, Ph.D.
Clinical Practice of Psychology
This Practice is not accepting New Patients
Without Awareness, Nothing Changes
About
You should know a little bit about me. I am a Licensed Psychologist in the State of Texas with nearly 30 years of experience. I work with young adults through Seniors. My education includes the following:
B.A, Anthropology, University of Texas at Austin
M.A., Clinical Psychology, Trinity University
Ph.D., Counseling Psychology, Texas A&M University
As a native San Antonian, I have worked in the San Antonio area for the duration of my career. I have worked in a variety of settings, public and private, inpatient and outpatient. I have also worked with both Active Duty service members, and veteran/retired members, as well as their spouses.
I believe that we all strive to be the best we can be, and to make the best decisions we can. However, sometimes circumstances, both past and present, come into play and interfere with our ability to be and do our best. We are often not aware of these issues, and wonder why things aren't turning out the way we would like. My purpose is to help you discover and develop an awareness of these blockages. Without awareness, nothing changes.
I believe that we do the best we can, and make the best decisions we can with the information we have at the moment. Again, awareness is important to break these habits of maladaptive thoughts and behaviors.
You are an individual, and no one else is like you. Therefore, my approach to treatment will be individualized and tailored to your circumstances, needs and goals. I employ a variety of therapeutic techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which focuses on the connection between thoughts and feelings. I also use Psychodynamic techniques when it is necessary to discover how past experiences may be affecting your current difficulties. Other interventions that many clients have found helpful are Mindfulness/Relaxation techniques, and journaling, among others. These are all meant to help you increase awareness. I also emphasize the importance of good health habits - sleep, diet, and exercise - as these have been shown to have an important effect on how we feel and function.
In addition to this, the thing that contributes the most to the success of therapy is the relationship between client and therapist. Trust and respect are important components of this. When these are present - on both sides - then therapy can have positive and satisfying results.
My Services
I work with individual adults and couples of all ages. I do not work with children under the age of 18 years. (If you receive a referral for your minor child, please tell the referring entity that I do not see children and to refer you elsewhere.)
The first session will consist of an intake interview that complements and supplements the Biographical Information form that you will complete when you register. During that time I will take a brief history, and we will talk about what brings you to seek therapy, and what your goals are. If you have any questions, please write them down and bring them with you so we can discuss them.
My primary work and interest is in providing therapy that will benefit you. I do not perform assessments - educational, occupational, disability, support animal, etc. - for non-established or newer clients. Such assessments for well-established clients are considered on a case-by-case basis.
My major areas of interest include:
Depressive Disorders
Anxiety Disorders
PTSD/Trauma
Stress Management
Chronic Illness/Pain
Women's Issues
Anger Management
Relationship/Communication Issues
Adjustment/Developmental Issues
Grief and Loss
Insurance Accepted
I am in the process of becoming credentialed for most major insurances. Please call me for more information. Let me know what insurance you have so I can make sure I have applied.
At this time, I take the following insurance:
Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Texas
BlueChoice (PPO/POS)
Medicare Advantage PPO networks
Humana Military
Multiplan
I can also file Out-of-Network
I also take cash, checks, and credit cards - VISA, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, and HCAs. My fee for the Initial evaluation is $175, and for follow-up sessions, $150.
Even with insurance, some people prefer to pay out of pocket when more confidentiality is desired. Please call if this is something you're considering.
Before your appointment, call your insurance company for the following information:
Confirm that your mental health benefits are through your main carrier and that my practice (Martha Walch, Ph.D.) is in-network. Some major companies contract out behavioral health coverage or have subsidiaries that are not included in our contract with their insurance company. This would significantly affect the amount you're required to pay out of pocket.
Ask if you have a copay or coinsurance and what that amount would be. If you have a deductible, ask if it applies to mental health care. If so, ask what that amount is and how much you've already met. You will be required to pay the contracted rate, out of pocket, until your insurance deductible is met.
Ask if preauthorization is required (often an authorization number is involved), and if there is a limit to the number of covered sessions.
I will submit claims on your behalf, but I a not responsible if you do not contact your insurance company regarding your coverage before your appointment. Your coverage, or lack of coverage, is between you and your insurance company. I do not get involved beyond submitting claims on your behalf. If you disagree with your charges, please contact your insurance company.
Start Here
I am pleased that you have decided to take this step toward achieving your goals, and leading a fuller, happier life.
Before registering, please do the following:
Please call your insurance company (the number is usually found on the back of your insurance card) to confirm that you have mental health benefits and whether or not a referral is required. You will also need to find out if you have a deductible and/or co-pay, if you require preauthorization, or if you have a limited number of covered sessions. Knowing these things ahead of time will help with treatment planning and assure uninterrupted services. More complete information can be found under the "Insurance Accepted" tab
Next, to register as a client, click on the web address below and you will be taken to the patient portal. There you can register and complete the necessary paperwork, paying close attention to your insurance information. Then complete the Biographical Information form. Once you have done this, you will receive an email with consent forms to complete and/or sign. Please read these carefully. When these have been completed, we can then discuss an appointment time that works for both of us, along with any other questions you might have.
https://portal.therapyappointment.com/index.cfm/public:therapistdetail?directoryId=327DC8899D834B4E928EBBB88C41DF00
