What is the first step in me electing one of your services?

The first step will be mutually decided upon at the end of the free consultation. There is no charge to discuss your situation and to determine if we are a good fit to work together.

Do you need a license to do advocacy work?

At the current time, there is no licensure for this profession. Many advocates are people who have experienced what you are facing and learned their own ways to navigate a situation more easily. I have that experience plus a background as a licensed marriage and family therapist, speech pathologist, teacher and college administrator. I believe that educational background makes my ability to do this work exceptional.

What do you charge for your services?

Services are billed at an hourly rate, plus mileage for travel ($.50 per mile). Travel time is not billed if it is less than 30 minutes but is billed if it is more than 30 minutes. For example, let's say I am going with you to get a second opinion. It takes me 30 minutes to travel to the doctor's office. The charge would be only for the number of miles at $.50. If it takes more than 30 minutes for travel, I will bill one half of the hourly rate plus the number of miles.

What is your hourly rate?

Each situation varies and I take into consideration the length of time and preparation involved in my service. The rate can be as low as $50.00 per hour to $75.00. I also often give one price if we know that my involvement will be limited to 3-4 sessions. As noted in question #7, I do bill for portions of an hour. I provide you a monthly statement of all charges.

Do you have references?

To protect the confidentiality of those I serve, I will contact them and ask if they will speak to you about my abilities. I would then give them your contact information so their identity is protected.

Are you on call 24/7 or do you have specific hours?

As a general rule, yes. However, there may be times when I am not available and I will make sure to give you notice of this fact prior to being unavailable. I also will note and bill for calls in increments (10 minute call is the hourly rate divided by the number of minutes).

Where are you located?

I have an office in my home. I also often meet clients in their homes or offices or in local establishments like restaurants.

What areas do you serve?

I serve anywhere in the country if the service delivery is by phone or internet. For the onsite portions of advocacy (visiting doctors, hospitals and/or clinics), I limit my service to areas within 2 hours of Eau Claire, WI in any direction.

Does insurance pay for advocacy services?

At this time, insurance does not cover advocacy services.

Have you handled cases similar to mine?

Essential to the process of working with an advocate is the development of trust and rapport. I will clearly state if your situation is not one I've dealt with previously; however, in most cases, the process is quite similar. An advocate must demonstrate that they hear and understand your needs, your fears and your roadblocks. You will have a sense of this in the free consultation. If either of us doesn't think we are a fit, we will not begin any work together.