Understory Therapy Book a consultation
Illustration of a maidenhair fern

Therapists who take Premera Blue Cross.

Yes. Understory Therapy is in network with Premera Blue Cross, and both of our therapists take Premera, in person in Ballard and on Vashon Island, or by telehealth anywhere in Washington.

How it works with Premera

Using your Premera benefits, start to finish.

  1. Book a free consultation

    Request a time on our calendar, or call or text us. Mention that you have Premera.

  2. We check your benefits

    Before your first session, we confirm your copay, coinsurance, or deductible with Premera.

  3. Have the consultation

    A free 30-minute call to ask questions and make sure we’re a good fit.

  4. Start therapy

    Most new clients have a first session within 5 business days. We bill Premera directly.

Our therapists who take Premera

Shivali Mashar, LMHCA

Shivali Mashar, LMHCA

In person in Ballard, Seattle, and by telehealth.

Behavioral therapy for teens and young adults, with a focus on identity and self-worth. Read Shivali’s bio.

Patrick Phelan, LMHC

Patrick Phelan, LMHC

In person on Vashon Island, and by telehealth anywhere in Washington.

DBT and CAMS for teens, young adults, and adults, including self-harm and suicidal thoughts. Read Patrick’s bio.

What we help with

What it will cost

Your cost depends on your Premera plan: whether you have a copay, coinsurance, or a deductible you’re still working toward. We verify your benefits before your first session so there are no surprises.

If cost is a concern, mention it when you reach out and we’ll talk through your options.

If you’d rather not use insurance, self-pay is $180 per session.

Questions about Premera

Do I need a referral?

Most Premera plans don’t require a referral for outpatient therapy. We’ll confirm when we check your benefits.

Does Premera cover telehealth?

Most Premera plans cover video sessions. We’ll confirm yours when we verify your benefits.

I have LifeWise. Can I see you?

Yes. We’re in network with LifeWise too.

My Blue Cross plan is from another state. Will it work?

Most Blue Cross Blue Shield plans from outside Washington work with us. Tell us the plan name on your card and we’ll check.

My teen is on my Premera plan. Can they be seen?

Yes. We’ll check benefits using the policyholder’s information, and your teen can be seen in Ballard, on Vashon Island, or by telehealth.

What if my insurance changes?

Let us know as soon as you can and we’ll recheck your coverage before your next session.

Get started

Ready to use your Premera benefits?

Request a time on our calendar for a phone or video call, and we’ll confirm it. It’s a chance to ask questions and see whether we’re a good fit, with no commitment either way.

Most new clients have a first appointment within 5 business days. We reply to calls, texts, and emails within one business day.

Prefer email? hello@understorytherapygroup.com. Please leave symptoms and health history out of email; we’ll cover that on the call.