Matthew Gerst, PhD

Coronavirus Vaccine - Answers to Questions Consumer Reports has published "Answers to Key Questions About Coronavirus Vaccine" that appears both timely and comprehensive. Two emergency authorizations from the FDA have allowed vaccinations to begin, with more vacc...

Anxiety and Failing Grades in Sonoma County From the Press Democrat, reports of students with anxiety and failing grades has the Sonoma County education leaders concerned. There is evidence of a steep spike in failing school grades concurrent with increasing menta...

Ten COVID Anxiety Reduction Strategies The Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) published this list of the Top Ten Anxiety Reduction Strategies that can be helpful during this time of Covid-19. This list includes:

NAMI COVID-19 Resource and Information Guide The National Alliance on Mental Illness has published this COVID-19 Resource and Information Guide. (NAMI) is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions...

Teletherapy Consent Form - Matthew Gerst, PhD (This form is taken in its entirety from the Center for Stress and Management in San Diego, CA.)

COVID-19 Virus and the availability of Internet based teletharapy RE: COVID-19 Virus and the availability of Internet based teletharapy sessions. 

I provide in-network treatment for patients with either Aetna or Anthem Blue Cross insurance coverage. Many other insurance companies offer out-of-network benefits that make treatment more affordable. Clients with high deductibles can still benefit by having reduced charges based on any contracts the provider has with the insurance plan. In the age of confusing health care options, I would be glad to look at your coverage with you so that we can determine if you have benefits that would apply to behavioral health issues.

I have begun using a telemedicine portal called doxy to conduct video linked internet therapy with my clients. This has been particularly helpful in continuing to work with previous clients from my old Morgan Hill office. I can also foresee its usefulness with Sonoma County clients that have difficulty getting into an office for an appointment. Doxy protects confidential material better than a traditional system like Skype or FaceTime. Most (but not all) insurance will reimburse tele-therapy. Please contact me if you are interested in finding out if this tele-therapy option might work well for you.