Hope Therapy
A Telehealth Solution for Individuals and Families Across Arizona.

Frequently Asked Questions

A vase of yellow daffodils on a windowsill with a white ceramic candle holder nearby.
  • The entire state. As long as you have access to stable internet and/or a smart phone, Hope Therapy can provide online/telehealth therapy anywhere in Arizona. I work with individuals and families across Arizona including people residing in Phoenix, Tucson, Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, Glendale, Scottsdale, Tempe, Peoria, Surprise, Yuma, Avondale, Goodyear, Flagstaff, Buckeye, Lake Havasu City, Casa Grande, Sierra Vista, Maricopa, Oro Valley, Prescott, Bullhead City, Prescott Valley, Apache Junction, Marana, El Mirage, Kingman, Queen Creek, Florence, San Luis, and other major and small areas.

  • I practice and provide unconditional positive regard, fully accepting and respecting you without judgment. I create a safe, compassionate space where you can openly explore your thoughts, feelings, and challenges. In our work together, I focus on building hope—helping you see possibilities for change, resilience, and growth.

    Hope is at the heart of my approach: it’s what helps you begin momentum, stay empowered, and stay courageous as you navigate life’s obstacles. My goal is to walk alongside you, supporting you in creating meaningful, positive change in your life.

  • Taking the first step toward therapy can feel daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone. The journey toward hope and healing begins with a simple action: reaching out.

    You can start by filling out my contact form. We will then connect and I’ll guide you through the next steps, answer any questions you have, and help you feel comfortable and prepared for your first session.

    Your path to support, growth, and positive change begins with just one step—and I’m here to walk it with you.

  • You can click on any of the “Book An Appointment” or  “Book A Consultation” buttons throughout the website (also at the bottom of this page). You will be directed to Hope Therapy’s scheduling system, Headway. From there, you can create an account and schedule a time that’s most convenient for you, complete online forms, reschedule or cancel appointments.

  • Depending on your availability, new clients can typically schedule their first session within 2 days-1 week.

  • All therapy sessions (including initial intake and follow-up) are 1 hour.

  • Therapy looks different for everyone, and the length of services depends on your goals, needs, and pace of progress.

    I typically begin with weekly sessions to provide consistent support, better understand your concerns, and help you recognize patterns and build new skills. Around the 6–8 week mark, many clients transition to bi-weekly sessions to encourage independence and allow more time to practice what they’re learning. As progress continues, session frequency usually decreases further.

    Most clients find meaningful improvement within 3–6 months, though some benefit from therapy for up to a year or longer depending on the complexity and severity of symptoms.

    My approach is always flexible and tailored to what feels most supportive and sustainable for you.

  • If you are having a psychiatric or medical emergency, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. You can also reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741.

  • Curious about how to discuss out of network and superbill options with your insurance company? Try using these questions when contacting your insurance provider:

    1. DO I HAVE A DEDUCTIBLE FOR OUT-OF-NETWORK CARE? IF SO, HOW MUCH OF IT HAVE I MET THIS YEAR?

    2. DO I HAVE OUT-OF-NETWORK BENEFITS FOR OUTPATIENT MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES (CPT CODE 90837 OR 90834)?

    3. WHAT PERCENTAGE OF THE SESSION FEE WILL BE REIMBURSED AFTER MY DEDUCTIBLE IS MET?

    4. IS THERE A LIMIT TO HOW MANY SESSIONS ARE COVERED PER YEAR?

    5. DO I NEED A REFERRAL OR PRIOR AUTHORIZATION FROM MY PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIAN?

    6. HOW DO I SUBMIT A SUPERBILL OR CLAIM FOR REIMBURSEMENT?

    7. HOW LONG DOES REIMBURSEMENT TYPICALLY TAKE?

    8. WILL THE REIMBURSEMENT BE SENT DIRECTLY TO ME, OR TO THE PROVIDER?

Online therapy for children, teens, and adults throughout Arizona.
Services provided via secure online therapy/telehealth.
📞 (808) 435-7244 | ✉️ melodyschmutz@hopetherapy.live

Appointment Hours
Sunday -Thursday: 3:00pm- 9:00pm
Friday/Saturday: Closed