Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

 

 

Discover our commonly asked questions, which are typical inquiries and the corresponding responses that you might have. Please get in touch with us if you can’t find the answer you’re looking for.

I have finally decided to get help. How do I get more information and an appointment right away?

You can reach us by filling out our Request an Appointment form or giving us a call at 216-407-6278. We have a 48-hour response policy Monday through Friday and will get back to you as soon as we can. 

Where are your offices?

To find our exact locations, please visit our Locations page. We have four locations: Beachwood, Fairlawn, Strongsville, and Rocky River. We also offer telehealth services.

What happens at the first appointment?
  • In the first session, the therapist and/or dietitian will conduct a thorough evaluation. It is important to get a good picture of what has been going on and what help you are looking for and need. You will leave the first session with recommendations for how to proceed and some immediate steps you can take to begin to feel better. It is always up to you how you wish to proceed.
  • All our providers are trauma informed, meaning we are sensitive to the experiences clients bring to their sessions and we respect that you know yourself better than anyone. While we can be directive when people are very sick from their eating disorder, we always respect your right to care for yourself as you see fit. Yes, we will challenge your eating disorder voice when it is hijacking your brain!
What forms do I need to complete?

One we have spoken with you, you will receive an email with instructions to set up your account in Therapy Notes, our patient portal. Once your account is created, you’ll find several forms that need to be completed. The email from our office manager will include step-by-step directions to guide you through the process.

What if I am receiving counseling somewhere else and only need a dietitian?

We understand that finding a highly trained eating disorders dietitian can be challenging. At The Hull Institute, our dietitians are experts in this field. You are welcome to work with them while continuing with your current therapist. Likewise, if you already have a dietitian and need a therapist, we are here to help.  All our providers communicate regularly with your team at The Hull Institute, and outside.

I have eating issues and wonder if I can just return to the therapist I used to see for other issues?

Our experience has shown that individuals with eating disorders need specialized care from trained therapists and dietitians. Most professionals agree that without specific training, they are not fully equipped to address the complexities of eating disorders and disordered eating. Working with a provider who lacks this expertise can delay recovery. If you wish to stay with your current therapist, which we often encourage, we can consider adding a second therapist and/or a dietitian from The Hull Institute.

At The Hull Institute, we connect you with experienced clinicians who are best suited to support your needs. Contact us to get started on the right path to healing.

I have so many insurance questions. How can I find out if The Hull Institute is covered by my plan?

Navigating insurance and payments can be complex, at The Hull Institute, we’re committed to helping you access care. Here is what you need to know:

1. Checking Your Insurance Coverage

  • If you have commercial insurance through your employer, parent, or spouse, the best place to start is to review your benefits online.  You can check your co-pays and annual deductible online as well, and this information is almost always the most accurate.  You can also call the Member Customer Service number on the back of your insurance card. Ask if The Hull Institute, LLC is in-network
  • If yes: Confirm your co-pay or annual deductible amount.
  • If no: Ask about Out-of-Network benefits. (We rarely need to use out of network benefits)
Do you offer services to people of all ages?

Yes, we do! Eating disorders do not discriminate. The Hull Institute has a team of providers who specialize in helping people from all walks of life. We see children, adolescents, teens, adults, and “seasoned” adults. Parents: if you have an adult child (over age 18), they need to call us on their own, or with you.

At The Hull Institute, we are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring that all individuals—regardless of race, gender identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, or background—have access to compassionate, high-quality care. We are dedicated to serving people from diverse backgrounds, especially those wishing to use their insurance benefits to receive the care they need.

Who should I reach out to if I have a question about billing?

If you have a question about billing, please contact our billing specialist, Debbie Quella, at debbiequella@hullinstitute.com.

What can I do if I feel my privacy or other rights have been violated?

If you believe we have violated your privacy or other rights, you have the right to file a complaint in writing with our Privacy/Client Rights Officer Ann Hull Kuster, at annhull@hullinstitute.com or (216) 407-6278. You can also file a complaint with the Secretary of Health and Human Services at 200 Independence Avenue, S.W. Washington, D.C. 20201 or by calling (202) 619-0257. We will not retaliate against you for filing a complaint. If fact, Ann very much wants to talk with you about any/all concerns you may have.

Where can I find the client portal?

You can find our client portal by going to the following link: https://www.therapyportal.com/p/hullinstitute/

If you don’t have a portal account yet or have forgotten your password, please contact our office manager, Meghan Todd, at meghantodd@hullinstitute.com.