Getting Started

Investing in Your Well-Being

Melanie Popiolek, MA, LPC, NCC Alchemy Transforms Getting started and investing in your well-being.
Melanie Popiolek, MA, LPC, NCC Alchemy Transforms Getting started and investing in your well-being.

Making the decision to begin psychotherapy is an investment in yourself, your well-being, and the possibilities for healing and personal transformation.

I believe that understanding your options for accessing care is an important part of beginning that process.

Alchemy Transforms welcomes both private-pay clients and clients utilizing insurance benefits.

Insurance Plans Accepted

I currently accept the following insurance plans:

  • Aetna

  • Blue Cross Blue Shield

  • Blue Care Network

  • Blue Cross Complete

  • Priority Health

Insurance coverage varies by plan. I encourage you to verify your mental health benefits, including deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance, before your first appointment.

Private-Pay Fees

For more information about your rights, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises

Sliding Scale Fees

I recognize that financial circumstances can affect access to psychotherapy. Sliding scale fees may be available, depending on individual circumstances and availability.

If cost is a concern, I encourage you to discuss your situation with me so we can explore whether a reduced fee is possible.

Out-of-Network Insurance Benefits

If your insurance plan is not listed above, you may still be eligible for reimbursement through your out-of-network benefits.

I am happy to provide a superbill that you can submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement. Because coverage and reimbursement amounts vary by plan, I encourage you to contact your insurance provider to learn more about your benefits and available options.

Payment Methods

For your convenience, I accept:

  • American Express

  • Discover

  • Mastercard

  • Visa

  • Health Savings Account (HSA) cards

Cancellation Policy

I understand that circumstances arise that may require you to change an appointment.

Appointments may be canceled or rescheduled without a cancellation fee when at least 24 hours notice is provided.

Cancellations made with less than 24 hour notice are subject to a $75 cancellation fee.

Making Space for Transformation

Appointment Hours

Appointments are available Monday through Thursday, from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., depending on availability. All sessions are scheduled by appointment only.

Standard individual psychotherapy sessions generally last 45–55 minutes.

IADC sessions are scheduled for 90 minutes each, across a minimum of two consecutive days, allowing dedicated time for this specialized therapeutic process.

In-Person Psychotherapy

In-person sessions are available at my Pleasant Ridge, Michigan office, providing a dedicated environment for therapeutic exploration, healing, and personal growth.

23650 Woodward Avenue
Pleasant Ridge, MI 48069

(Located in The Ridge office building, south of 696)

Virtual Psychotherapy

For clients who prefer the convenience and accessibility of online therapy, I also offer virtual appointments through a HIPAA-compliant video platform.

Virtual sessions provide an opportunity to engage in meaningful therapeutic work from a private, comfortable location while maintaining the personal connection and individualized approach central to our work together.

Virtual psychotherapy is available to clients physically located in Michigan at the time of their appointments, consistent with applicable licensing requirements.

Where We Connect

I offer both in-person and virtual psychotherapy, allowing you to choose the setting that best accommodates your needs and circumstances.

Melanie Popiolek, MA, LPC, NCC Alchemy Transforms Getting started and investing in your well-being.

Taking the First Step

I believe that finding the right therapist is an important part of the therapeutic process.

Before scheduling your first appointment, I offer a complimentary 10-minute phone consultation so we have an opportunity to speak with one another.

During this conversation, I will take time to learn a little about what brings you to therapy, what you are hoping to work toward, and whether my experience and services are appropriate for your needs.

Just as importantly, this conversation gives you an opportunity to ask questions, get a sense of how I work, and consider whether you would feel comfortable working with me.

I believe the therapeutic relationship deserves thoughtful consideration from both of us. My goal is not simply to schedule an appointment, but to help you make an informed decision about your care.

If we agree that working together may be a good fit, I will provide the necessary intake paperwork and personally schedule your first appointment.