Welcome to the Reunify Alaska FAQ page!

Below, you’ll find answers to frequently asked questions about our services and the field of forensic social work, which is a vital part of our mission to support families and individuals navigating complex legal and family dynamics.

General Information

What is Reunify Alaska? Reunify Alaska is founded and operated by Melissa Skarbek, LMSW, LCSW who has passion for helping individuals. In utilizing avenues of therapy, she is committed to promoting positive outcomes for children, individuals, couples and families across Alaska.

Where are you located? Reunify Alaska is located in Anchorage, Alaska but serves families across the state, with both in-person and virtual support options to accommodate rural and in-town.

What makes Reunify Alaska unique? With specialization in combining therapeutic and professional expertise to address dynamics within the personal or familial setting, Melissa has a vested interest in the betterment of her community and state.

Do you work with Native Alaskan families? Of course! Culturally sensitive services are available and can be tailored to meet the needs of Native Alaskan families, honoring their traditions, values, and community dynamics.

Can attorneys or courts refer clients to you? Absolutely! Cases are often referred through attorneys or court orders, however, clients outside of the legal arena are also encouraged to procure services independently.

Who can use your services? Therapeutic services are provided to individuals (children, teens, adults, couples and families) aged 5 to 50 years.

Services

Can Reunify Alaska help with high-conflict custody situations? Yes, specialized services in reunification therapy and co-parenting therapy are designed to address the challenges of high-conflict cases and complex family dynamics.

What if one parent refuses to participate in services? While it is highly encouraged that both parents engage, services can still be provided to the willing parent or make recommendations to the court to address the lack of participation. However, for minor children the consent from both parents is required (outside of court orders stating otherwise) prior to effectuating therapy.

Do you work with children directly? Yes, many different services at Reunify Alaska involve working directly with children, including reunification therapy, assessments, and supervised visitation.

Are your services court-ordered or voluntary? Both! Melissa works with court-referred families and those seeking voluntary support.

Do you offer virtual services? Yes, virtual sessions for families in remote areas or those preferring online support is available.

Costs and Payment

How much do your services cost? Fees for services are determined based on the specific type and scope of the service provided. Each case is unique, and costs are tailored to reflect the time, resources, and expertise required. For a detailed fee schedule or to discuss payment options, please reach out directly. This ensures transparency and helps provide clarity on what to expect.

Do you accept insurance? Therapeutic services, outside of Reunification and Co-parent Therapy, are typically covered under insurance. Reunify Alaska is in-network with Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, Cigna, UMR, Meritain and both Premera and Federal Blue Cross Blue Shield.

Do you offer financial assistance? Unfortunately Reunify Alaska does not offer financial assistance at this time.

Scheduling and Appointments

How do I schedule an appointment? You can schedule an appointment by calling 907.792.9226 or emailing Admin@reunifyalaska.com. If you would rather schedule online, please visit https://melissa-skarbek.clientsecure.me/

What is your cancellation policy? I require at least 24 hours' notice for cancellations to avoid being charged a cancellation fee.

Reunification Therapy

What is Reunification Therapy? Reunification Therapy helps repair and rebuild parent-child relationships, focusing on communication, trust, and healthy family dynamics.

How long does Reunification Therapy take? The process varies depending on the family’s needs and circumstances but typically involves multiple sessions over several months.

What is the goal of Reunification Therapy? The primary goal of Reunification Therapy is to repair and strengthen relationships between a parent and child who have experienced estrangement, conflict, or prolonged separation. It focuses on fostering trust, improving communication, and ensuring the child's emotional well-being.

Who benefits from Reunification Therapy? Reunification Therapy benefits children and parents involved in high-conflict divorces, cases of parental alienation, Resist-Refuse Dynamics (RRD) or estrangement situations where one parent has been absent due to legal, emotional, or geographic reasons.

Is Reunification Therapy court-ordered? It can be court-ordered or voluntarily sought by families. Court-ordered therapy often includes specific directives for participation and compliance.

Additional Questions

Do you charge for consultations? 15-minute initial consultations are free.

Do you offer same-day appointments? Same-day appointments may be available for urgent cases.

Are you planning to expand your services? Reunify Alaska continually assesses community needs and aims to expand services offered as they are needed. This can include training programs, community outreach, and enhanced virtual services.

How can I get more information? Contact Reunify Alaska at 907.792.9226 or Admin@reunifyalaska.com. Social media channels are currently under development, but updates on services and events will soon be available through those platforms and a newsletter subscription. Stay tuned for more ways to stay connected!