Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
How can therapy help me?
Sometimes feelings and conflicts lie just below the surface of our awareness. Past conflicts, trauma and unhelpful patterns of behavior are often unconsciously recreated in present relationships. Therapy provides a frame to address & explore past traumas as they arise in the safety of the therapeutic dyad. While we cannot erase the past, therapy can help to form a new relationship to that in our past which troubles us. It can help to reframe the past as a source of wisdom and identity leading to lasting change.
What is the initial session like?
The initial session is a consultation. I gather information, get to know you and you get a sense of me before making a commitment. We will discuss the sorts of problems you are experiencing and how they are affecting your life. I’ll ask you questions about yourself, what brings you in for therapy, your family history, your expectations and past experiences in therapy. If we agree to work together we can decide on a schedule of meetings and agree on goal(s) you wish to achieve.
What is a regular session like?
I prefer to let you start where you wish. During the course of a session, I will listen carefully, ask questions, share impressions, point out discrepancies, and pay attention to what is happening in the room between us, i.e. thoughts, associations, feelings, or sensations. I welcome you to share what is/isn't working and what would be more helpful along with thoughts, feelings and insights.
How often should I come in for sessions? How long are sessions?
Most people come to psychotherapy once or twice a week. In my experience, you feel the benefit when you commit to regular weekly sessions. Sessions are 50 minutes long.
If you are interested in psychoanalysis, this would be a commitment of meeting three times a week.
How do I know when it is time to stop therapy?
Our relationship is collaborative and the decisions on how often to meet or when to end can be explored in therapy.
What is your fee?
Individual Therapy: $150 per 50-minute session.
Couples Therapy: $190 per 60-minute session.
I offer a limited number of sliding scale fees to clients who cannot afford my full fee. Please contact me to discuss.
Do you accept insurance?
I am an out-of-network provider.I can provide a superbill to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement.
To determine if you have out-of-network benefits, first contact your insurance carrier. Check your coverage carefully and find the answers to the following questions:
-What are my mental health benefits?
-What is the coverage amount per therapy session?
-How many therapy sessions does my plan cover?
-How much does my insurance pay for an out-of-network provider?
-Is approval required from my primary care physician?
Do you prescribe medications?
No. Only an MD or NP can prescribe medications. I can refer you to a psychiatrist or NP to help assess if medications are right for you.
Are you meeting in person during the CoVid-19 pandemic?
At this time, I am conducting all sessions via telephone or Zoom.