During our first session, your therapist will gather some background information from you and you will have an opportunity to ask any questions. We will also cover the limitations of confidentiality and begin establishing a rapport with one another. We will share with you our style and ask you about your goals and expectations for therapy. In the end, we will determine if scheduling a session together seems right for you—if it is, we will schedule our next session so that we can get to work on your goals.

A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, counseling is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, and you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.

Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the courage to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. In our work together, I’ll help you explore and identify your strengths and how to implement them to reduce the influence of the problems you are facing.

Yes, our sessions are confidential with a few limitations, which involve suicidal or homicidal thoughts and plans, or if a child or an elder is being harmed. We will discuss these limitations in more detail in session. Even if you choose to complete a Release of Information form for a third party, limited information is provided and the specifics of your session are not shared.

An initial session is typically 60 minutes. Subsequent sessions are typically 30 to 60 minutes and we will assess together which session length is most appropriate for you and your needs.

We will meet virtually. Many start with a weekly session schedule. However, we will determine what frequency is most appropriate for you (weekly or every other week).

Yes, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Blue Care Network, Aetna, Cigna, Oxford, United Healthcare and Oscar Health commercial plans are accepted.

When your services are covered by insurance, we have to provide certain private information in order to demonstrate “medical necessity.” When you pay privately, all of your information is kept private and there is no requirement of a diagnosis that will be permanently attached to your medical record. If you choose to pay privately, we can provide you with a Superbill, and you may be able to get reimbursed by your health insurance provider for out-of-network services.

Yes, research has shown that online therapy is effective. Many find online therapy to be convenient as they no longer have to commute to and from the office. This may mean there are now more times available to meet with a therapist without missing work or having to rearrange other responsibilities. While we may not be in an office together, we are still sharing space and connecting which allows us to establish and foster a therapeutic relationship.

No. I am a Clinical Licensed Masters Social Worker and do not prescribe medication.  Medication can be effective but it alone cannot solve all issues. Sometimes medication is needed in conjunction with counseling. Our work together is designed to explore and unpack the problems you are experiencing and expand on your strengths that can help you accomplish your personal goals.

The only way to know if therapy is right for you is to try it. Keep in mind that it may take a few tries before you find a therapist that is a fit for you, and that is okay. Finding a therapist that is a good fit for you is like finding a supportive pair of shoes, you may need to try on a few before you find the fit for you but your fit is out there.

I am so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication will be crucial to your success.