Frequently Asked Questions

The 15 minute phone consultation is free and is an opportunity for us to start to get to know each other. During this call, I would like to hear about what brings you to therapy,  and what changes you are hoping for. This allows us to determine if we think I am a good fit for your needs.  This is also an opportunity to discuss fees and insurance. Should you choose to proceed, we will then schedule three to four initial appointments, for evaluation, feedback, and treatment planning.

In the first two to three appointments, we will talk in more depth about your past and present, and identify what’s working for you, and what’s concerning you.  My goal will be to gain a better understanding of the factors that are contributing to the issues bringing you to therapy. In the first appointment, we will also review some forms, policies, and procedures.

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Starting therapy can be anxiety-provoking, and sometimes people avoid therapy for fear of being overwhelmed. While it is important for me to learn about you and your history, the most important factor in successful therapy is you feeling safe and supported.  During the evaluation process, I am trying to identify important events and factors in your life, but generally from a bird’s eye view. My goal is not to open up painful memories and issues; merely note what is there so that I can use that information in building my understanding of you. Nonetheless, sometimes uncomfortable emotions do come up in the evaluation phase of therapy; we will work together to help you manage these feelings so that you feel grounded when you leave the session.

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Our next meeting will be a  feedback session, in which I will share my clinical understanding about your issues and goals and present you with treatment options, explaining how and why they might be helpful to you.  You and I will then collaborate to choose the treatment approach that best fits you and your goals. I will be checking in with your regularly about your progress over the course of therapy. 

After we have chosen a treatment path, therapy typically involves meeting once a week for two to four months.  This is one of the benefits of evidence based treatments; they are not only highly effective, but time-limited. Some clients choose to continue with therapy after the initial treatment is complete, to address other goals, or for ongoing support and growth.

The connection and comfort you feel with your therapist is an important ingredient in successful therapy.   While therapy may at times feel challenging or uncomfortable, the therapy relationship itself should feel safe and supportive. I provide science-based treatments in a therapy relationship that is empathetic, accepting, and interactive. I balance seriousness and humor,  and listening and guidance in my work, always with a focus on helping you get where you want to go.  Please know that therapy with me is collaborative, so feel free to ask questions and share any thoughts or concerns along the way. 

I am licensed in Massachusetts and New York, and all of my sessions are via video. You will receive a secure video link prior to each session, and you can connect to our session via this link from a laptop, tablet, or cell phone. You are welcome to be wherever is comfortable and convenient for you, your home, your office, even your car (but only when parked, please!)  Wherever you connect from, please ensure that  you have privacy for our session.  Just as with in-person sessions, it is important to be able to be able to talk and express your feelings openly.

I am an out-of-network provider, meaning that sessions are paid for at the time of service by the client. Most of my clients choose to use their “out of network” insurance coverage, through which their insurance providers reimburse them for a percentage of therapy fees.  A typical rate of reimbursement is 50-80%. However, it is a good idea to contact your insurance provider before starting therapy to learn about their “out of network” coverage rates and details.  At the end of the month, I will provide you with a “superbill,” which is the documentation most insurance companies require to then reimburse you at the rate included in your plan.  

Please be aware that you may also be able to use Flex Savings and Health Savings Accounts to pay for sessions. Therapy fees may also qualify as a tax deduction, under medical expenses. Please consult the appropriate sources or professionals to clarify if these options are available to you.