Frequently Asked Questions
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We always begin with a consultation and assessment. It’s free and usually takes about 15-20 minutes. During this time, you and I will have a chance to get to know each other. I will ask you about your concerns and a little about what brought you here, and you are welcome to ask me as many questions as you like. The consultation is meant as an introduction; to find out if we are a good fit. There is no obligation to continue.
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Participating in therapy offers many benefits. Though everyone has different goals, most find it helpful to have an unbiased third-party objective to help them work through difficulties like grief, relationship problems, unresolved childhood trauma, anxiety and stress, depression, addictions, eating disorders, and more.
Some of the things you can look forward to include:
Improved self-esteem and self-image
Gain confidence
Resolve interpersonal issues with intimate partners, parents, children, etc.
Improve coping skills
Change destructive behavior patterns
Better problem-solving
Better communication skills
Addiction recovery
Anger management
Recover from grief and loss
Cope with significant life changes
Reduce anxiety and stress
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I am licensed to practice in the State of New York. Thus, all sessions must take place within New York. I have in office appointments as well as on line sessions. These appointments are conducted virtually on a secure online platform and are scheduled just like a doctor’s appointment. This approach is convenient and private as you can attend your appointment from home or wherever you are, as long as you have an internet connection.
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I do not direct-bill third-party insurance companies; however, I am happy to provide you with invoices or Superbill that you can submit for reimbursement according to your plan, if you have coverage for psychotherapy. Payment is required at the time of your scheduled session. All major credit cards, cash, and Venmo are accepted.
I encourage you to check your insurance policy to understand what’s covered and the claims submission/reimbursement process. Look under mental health benefits and check what they cover, how many sessions, and what’s required to submit a claim.
The fee for the first 60 minute evaluation is $225. After, 45 minute sessions are $175.
I am an Out of Network Provider for NYSHIP/Beacon Health
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I am not a medical doctor and cannot prescribe medications. However, I am happy to work with your physicians and offer supervision as appropriate.
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Every person is different. With the right treatment approach, you may not require it, but it’s impossible to make a blanket statement on this matter. If I feel your issues would benefit from medication, I may liaise with your doctors and clinicians to ensure you have the right support in place.
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Yes! I welcome the opportunity to work with your doctors to ensure the best possible care for you. A team approach aligns objectives and removes barriers to effective treatment. I want to ensure you receive the best possible care, and I encourage you to be as transparent as possible so I can better understand the whole of you.
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It is impossible to put a timeframe on therapy as every individual has unique concerns and needs. Together, we will establish goals for your treatment and assess progress towards those goals over time.
Many find that therapy helps them stay on track even after their issues are “solved,” but ultimately, you get to decide. I will not hesitate to suggest what I think is best for you, therapy is a collaborative process and we will always discuss your progress and I welcome your input at all times. If you choose to leave therapy, that is entirely your choice.
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Counseling is a collaborative process. If you feel you are still stuck in certain thought patterns or behaviors, or if you want to try something different, you must speak up. Therapy works best when we work together. If our approach is not working for you, we can course-correct and get back on track quickly. By all means, do not hesitate to provide input.
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Yes. Eating disorders have the second highest incidence of death among all mental illnesses.
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Absolutely. It is vital to note that we can’t resolve the issue overnight. It may take years to change your behaviors and achieve long-term success. We can improve treatment results by simultaneously treating the underlying co-morbidities and maintaining a strong commitment to recovery. Gaining knowledge of proper nutrition is essential along the way, and some may need ongoing dietary supervision. Overcoming the eating concerns is a central goal, but is by far, not the only mission of recovery.
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Everything we talk about during our sessions is completely confidential. I may share information with your other physicians to further your treatment, but only with your express permission. The video link you will use to access your sessions is HIPAA compliant, which conforms to the highest data privacy and security standards. You can be confident that whatever we talk about in session stays entirely between the two of us.