How do I know if you’re the right therapist for me?

Therapy is all about the relationship developed between two people… feeling comfortable enough to open up about things that may make you feel vulnerable, and trusting the other person to hold this space and keep it safe. Having a good fit is KEY. I encourage people to “shop around” and find the best therapist for them. Sometimes that’s me, and sometimes it isn’t. The best way to tell is to meet together, and have some open communication about the things you might be looking for. On my end, I will also be open and transparent if for any reason I do not think I’d be the best therapist for you. If this happens, I can help you find a therapist who might be better suited to your particular situation.

You say you work with childfree women, but I have kids! Can I still work with you?

Yes, of course! I work with a lot of really incredible moms, including postpartum. The moms I connect best with are strong willed women who are wanting to maintain (or get back) their own identity outside of just being a mom. Usually they are trying to do it all and feel like they are failing on multiple (or all) fronts. I help women dig into their deep individual desires and find clear pathways towards being a truly badass woman and a good enough* mother (which then sets a great example for the little people watching her). (*good enough mothering is a classic therapy term, and a great reminder that YOU DO NOT HAVE TO BE PERFECT)

What should I expect about starting therapy with you?

Sometimes people prefer to have a phone or video consultation first, other times people like to schedule online right away and meet for a telehealth session. Either way works for me. All my clients complete an online intake packet before attending their first session- this includes my practice policy information as well as some information about yourself. Most people find the intake questionnaire very helpful to getting started.

The first couple of sessions are typically when we will start to get to know each other. It normally takes 3-5 sessions to develop a feel for what our work will be like. It is best if these first sessions happen on a weekly basis. If sessions are further apart to begin with, it is hard to get the needed momentum going.

Please note- If you are interested in doing Active Walk & Talk Therapy sessions- we will meet online for our first session.

Do you offer more frequent or less frequent sessions (than weekly?)

YES! I have people who like to come 2x a week, and some who come bi-weekly. As mentioned above, starting out it is best to come at least weekly.

Speaking of insurance, do you take my insurance?

I am an accepted out of network provider for most plans. I am not currently taking in-network insurance for new patients.

How do I get reimbursed from my insurance for sessions?

First, you will need to check with your insurance provider and make sure you have “out of network benefits”. If you do, they will provide some information about how much is covered (often a percentage, sometimes after meeting a deductible). You will pay me upfront for your sessions, and then submit a “superbill” (which I can send you monthly) to get reimbursed. Most plans you can find your coverage and benefits information online. But for some plans you may need to call and speak with a human- if you do call, here’s a form with all the information you need and the questions to ask. Click here!

I live in New Jersey, can you still be my therapist?

YES! I am fully licensed in both New York AND New Jersey!

Why do you ask for a credit card with your intake paperwork?

Like most doctors or professionals where you book an appointment time (and even some restaurants where you make reservations), I keep a credit card on file to reserve your time spot. Your time is your time. I do not double or overbook, and very rarely ever run late. Aside from the very occasional and rare emergencies (approximately once every 4 years), your sessions will start and end on time. If you do not cancel your appointment with at least 24 hours notice, your credit card will be charged the full session fee.

What forms of payment do you accept? What method do you prefer?

I accept all credit cards, as well as FSA & HSA cards. I love the convenience of credit cards- it’s easy for me, and it’s easy for my clients. Credit cards do charge a small fee, however- so if you prefer to pay by check or cash, let me know and we can figure it out.

What kinds of dogs do you have? How often do they make appearances on Telehealth sessions?

I have a 8ish year old Treeing Walker Coonhound, adopted from Sean Casey Animal Rescue in Brooklyn, NY named Lulu and a 5ish year old Pitbull, adopted from Ulster County Canines in Saugerties, NY named Penny. They happily come to work with me everyday in my home office, and bark at the mailman daily (usually around noon). For the most part they sleep all day, as dogs do- but sometimes sit next to me on my office futon and enjoy saying hi to humans on the other end of the computer.

What about the cats?

I have a fabulous Brooklyn street cat named Warren (after Elizabeth Warren) who doesn’t usually make work appearances, and a rambunctious 3 year old named Rory who likes to sit on my lap.

Is your last name Peterson or Nasherson?

I am a true procrastinator and have taken 6 years to change my name over to Nasherson after getting married. It’s a slow, and continuing process- but most of my life (and business) have switched over. You might still see older posts or references to Peterson. I’m the same person! And for now, both website URLs work too!

Please contact me if you have any other questions!