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.

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 in person/telehealth. 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 currently in-network with: Aetna, Oxford, United Healthcare & Oscar for individual, telehealth sessions only.

How do I get reimbursed from my insurance for sessions?

First, you will need to talk to 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). You will pay me upfront for your sessions, and then have 2 options for reimbursement. Through your personal online portal, you will have access to all your billing documents. Here, you can find a “superbill” after each session- and can submit this weekly for reimbursement. I am also happy to submit claims directly to your insurance provider for you, but will only do this once at the end of each month. Don’t know what to ask your insurance provider to see if you’re eligible- DON’T WORRY! I have a form with all the information you need and the questions to ask. Click here!

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 3 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. Having a credit card on file also is the most convenient form of payment for over 95% of my clients. Don’t worry about carrying cash or checks around- your card can be charged automatically.

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

I take cash, check, Venmo, Zelle Quickpay, and credit cards (including 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, that is 100% okay by me!

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

I have a 7ish year old Treeing Walker Coonhound, adopted from Sean Casey Animal Rescue in Brooklyn, NY named Lulu and a 4ish 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 2 year old named Rory who can sometimes swings by to say hello.

Please contact me if you have any other questions!