What should I expect from therapy?
Therapy is a place to sift through those hurdles that may be holding you back from feeling your total fullness in yourself and your life. Psychotherapy is a really incredible experience. It is a process where (using tried and tested techniques), you can partner with someone with whom you feel understood, aligned with, and cared for. We will address any and all of the big or seemingly small problems, gripes, complaints, and general discontent you may be experiencing.
My clients tell me that they feel understood and supported in our time together. They appreciate my warmth and honesty. They value the deep understanding they gain of themselves in our work together as well as the practical and effective information/feedback they get from me.
What should I expect from the first visit?
It makes sense to feel a bit nervous or overwhelmed at the time of your first psychotherapy session! Most importantly, this is an opportunity for us to get to know each other and determine if we can be a good match therapeutically. The first session is usually a time for me to gather some of the important information about what brings you to treatment and what you would like to gain from it (don’t worry if you still feel uncertain about that, we can also figure it out together). We can set goals and decide how we will know if you are reaching them in a way that feels satisfying for you. After all, you are making an investment in yourself and it is important that you experience its worth.
How often should I schedule an appointment?
Most individuals opt to schedule a once-weekly session. This timing is usually most beneficial since it gives a nice regularity of sessions to put in the necessary hard work of therapy, but allows for some downtime in between to mull over and practice out what we discuss in session. However, some clients choose to meet twice weekly or once every other week depending on what they are dealing with. On occasion after working together effectively for a period of time, we may decide to decrease session time to once every few weeks as a “maintenance” check-in if we both deem it to be effective.
What is your professional background and expertise?
I currently see clients exclusively in my private practice as well as teach at NYU’s Child and Family Post Graduate Program in addition to lecturing for various institutions for professional development.
I typically employ psychotherapy techniques that incorporate CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic Therapy, ACT, EFT, and Narrative techniques. I am not a purist to one particular methodology as I do not believe in one-size-fits-all. I pride myself on my flexibility and creativity as a therapist and I work with you to tailor a plan that best fits you.
I graduated with my MSW from NYU School of Social Work in 2008 and earned my LCSW licensure in 2012. I have worked in multiple settings including hospitals, healthcare agencies and several schools.
How will I know if you are the right therapist for me?
This is one of my favorite questions because it is the most important one! A psychotherapist may have every certification and expert background known to man, but ultimately, the sessions will only be therapeutic if the match is right.
My personality is one of honesty, tact, warmth, and authenticity coupled with professionalism and respect. You will likely know within the first session if you are totally turned off by that or curious by it. Within the first few sessions you will notice if you look forward to meeting and if you feel a connection with me. I constantly remind my clients that we can speak openly about their feelings toward me (both positive and negative) so we can ascertain if we are the right match. This is something we will frequently assess to insure you are getting the care you deserve.
How do I know if my child needs therapy?
In short, if you notice your child isn’t experiencing life as fully as he/she could, it may be beneficial to try therapy. Most importantly, if you notice a change in your child’s behavior, sleep, appetite, or personality.
Remember, children typically struggle with voicing aloud that they are having difficulty in a specific emotional area, and instead will show you through their actions. However, there are some children who are actually insightful enough and request therapy!
If your child is asking for treatment, you should certainly abide by his/her wish. Many parents believe that a child who is asking for therapy is just “seeking attention” (which is actually not a bad thing! I have lots to say on that - ask me more about it and I will happily share my philosophy). Even if this is the case, it is helpful to explore with a trained therapist ways your child could benefit from psychotherapy. Remember the analogy of the car - if you would take your vehicle to a trained mechanic when the check engine light goes on, please do the same for your child.
Do you provide teletherapy?
Yes! This is actually an area I have been honing my skills in for quite some time. With the advent of COVID-19 it has become even more relevant. While I understand that many people may feel hesitant about using teletherapy in place of in-person sessions, I have seen it work great wonders for my clients. In fact, several studies have shown that teletherapy may be as effective as in-person treatment (feel free to reach out to me if you would like links to this research).
What are your fees?
The first Intake session is $300. Each 50 minute session after is $250.
Do you take insurance?
I do not accept insurance. However, if your insurance plan allows for out-of-network coverage, you may be eligible for reimbursement. The process for that is relatively simple and I will provide you with a receipt of my services which you can submit to your insurance company.
Do you offer a sliding scale ?
Yes. I have limited sliding scale slots available at any given time.