FAQ
1.
How do I know if therapy is right for me?
If something feels off, if you’re anxious, exhausted, stuck in the same patterns, or just know that something needs to change, that’s enough of a reason to start. You don’t need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy, and you don’t need to have it all figured out before you reach out. Most of my clients come in knowing something isn’t working; we figure out the rest together.
2.
What can I expect from the first session?
The first session is a conversation, not an interrogation. We’ll talk about what brought you in, what your life looks like right now, and what you’re hoping to get from therapy. I’ll ask questions, you’ll ask questions, and by the end we’ll both have a clearer sense of whether working together makes sense. Most people leave the first session feeling relieved that they finally started.
3.
Do you offer virtual sessions?
Yes. Telehealth sessions conducted via secure, HIPAA-compliant video. Telehealth is not a compromise. Research consistently shows it’s as effective as in-person therapy for most concerns, and many of my clients find that being in their own space actually helps them open up more easily. I see clients across New Jersey and New York.
4.
Do you accept insurance?
I’m a private-pay practice and do not bill insurance directly. This is an intentional choice, it keeps your care completely confidential (no diagnosis required for insurance records), gives us full control over your treatment without insurance company oversight, and allows me to tailor every session to what you actually need rather than what’s covered. If you have out-of-network benefits, I can provide a superbill — a detailed receipt you submit to your insurance company for potential reimbursement. Many clients get a meaningful portion of their fee reimbursed this way. I’d encourage you to call the member services number on your insurance card and ask about your out-of-network mental health benefits before we meet.
5.
What are your fees?
My session fees are shared during our free 15-minute consultation. I keep my practice intentionally small and my fees reflect the level of personalization, experience, and access I offer. I have 18 years of clinical experience and hold three licenses, and I bring all of that to every session. If you’re curious about whether my fees work for your budget, the consultation is the right place to have that conversation openly and without pressure.
6.
How often will we meet?
Most clients start with weekly sessions, which gives us enough momentum to make real progress. As things shift, we can adjust. Some clients move to every other week once they’ve hit their stride, and others want more intensive support during a particularly hard period. We’ll figure out the right rhythm for you.
7.
What makes your approach different?
I’m not a blank-slate therapist. I’m warm, direct, and genuinely invested in the people I work with. I don’t believe in sitting quietly while you talk into a void. I show up fully, ask real questions, and give you honest feedback when it’s useful. My approach draws from CBT, DBT, trauma-informed care, and creative arts therapy when interested, and I build every treatment plan specifically around the person in front of me. You won’t get a generic approach here.
8.
What is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
DBT "Dialectical Behavior Therapy" is a skills-based approach that teaches you how to manage intense emotions, communicate more effectively, set boundaries, and stay grounded when things get hard. It was originally developed for people who feel emotions very intensely, but the skills are genuinely useful for almost anyone. I integrate DBT into my work in a practical, accessible way, not as a rigid program, but as a toolkit you actually learn to use in your real life.
9.
I've never been to therapy before. Where do we even start?
We start exactly where you are. The first session is a conversation, not a test, not an evaluation. You tell me what's going on, I ask questions, and together we figure out what you need. Many people leave the first session surprised by how straightforward and helpful it felt.
10.
Do you have experience with narcissistic abuse recovery?
Yes, this is one of my core specialties. Many people who have experienced narcissistic abuse don’t initially come in with that framing. They come in feeling confused, exhausted, like they’re constantly second-guessing themselves, or wondering if they’re the problem. If that resonates, I’d encourage you to reach out. Healing from these dynamics is absolutely possible, and it often starts with finally having someone reflect back to you that what you experienced was real.
11.
I'm nervous about bringing up addiction. Will you judge me?
Never. I'm a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor. This is work I genuinely love and have done for years. There is nothing you can say that will shock or disappoint me. Shame is usually part of what keeps people stuck. We won't do that here. Also, many people start out just wanting to rethink their relationship with substances and aren't ready to be totally sober. All are welcome.
12.
What's your cancellation policy?
I ask for at least 24 hours’ notice for cancellations or rescheduling. Sessions cancelled with less than 24 hours’ notice are charged the full session fee. I know life happens, and I try to be human about it, but consistent attendance is one of the biggest factors in whether therapy works, so I take it seriously.
13.
How long does therapy typically take?
There’s no honest one-size answer to this. Some people come in with a specific goal and feel ready to wrap up in a few months. Others are working through deeper patterns and want ongoing support over a longer period. What I can tell you is that I’ll never keep you in therapy longer than you need, and I’ll always be honest with you about where things stand and what I think makes sense next.
14.
Do you work with LGBTQIA+ clients?
Yes, fully and without qualification. I work with LGBTQIA+ clients across the full spectrum of identities and experiences. You will not have to educate me or brace yourself here. This is a space where you can show up exactly as you are.