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Common Questions | Manhattan | New York, NY

Is therapy right for me? 

Whether or not to seek therapy is an individual choice. There are many reasons why people come to therapy. Sometimes it is to deal with long-standing problems with anxiety or depression or other psychological issues. Other times it is in response to unexpected changes in one's life such as a divorce or work transition. Many seek the advice of trained therapists as they pursue their own personal exploration and growth. Working with a therapist can help provide insight, support, and new strategies for handling all types of life challenges. If you are suffering from depression, anxiety, conflict, grief, sexual dysfunction, unresolved childhood issues or need help with stress management, body-image issues, relationship problems or general life transitions a therapist can offer the tools to help. Whatever the reason that brought you to therapy, I am committed to providing with you with highest-quality psychotherapeutic care.

Who are your patients? 

My patients work in a variety of professions -- this has included attorneys, physicians, psychologists, sales professionals, actors, high school, realtors, college and graduate students, software engineers,  and artists, among others. They come from many different backgrounds and are of all ages.

How can therapy help me? 

A number of benefits are available from participating in psychotherapy. Therapists provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping strategies. Many people also find that therapists can be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, marriage issues, and the hassles of daily life. Therapists can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem, or point you in the direction of a solution. Some of the benefits available from therapy include:

  • Attaining a better understanding of yourself, your goals and values
  • Developing skills for improving your relationships
  • Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy
  • Learning ways to modify your thinking to prevent yourself from feeling depressed, anxious, or angry 
  • Managing grief, and other emotional pressures
  • Improving communications and listening skills
  • Changing old behavior patterns and developing new ones
  • Discovering new ways to solve problems in your family or marriage
  • Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence

What is therapy like? Every therapy session is unique and caters to each individual and his or her specific goals. It is standard for therapists to discuss the primary issues and concerns in your life during therapy sessions. It is common to schedule a series of weekly sessions, where each session lasts fifty minutes. Therapy can be short-term, focusing on a specific issue, or longer-term, addressing more complex issues or ongoing personal growth. Here are some things you can expect out of therapy:

  • Compassion, unconditional acceptance, respect and understanding
  • Perspectives to illuminate persistent patterns and negative feelings
  • Real strategies for enacting positive change
  • Effective and proven techniques along with practical guidance for implementing them

Do you accept insurance? How does insurance work? 

I do not directly accept insurance, but do accept Health Savings Account cards/Flexible Spending Account cards. If you have health insurance with out-of-network coverage, a large percentage of the fee can be reimbursed directly to you by your insurance provider. Typical reimbursement rates are between 65%-85% for out-of-network services. I would be happy to provide you with a bill for submission to your insurance provider. With the regularly changing laws regarding coverage of mental health services, you may have more insurance coverage for out-of-network benefits than you realize.  Please check with your plan. 

 Is therapy confidential? 

Yes!  However, there are some exceptions required by law to this rule. Exceptions include:

  • Suspected child abuse or dependant adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
  • If a patient is threatening serious bodily harm to another person. The therapist is required to notify the police.
  • If a patient intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to work with the individual to ensure his or her safety. However, if an individual does not cooperate, additional measures may need to be taken.