Is therapy confidential?

Yes. It is. However, there are certain exceptions to confidentiality. These include times when a client threatens to harm themselves, others, or when there is suspected child or elder abuse.  During those times, protection of the public prevails over individual privacy and we are required to inform the appropriate authorities. It is important that you are aware of these important exceptions to therapeutic confidentiality.

What can I expect from the first session?

First sessions are known as intake sessions. These sessions are casual and comfortable. The purpose is to review the initial paperwork including covering informed consent, privacy, practice policies, and a verbal history of your goals, diagnoses, past treatment, and family history. At times, these administrative tasks may feel more clinical in nature but this helps provide important background information about who you are.

Does psychotherapy work?

Therapists bring expertise in understanding the human condition and are skilled in techniques designed to guide you toward achieving your goals. The process begins by getting to know you, allowing us to create a personalized plan in a supportive, non-threatening, and affirming environment. Together, we’ll set treatment goals, and you’ll receive practical "homework" to help you implement the strategies discussed in sessions. Don’t worry—there’s no grading involved! Homework simply means practicing the tools you’ve learned to make meaningful changes in your thoughts and behaviors. Psychotherapy, also known as counseling, is particularly effective in addressing anxiety, depression, anger, relationship challenges, trauma, grief, and existential concerns. Like improving physical fitness, enhancing emotional well-being requires effort and persistence. Progress varies from person to person, and if you ever feel stuck, discussing this with your therapist can be an important part of the process. Psychotherapy has helped countless individuals improve their happiness and overall quality of life. It’s no longer seen as just a tool for managing severe mental health conditions. Today, many high-functioning, successful people turn to psychotherapy to enhance both their personal and professional lives, using it as a resource for growth and self-improvement.

What happens if I bump into you in public?

Rest assured we will respond how you wish. We can pretend like we don't know you, or we could say hello as we might a neighbor. That is entirely up to you. If this is something that concerns you then we can certainly talk about it.

Fees

We charge $175 per 56 minute session for self-pay. At the present moment, we are in-network with Aetna and Medicare. If you wish use another insurance company then we would be happy to create a receipt (i.e., superbill) for you to submit to your insurance company where we are considered an out-of-network provider.  

We charge $250 per hour for psychological testing and assessment. We are out-of-network for these services.

Are you in-person or online?

We can accommodate you either in-person at the office or online from the comfort of your home or office. It is entirely up to you and what you feel comfortable with.  For those who are private, rest assured that my office is very discreet and it is unlikely anyone will make the connection that you are coming to a therapy session.