About Psychotherapy — Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT CAN I EXPECT DURING THE INITIAL APPOINTMENT? When we meet for the first time, you can expect to be welcomed into a caring environment and treated with compassion and respect. I will ask some factual questions (name, address, etc.), and some questions about your physical health and family history. You will have ample time to begin talking about why you decided to seek support, and we will formulate some goals. This is an opportunity for us to get a sense of what it's like for us to work together. If, at the end of the first session, we decide for any reason that your needs would be better served by someone else, I will do my best to provide a referral.

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE? It is not possible to answer this question accurately, since the length of treatment depends on your individual needs. THerefore, you and I will regularly discuss progress toward your goals.

WHAT ABOUT MEDICATIONS? Only psychiatrists and other MDs are licensed to prescribe medication. I can refer you to a psychiatrist if you or I feel that medication might be helpful, but the final choice is always yours.

WHAT DOES IT COST? My fee is $150, per 50-minute session, by appointment only. Sessions are usually weekly, but we will develop a schedule based on your needs.

DO YOU PROVIDE ANY SPECIALIZED SERVICES? I do offer a 4-session package for couples entering marriage (i.e. premarital counseling) to examine both partner’s expectations and values, and discuss your views on the issues that often raise conflict in a marriage.
(Note: Sometimes it is appropriate to offer this package to couples already in the first year of marriage. A FREE initial consult over the phone will help us determine what is the best option for you.)

WILL MY INSURANCE PAY FOR MY SESSIONS? Some plans will reimburse for my services, so please check with yours to see if they will cover individual psychotherapy with a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist of your choice (i.e. out-of network). Payment is due at each session, but I can prepare a monthly statement for you to submit to your insurance company.
I am a provider for Aetna, and I am pursuing provider status with a few other select managed care panels, although many clients prefer to self-pay regardless.

WHAT DOES "LMFT" STAND FOR? "LMFT" stands for Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, which can be a misleading title, since I also work with individuals. MFTs are required to hold a Master's level degree, complete 3000 hours of training, and pass rigorous testing prior to becoming licensed. The MFT license is relatively new in NY state, but is rapidly being recognized by ancillary providers and health insurance plans. I am licensed in NY and CA, and I am a Clinical Member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists, and an active member of the NY State Metro chapter. You can check my license status at http://www.op.nysed.gov/.