The questions people ask before starting therapy.
The practical ones: what stays between us, how long this takes, whether there is an office to come to, what online sessions are actually like and where you have to be for them, and what it costs.
Frequently asked questions
Is what I say confidential?
Yes. What you share in therapy is confidential, with certain legal and ethical exceptions that we'll review together before beginning treatment.
In couples therapy, I'll also explain how I handle information that may be shared with me individually so that both partners understand the expectations from the beginning.
How do I know if we are a good fit?
You don't have to figure that out from a website. That's one of the reasons I offer a free 30-minute consultation. You'll have a chance to tell me a little about what brings you to therapy, ask questions, and get a sense of what it would be like to work together.
I'm also considering fit from my side. If I don't think my experience or approach is the right match for what you need, I'll be honest about that and, when possible, help point you toward someone who may be a better fit.
Free consultation
Something still unanswered? Ask it in a free 30-minute consultation.
Schedule a free consultation
Getting started
How do I get started?
Send the form on the contact page with your name, your email, and whether you are looking for individual or couples therapy. I reply to arrange a free 30-minute consultation. If you would rather write to me directly, the email address is on the same page.
How long will therapy take?
There isn't a set timeline for therapy. Most clients begin with weekly sessions, and the length of therapy depends on what brings you in, your goals, and the work we're doing together.
We'll regularly check in about how things are going, what's changing, and whether therapy continues to be helpful. You're never committing to a predetermined number of sessions.
Sessions and format
Are sessions online or in person?
My practice is fully online. I provide secure video sessions for clients located in New Jersey and New York, so you can meet from the privacy and convenience of your own space.
Do you work weekends?
No. I offer weekday daytime appointments and limited evening availability. If evenings are the only time that works for you, let me know when you reach out and we can see whether our schedules line up.
How long are sessions, and how often will we meet?
Sessions are 50 minutes. Most clients begin with weekly sessions so we have the consistency needed to build momentum in the work. Over time, we can talk about whether a different frequency makes sense based on your needs and how the work is progressing.
What platform do you use, and what do I need for a session?
Sessions take place through SimplePractice's secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform. You'll receive information about how to join your session before we meet. A private space, a reliable internet connection, and headphones if others are nearby are usually all you need.
Fees and insurance
How much does a session cost?
$275 for a 50-minute session, and the same rate whether you come as an individual or as a couple. The 30-minute consultation is free. Payment is due at the time of the session and is collected through the SimplePractice client portal.
Do you offer insurance?
I don't participate directly with insurance plans and am considered an out-of-network provider. If your plan includes out-of-network mental health benefits, you may be eligible for reimbursement for a portion of the session fee. I can provide a superbill for you to submit to your insurance company.
Do you offer a reduced fee?
I keep a limited number of reduced-fee spots available for clients for whom the standard rate would be a significant financial barrier. Availability varies, so feel free to ask about this during the consultation and we can talk about what may be workable.
Privacy and boundaries
Is this a crisis service?
No. My practice provides outpatient psychotherapy and isn't designed to provide immediate or around-the-clock crisis support.
If you are in immediate danger or need immediate support, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) or call 911.
Are you a Christian counselor, and do I have to be Christian?
I am a Christian, and my faith shapes how I understand people, relationships, grace, and growth. For clients who want to incorporate their Christian faith into therapy, faith can be a meaningful part of our work together.
I also work with clients from different faith backgrounds and with clients who don't identify with a faith tradition. You don't need to share my beliefs for us to work well together. We'll approach faith in a way that respects your beliefs, values, and what is meaningful to you.
What if we already know each other?
If we already know each other in another context, we'll need to consider whether that relationship could affect our ability to work together therapeutically. The same can be true if I have a significant connection with someone close to you.
These situations aren't always straightforward, so feel free to reach out. I'll consider the circumstances carefully and let you know whether I think working together would be appropriate. If not, I'll do my best to help point you toward another therapist.
If your question is not here, ask it in the call.
If you only want the short version, the fees page has the numbers, the about page has the credentials, and the services page shows what each kind of session is for. For anything you send through this website, the privacy policy explains what happens to it.
Ask me the awkward question directly.
The free 30-minute consultation is the place for the ones a website cannot answer: whether I have worked with your situation, whether I am the right kind of therapist for you, and what happens next.