I’ve never done online counseling before, how does it work?

Teletherapy is a lot like in-person therapy! First, you’ll have a free 15-minute consultation (over the phone or video conference) where we’ll discuss what your goals are, what you’re looking for, and if I’m the right therapist for you. If we decide to work together, we’ll have regular phone or video appointments to address those treatment goals. Feel free to also check out my tips page where I outline how to prepare for a teletherapy appointment.

Is teletherapy as effective as in-person psychotherapy?

The short answer is yes, there is research to support that teletherapy is as effective as in-person therapy. If you’re interested in learning more, check out this article from the American Psychological Association where they explore the use of teletherapy in the age of COVID-19 and beyond:

Systematic reviews have also found that telepsychology delivered by video and phone is effective for depression, anxiety and adjustment disorder (Varker, T., et al., Psychological Services, Vol. 16, No. 4, 2019), as well as for substance use, eating disorders and other problems in children and adolescents (Slone, N.C., et al., Psychological Services, Vol. 9, No. 3, 2012).

When the pandemic is over, will you offer in-person sessions?

My psychotherapy practice is entirely remote and at this time I do not plan to offer in-person sessions.

I don’t live in a state where you are licensed, can I still work with you?

At this time, I am only licensed to provide counseling in New York State, Rhode Island, South Carolina, California, Georgia, and Connecticut. I am only authorized to work with clients who are located in the above states at the time of their sessions.

Do you accept insurance?

I am able to accept several insurance plans on an in-network basis. Please reach out to me directly to confirm your coverage before we get started. I also work with clients insured by many insurance companies on an out-of-network basis. My license, training, and education qualify for out-of-network reimbursement. This means that most insurance plans allowing members to go out-of-network for mental health will reimburse you for our work, according to the payments they allow. Check the nature of your insurance and what it will reimburse you. Some questions to ask your insurance provider are:

• Are virtual outpatient mental health visits (or teletherapy) covered by my plan?

• What is my out-of-network deductible for outpatient mental health visits?

• How much of my deductible has been met this year?

• What is my out-of-network coinsurance for outpatient mental health visits?

• Do I need a referral from an in-network provider or a primary care physician to see someone out-of-network?

• How do I submit claims for out-of-network reimbursement?

Do you have a sliding scale?

Yes, I have a limited number of sliding scale appointments available based on financial need. Please reach out to me directly if you are experiencing financial hardship and wish to explore this option.

What is your cancellation policy?

If you must cancel an appointment, 48 hours notice is required. If you do not provide 48 hours notice, you will be charged a cancellation fee equal to the cost of your session.

What are the risks of using technology for psychotherapy?

Some of the risks of using technology in psychotherapy include technology failure, breach of confidentiality by unauthorized persons (i.e., hackers), and limited ability to respond to emergencies. That being said, I have selected technology designed for health care and adopted a set of policies and procedures in order to minimize such risks.

What video conferencing platform do you use for teletherapy? Is it HIPAA-compliant?

I use SimplePractice, a HIPAA-compliant practice management system and electronic health record (EHR) software. SimplePractice has a telehealth platform that allows for secure video conferencing - it is easy to use and does not require any passwords to log in. Before our appointment, I will send you a link through my secure client portal that we will use to meet in my virtual office.

Can you recommend what type of device is best for teletherapy sessions?

For video conference sessions, I recommend a laptop or desktop computer with a camera and microphone. Tablets and smartphones are less optimal due to their smaller screen sizes. For other tips on a smooth teletherapy session, visit my tips page.

How do I get started?

Contact me to set up your free 15-minute consultation or book it directly online! I can’t wait to hear from you!