What to Expect
Starting therapy can bring up a lot of questions, and that’s completely normal. You might be wondering what the process looks like, how long therapy lasts, or how payment works. Below, you’ll find answers to common questions about the structure of therapy—from the first phone call to ongoing sessions—as well as information about payment, insurance, and what to expect along the way.
What happens during the initial phone call?
The phone consultation is an opportunity for us to connect, for me to understand what brings you to therapy and if I can offer the services you seek. These calls last around 10-15 minutes. You’ll get a chance to hear about how I work and ask any questions you might have. If it turns out I’m unable to provide the assistance you need, we can talk about how you can get connected to another provider. If it seems like a good fit, we can discuss your goals, meeting preference (virtually or in person), and schedule an appointment.
What if I'm not sure that what I'm going through is "bad enough" for therapy?
If you’re wondering whether therapy could be helpful, that’s usually a sign it’s worth exploring. I hear you comparing your situation to others, and I wonder—how is that helping you get closer to the life you want? If something is weighing on you, causing you stress, or keeping you stuck, that’s reason enough to start therapy. Your experiences matter, and you don’t have to hit a breaking point to benefit from support. In fact, many people find that starting therapy before things feel like a crisis helps them navigate challenges with more clarity, resilience, and confidence.
What can I expect for the first session?
The first session is a chance for us to get to know each other. We’ll talk about what’s bringing you to therapy, what you’re hoping to work on, and any concerns you have about the process. There’s no pressure to have everything figured out—this is just a starting point. I’ll ask questions to better understand your experiences, and we’ll begin shaping a plan that feels right for you.
How long does therapy last?
Therapy looks different for everyone. Some people come for just a few months to work through a specific challenge, while others engage in therapy longer to reach different goals. Most clients start with weekly sessions, and as things improve, we can shift to biweekly or occasional check-ins. The goal is to find a rhythm that supports your growth while respecting your time and needs.
When do I stop going to therapy?
Ending therapy is an important part of the process, and we’ll approach it with care. Some people prefer a gradual transition, such as spacing out sessions before fully ending, while others prefer to wrap up when they feel ready. Before we end, we’ll reflect on the progress you’ve made, the tools you’ve gained, and how to continue supporting yourself moving forward. I also offer booster sessions, which are occasional check-ins if you ever need extra support down the road. Therapy doesn’t have to be all or nothing—it’s something you can return to whenever you need it.
I don't live in NJ. Can you still be my therapist?
Yes! I am licensed in 43/50 states. I can provide telehealth services if you are located in one of these states or jurisdictions: Alabama Arizona Arkansas Colorado Connecticut Delaware District of Columbia Florida Georgia Idaho Illinois Indiana Kansas Kentucky Maine Maryland Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands It is best to take these calls in a quiet and secure location, where you feel you are able to speak freely. You will receive a link to a secure, virtual conference room prior to our appointment. You can request to receive this link via text message or email.
How much does each session cost?
The rate is for $250 per session for each session. Sessions generally last 55 minutes. Please do not feel dissuaded from therapy if cost is a concern for you. Most insurance plans offer some coverage for mental health benefits. To check your mental health benefits, please call your insurance carrier and ask: --How much does my insurance pay for an out-of-network provider? --What is the coverage amount per 55-minute therapy session from a licensed clinical psychologist (CPT code 90837)? --How much of a $250 fee can I expect to be covered? --Is there a limit to the number of therapy sessions covered? --How do I submit superbills? --How will I receive my reimbursement, and how long does it take for the claims to be processed? --While payment is due at the time of service, I can provide an itemized monthly billing statement that you can submit to your insurance company for reimbursement if you have out of network benefits. Clients are also often able to use their HSA or FSA accounts.
Why don't you take insurance?
I choose to work out-of-network so I can provide the best care without the restrictions that insurance companies often impose. Insurance providers sometimes limit the number of sessions, require a mental health diagnosis, or dictate the type of treatment used. By working independently, I can tailor therapy to your needs—not to insurance guidelines. That said, I understand that therapy is an investment. If cost is a concern, we can explore ways to make therapy more accessible, including submitting superbills for potential reimbursement.
What is a superbill?
A superbill is a detailed receipt for therapy sessions that you can submit to your insurance for possible reimbursement. Since I’m an out-of-network provider, I don’t bill insurance directly, but many clients receive partial reimbursement depending on their plan. If you’re interested in using your insurance benefits, I recommend calling your provider to ask: Do I have out-of-network benefits for mental health services? What percentage of my session fee is reimbursed? Is there a deductible I need to meet first? If your plan offers reimbursement, I’ll provide a superbill that you can submit to your insurance.
Effective January 1, 2022, the No Surprises Act protects uninsured or self-pay individuals from unexpectedly high medical bills. Individuals choosing private pay (or without health insurance) will receive a “good faith estimate” of what they may be charged upon request or after scheduling an appointment. If you receive a bill that is greater than $400 in excess of the GFE, you may be eligible for payment through the patient-provider dispute resolution (PPDR) process. There is a $25 administrative fee to begin the PPDR process (which may be recovered). Here is more information on the No Surprises Act and your rights.
What is a Good Faith Estimate?
Effective January 1, 2022, the No Surprises Act protects uninsured or self-pay individuals from unexpectedly high medical bills. Individuals choosing private pay (or without health insurance) will receive a “good faith estimate” of what they may be charged upon request or after scheduling an appointment. If you receive a bill that is greater than $400 in excess of the GFE, you may be eligible for payment through the patient-provider dispute resolution (PPDR) process. There is a $25 administrative fee to begin the PPDR process (which may be recovered). Here is more information on the No Surprises Act and your rights.
What should I do if I'm experiencing a crisis?
If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, there are resources available to you 24 hours a day/7 days a week. You can call or text 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or you can go to your nearest emergency room.