frequently asked questions

Can I use my insurance?

Unfortunately, insurance companies' practices make it impractical for a solo practitioner to operate a business so I am not in-network with any insurances but can provide you with documentation that you can submit for out-of-network (OON) reimbursement if that is a benefit in your plan.  

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How do I know if I have out-of-network benefits?

Contact your behavioral health insurance provider to determine access and their process. Some insurance companies may request completion of a single-case agreement (SCA) which I am unable to do as that becomes a contractual relationship that should not be necessary for you to submit claims for reimbursement. This is a tactic to shift blame back on the therapist rather than the insurance for not allowing members to utilize these benefits.

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Do you work with any of the companies with ads on tv and radio?

During pandemic, venture capital (VC) flooded the therapy space and the VC growth cycle initially prioritizes scaling, even over ethics, to maximize returns. Like the 'boom-bust' of WeWork, a high-quality experience is offered to achieve dominance in the marketplace but as that's unsustainable, the incentives decline significantly. That is reflected in staff retention and recruitment and the caliber of clinical services for users.

Now there is further consolidation with insurance companies themselves majority investors in large tech platforms so there will be more control over the value both clients and clinicians will receive, as well as artificial intelligence integrated into, or directly providing, mental health care.

So no, though in the past I have been both a client and clinician on those types of platforms, ethics, quality, autonomy, privacy, and humanity are values I do not want to compromise.

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Do you offer income-adjusted, aka 'sliding scale' rates?

I work with members of Open Path Collective to offer this option, however there is limited availability.

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Why is therapy so expensive?

Our healthcare system is broken, wage stagnation has persisted for the past fifty years, and as a female-dominated field, therapy is emotional labor that is undervalued and underpaid. Private pay therapy rates are comparable to services like massage and acupuncture, hair styling and spa treatments, or physical therapy.

My rates are within an average market range for private pay psychotherapists across the states in which I practice, and account for my experience and specialization. I've completed and continue advanced education and training, and there are considerable additional operating costs for a solo private practice that are not shared; rent, liability and health insurance, licensure fees in multiple states, professional directories and organizations, website hosting and electronic medical record, credit card processing fees, and marketing. Income fluctuates monthly, there are seasonal lulls, and there is no paid sick or vacation time when you're self-employed. Rates also account for time beyond session required for documentation, correspondence, consultation, care coordination, and crisis intervention. In addition to my Health Coaching background, I also have a practical understanding of competitive and toxic corporate environments from my first career in marketing and design in Manhattan that other therapists may not.

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Do you use artificial intelligence?

​NEVER! No AI was even used for this website which I created entirely myself, including all copy and images! In addition to honoring my previously stated values of ethics, quality, autonomy, privacy, and humanity, AI is extremely harmful to the environment and a drain on resources that externalizes costs on public utilities and local communities. Especially in the context of mental health, technology is not the solution for the problems it creates, including eco-stress/anxiety.

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I'm not in Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, New Jersey, or Pennsylvania, or Vermont; can we work together or still meet for our scheduled session?

Clients need to be physically located in a private location in one of those six states where I'm licensed.

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Do we meet in the office or is telehealth an option?

I'm able to meet with clients in person, via telehealth on a secure video platform, or a hybrid.

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What are your qualifications?

I received my Master of Social Work degree from Rutgers University, am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) since 2018, and am a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC) in Pennsylvania. I have completed a Level 1 Internal Family Systems training with the IFS Institute.

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How do I get started?

I offer a complimentary fifteen-minute telehealth consultation to discuss your concerns, ask questions, and see if we are a good fit to work together. Contact me with several availability options to schedule an appointment!

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Is everything we discuss confidential?

As a mandated reporter, I am required to break confidentiality if I become aware or have suspicion of the abuse of a minor, elder, or anyone with a disability. Also, if clinical judgment indicates that you are at risk of harming yourself or others, I would take action which may include notifying your emergency contact, and/or local law enforcement to conduct a wellness check.

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When can we meet?

Currently I only offer sessions in office on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, and telehealth-only is available on Tuesdays and Thursdays. All appointments are scheduled between 10am-12pm, and 2pm-8pm.

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How long and often are sessions?

Standard sessions are 50 minutes.

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What if I need to cancel or reschedule?

I require 24 hours notice for both otherwise clients are charged the full session rate and this policy is applied consistently to all clients.​

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Can we connect on your personal social media accounts?

My professional ethics and boundaries do not allow me to accept invitations.​

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