• banner image

    FAQs

    How do I know I need therapy?

    The signs are a bit different for everyone. If you find yourself having challenges with your relationships, work, or school, or if you are having some symptoms that are negatively impacting your sleep, appetite, or decision making ability, these may be some signals that you should seek professional help to learn about what is going on for you, and what you can do to help yourself.

    What does therapy provide?

    Therapy gives you an opportunity to understand yourself, others, and the world (especially because all of us have our blindspots). It can help you also find ways to change the unhelpful and controllable things in your life, and learn how to accept the things that are uncontrollable. Therapy can be the first step to help you make some lasting changes in your mind and behavior, that can lead to flourishing and emotional wellbeing.

    What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?

    The difference is between someone who can do something, and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, counseling is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.”

    Do I have to share everything in therapy?

    Therapy is designed to be a safe space that you can show up and be your authentic self, and discuss the difficulties that you may have faced/continue to face. It is helpful to come unfiltered and talk about whatever it is that is on your mind. Some topics may be more difficult than others to share, and the decision is always yours whether or not, and to what extent, you want to share these sensitive topics. You certainly will not have to talk about something that you wish to not talk about.

    How frequent/long is therapy?

    Both the frequency and length of therapy depends on many factors such as the complexity of the issues, your goals, and your willingness and motivation for change. I typically recommend weekly 45-minute sessions, especially in the beginning phase of therapy. Generally, situational stressors take fewer sessions to address, by comparison to issues related to ongoing mood difficulties, trauma, and abuse.

    Why shouldn’t I just take medication?

    Medication can be effective but it alone cannot solve all issues. Sometimes medication is needed in conjunction with therapy. Our work together is designed to explore and unpack the problems you are experiencing and expand on your strengths that can help you flourish and live a fulfilling life.

    What are your fees and insurance policies?

    Currently we are in network with Aetna, Highmark, and most Blue Cross Blue Shield plans (such as Anthem, Empire, Capital, Federal, etc), as well as Medicare, and Quest/Penn Behavioral Health. We can offer documentation for out-of-network benefits reimbursement through your insurance policy. There are some benefits to not using your insurance for therapy, such as further protecting your confidentiality, and allowing the therapist, not a third party, determine what is the best treatment plan for you.

    Current therapy session out-of-pocket fees are between $130 to $200.

    The fee for ADHD evaluations is $1700.

    Click here if you are interested in finding lower cost services in the Philadelphia area.

    Do you offer virtual therapy or in-person therapy?

    A virtual option is always available to anyone, and is conducted on a secure, HIPAA-compliant site. If you are fully vaccinated, we can do sessions in person and/or virtual.

    What if I need to cancel an appointment?

    We are all humans, and things sometimes get in the way of our schedule. If you need to cancel and reschedule a session, please give us a 24-hour notice. If the session is cancelled within 24 hours, you would have to pay for that session. Emergencies are considered on a case-by-case basis.

     

    I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help? What do I do next?

    We’re so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication will be crucial to your success. If you’re ready to start this journey, let’s begin with booking a free consultation.