Frequently Asked Questions

Do you accept insurance?

No, I do not accept any insurance plans at this time. I do accept all credit cards (including FSA or HSA cards), VENMO, PAYPAL, and ZELLE. I can provide any documentation needed for you to submit to your insurance company if you have out of network benefits.

My fee is $125 for individual sessions and $150 for couples sessions. For assessments the fee is $450.
 

What are your credentials?

I am licensed by New York State in Mental Health Counseling. I am also Certified by NYS OASAS (Office of Alcohol and Substance Abuse Services) as an Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor.

I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, my Master’s Degree in Psychology, and my Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling all from Marist College.
 

What is a Licensed mental health counselor (lmhc)?

Mental health counseling is a particular psychotherapeutic discipline. In other states, a licensed mental health counselor is also referred to as a PC (Professional Counselor) or LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor). Like other mental health professionals, mental health counselors can identify and treat mental illness. However, we tend to use a more strength-based approach. I use a number of therapeutic approaches with each client, depending on what is needed.
 

how often do i have to attend therapy and for how long?

I believe therapy works best when a client can commit to weekly sessions, at least initially. I do see clients every other week if needed. I try to avoid going longer than two weeks between sessions, however depending on one’s individual circumstances, I try to be flexible and can accommodate most schedules.

Some individuals attend therapy on a continuing basis as a form of self-care and others come in for a brief time to focus on a specific goal. I also have individuals who have completed their goals and then come back periodically as needed. We can decide together what is the best course of action for you.
 

What happens when i call or e-mail you?

When you call I will answer the phone or you can leave a message on my confidential voicemail and I will call you back within 24 hours. If you e-mail, I personally will respond to you within 24 hours. Once we connect, feel free to ask any questions you have and I will ask you a couple of questions to determine if I am the best person to work with you. If I feel that I am not able to work with you (either because of scheduling or expertise) I will do my best to refer you to another mental health professional.
 

Is this confidential?

Yes. Even the fact that you contact me to inquire about therapy is confidential. Please note that due to confidentiality, if I see you out in public I will not acknowledge you first in order to protect your confidentiality, so please do not take this personally. Everything you say in session in confidential. There are circumstances in which I am legally mandated to break confidentiality, which include if you tell me you are going to harm yourself or someone else or if you report ongoing child or elderly abuse or neglect.

What do i need for an assessment?

I am certified to complete Impaired Driver Assessments by NYS OASAS. This assessment is accepted by courts, DMV, and IDP. Each assessment consists of a psychosocial interview, a collateral contact interview, and a urine drug toxicology screening (submitted at Labcorp). Please contact me to further discuss an assessment.