Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing a new therapist or psychiatric provider can be challenging, particularly when you may already feel stressed, scared, or overwhelmed. Here are some details about my practice, policies, and what you can expect if we work together. You are welcome and encouraged to set up a call to ask more questions.
Do you accept credit cards?
Yes, I accept Visa, Amex, and Mastercard as well as transfers through Zelle. Payment is due on the day of each session. Your insurance company may reimburse you for my services. I will provide you with a statement at the end of the month containing the coding and information required so that you can submit your claim. I do not bill insurance providers directly. Prior to meeting with me, you may want to contact your insurance company to see if your plan covers “out-of-network mental health providers.”
What is your cancellation policy?
Appointments cancelled with less than 48 hours’ notice and missed appointments are billed at the full session rate.
Can therapy make a difference?
Research shows that most people who receive psychotherapy experience symptom relief and are better able to function in their lives. Psychotherapy has been shown to not only improve emotions and behaviors, but to be linked with positive changes in the brain and body as well. With the use of brain imaging techniques, numerous studies have identified brain changes in people with depression, panic disorder, PTSD and other conditions as a result of undergoing psychotherapy.
What Issues Do You Treat?
The concerns that I see most often in my practice are anxiety, depression, insomnia, loss of purpose, grief or loss, and difficulty maintaining healthy relationships at work, socially, or with family. I have special training and experience to work with people who have been diagnosed with life-limiting illness and their caregivers or family members.
What is a Psychiatric NP?
Psychotherapy can be provided by a number of different types of professionals with specialized training. Psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners have additional training and are able to prescribe medications. Medications (i.e. for insomnia, depression, or anxiety) are not always necessary or recommended, and I’m happy to discuss your options when we meet. As an NP, I focus on an integrative approach in which good nutrition, regular exercise, and adequate sleep are also essential in overall wellness.
Privacy Policy: All information discussed during sessions is confidential, provided your are not posing a threat to yourself or someone else, in which case we may seek out more help. I am obligated by law and by the medical code of ethics to protect your right to confidentiality and believe doing so is essential to promoting a safe space. If you wish for me to be in contact with anyone else in the course of your treatment, I get your explicit, written consent.
How often do we meet?
Psychotherapy appointments are usually scheduled at a regular weekly time. Appointments for medication management without therapy will be scheduled for every 2-4 weeks while adjusting your medications. Once we identify a stable regimen, we will expand the frequency to 3 - 6 months.
What can I expect from the first visit?
Our first conversation will be a complimentary 20 minute phone consultation to discuss what you’re looking for. If we both agree that I can be of help, we will schedule a full video therapy appointment. We will use the first visit to discuss what brings you in for treatment, take a history, and identify what you wish to change or treat.
