FAQs

Traditional psychotherapy emphasizes cognitions, behaviors and feelings, using a range of methods involving the relationship with the therapist, increased awareness of the self/others, and developing new behaviors. Typically, conversations involve understanding behaviors by recognizing patterns, and drawing attention to the manner in which our behaviors are reinforced. For example, people often wonder “why do I lack motivation to complete [insert task].” The desired behavior involves motivation, and the factors contributing to a lack of motivation can vary from not enjoying the activity, to subconsciously fearing the consequences of engaging in the activity triggering feelings of fear/shame, and so on. The conversation in psychotherapy will typically involve increasing understanding of behaviors as well as compassion for the behavior, prior to instigating change.

Psychotherapy can be for anyone. Children, adolescents and adults can all participate in developmentally considerate variations. Some 3 year-olds have big thoughts and behaviors that are tough to handle without the support of a psychologist, and some adolescents are old-souls who need a safe place to practice their wisdom.

Our approach to working with children is “structured-fun.” So much of a child’s life is structured and the familiarity is calming, but the reality is that if your kid isn’t enjoying therapy, they’re not likely to learn. Kids learn social skills, emotional regulation and develop executive functioning through play. A child-therapist is essentially the ultimate playdate. We have a flexible schedule each week and can celebrate the victories as we complete tasks. Some children are more likely to feel safe with their parents involved in treatment, while others want their “own time.” We aim to accommodate whatever needs the child has for safety. We will establish goals directed by both parent and child, pertaining to topics like self-advocacy, emotional regulation, and social skills. How we approach goals will vary depending on the child’s interests, likely including play, talk and movement. With very young children, therapy is typically coupled with parent-consultation, involving sessions between the parent (s) and therapist. Child therapy is heavy on modeling, meaning caretakers are strongly encouraged to model any behaviors that they would hope to see in the child. Therapy is active and collaborative. Communication between sessions, trial and error, as well as flexibility are key.

Confidentiality and independence are often primary developmental considerations when working with adolescents. Limitations to confidentiality include self-harm and harm intended towards others. Often enhanced communication with parents is a component of therapy, and the adolescent client may elect to share aspects of therapy with parents. This is not a requirement but can be an outcome. Therapy goals vary depending on the clinical and emotional needs of the client, but developmentally conversations and body-awareness techniques concern identity. Identity work requires an “affirming environment,” meaning that I radically validate all cultural identities including but not limited to sexual orientation, gender, race, religion, personal interests, academic needs and social-life.

Our fees and caseloads are carefully curated, so that we are able to offer the optimal energy to every client and family that we see, with complete confidentiality.

When we are in treatment together, our team thinks about you and your family’s needs both in and out of session. With the added time of being an out-of-network provider, we plan our sessions, research relevant topics for your unique needs, create handouts/worksheets specific to your questions, consult with other care providers, and attend workshops that offer continued education in topics that you bring into the therapy room.

If you have a PPO insurance plan, we recommend that all clients submit our Superbills for partial reimbursement. Prior to beginning therapy, your PPO can give you an expectation of what to expect for reimbursement. Additionally, some plans require pre-authorization to work with an out-of-network provider, and it is recommended to reach out to your PPO prior to beginning treatment.

When possible, it is helpful for individuals go engage in weekly therapy until there is an established working-relationship (as quick as a month, or for the duration of therapy, depending on our stories and attachment styles). Additionally, weekly therapy is helpful until at least one of your goals has been accomplished, reinforcing progress. As therapy becomes easier and goals evolve, it is common to reduce frequency. But the truth is, mental health needs fluctuate over time. So even when you take a break from therapy, we are ready for you when you come back. Viewing therapy as a long or short term project varies depending on your generational, cultural, and personal beliefs - we don’t decide what’s best for you and are happy to support whatever you decide.