Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are there specific requirements for us to work together?
Yes! You must meet all of the following criteria in order for us to work together:
1. You are located Arizona, New York, or a PSYPACT state
There are over 40 PSYPACT states. Click here to see if your state is listed as an enacted state. If not, you are not eligible for treatment. Keep reading to see if you meet the remaining criteria…
2. Your symptoms be addressed appropriately via remote treatment
Not all symptoms can be addressed appropriately via online therapy. For example, if you are in a crisis, if you are abusing drugs or alcohol, or if you are thinking of harming yourself or others, online therapy is not the best fit for you. Keep reading to see if you meet the final criterion…
3. You are not involved in any legal, custody, or court-ordered proceedings
I do not provide treatment to anyone actively involved in divorce or custody proceedings. I do not provide court-ordered treatment or evaluation. If services are for a minor and parents/caregivers have split custody, all parties must consent for treatment and agree to be actively involved in treatment.
4. Your specific concerns are within my areas of expertise and I feel that I can provide you with the best treatment possible and that it is in your best interest to receive services remotely
Every situation is different, and sometimes I feel that it is in a patient’s best interest to work a different provider.
5. You have access to a computer with a webcam, ipad or tablet, or a smartphone and you have internet access fast enough to stream Netflix or Hulu.
One of the wonderful things about online therapy is that you are able to participate in your therapy session wherever you feel comfortable and free of distractions or interruptions. As long as you have an internet connection, and a computer, smartphone, or tablet, you're all set! I always encourage people to think about their own privacy and confidentiality when choosing when and where to hold sessions, so keep that in mind when you're making that decision.
What are your fees?
My current fees are listed on the Fees and Insurance tab. Fees may be flexible based on the type of services you choose and if there are sliding-scale slots available. If you are not able to afford my rates for weekly treatment, there are specific circumstances in which we can create a tailored "self-directed" treatment option after the initial evaluation.
How long does treatment last? How long are sessions? How many times per week?
I feel that the effective management of OCD and anxiety disorders requires that each patient is to be viewed as unique in terms of their level of impairment, their previous treatment encounters, their personal strengths and weaknesses, environmental forces and personal attributes that both impede and propel the recovery process. Therefore, I offer a variety of levels of care, each tailored specifically to the needs of the individual patient. Unique to my approach is my willingness to work with patients in the very situations where the fear is triggered, be it in the home, in a mall, in a hospital waiting room, restaurant, elevator, or commercial airline. E-therapy makes all of this possible no matter where you live. This “exposure in vivo” (in the very situation where the anxiety occurs) is a uniquely powerful tool, often bringing about extremely rapid progress in conditions previously considered resistant or untreatable. Please feel free to explore my website to discover out how our unique treatment services can benefit you or a family member/loved one.
Generally, most individual sessions run for 45 minutes or 60 minutes or 90 minutes. Sometimes, it is determined that a patient requires more intensive services (e.g. IOP) and sessions are longer and more frequent. Patients are usually seen 1-3 times per week in the initial stages of treatment and then less frequently as they begin to see their progress. The more time you put in between sessions, the more benefit you will see.
When are your office hours?
My hours are variable depending on time zone and are flexible due to the fact that all appointments are currently provided by phone and video conferencing. I offer several options outside of regular business hours, such as evening and weekend appointments. Please be aware that afternoon, evening, and weekend appointments are highly sought after and these appointments can be booked several weeks to months in advance. You may request to be put on a wait list in case of cancellations.
How will you determine what is the best treatment and number of sessions for me?
After the initial assessment, I will discuss your treatment plan and share a timeline for therapy. Generally, I will prefer to meet with you more often in the beginning of treatment and will taper off as skills are acquired and momentum is gained. Treatment planning is a collaborative process so you will be offered multiple opportunities for input.
Are you available between sessions?
I am not on call outside of office hours and do not provide emergency crisis services. In non-urgent situations, I encourage patients to contact me by email for brief questions and you may also provide updates and journal entries on the secure patient portal. Email is considered a courtesy and is not the preferred means of contact for urgent matters.
