Why do people begin psychotherapy?
People often say that they don't feel like themselves. Talk therapy may offer tremendous relief for people experiencing emotional distress, feelings of being in turmoil, or difficulties experienced in career or love relationships. If you believe that you might have the potential to feel better or achieve more than you have, consider calling me for a consultation.
What sorts of things do you treat?
Typical issues addressed by treatment include anxiety, depression, sexual dysfunction, anger, stress, creative blocks, and low self-esteem. I also work with those who struggle with bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, schizophrenia, dissociative disorders, panic attacks, phobias, and borderline personality disorder.
What is the difference between psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness therapy, and other forms, and how do I know which one is right for me?
Each person has a unique psyche. In our work together, we will seek to find the treatment modality that will best help you to reach your goals. Some types of work focus on the unconscious mind, others more on behaviors and conscious processes. My personal viewpoint is that the form of therapy that will help you most effectively reach your personal goals is the right one. I am a Certified and Licensed Psychoanalyst, and my work draws upon a number of theoretical orientations. In my practice, the one thing they have in common is that what we do is talk, and nothing else. During our initial meeting I will be happy to discuss the variety of treatments available.
How much of my time will it take?
Sessions are generally once or twice per week. The duration of the treatment is at your discretion; sometimes I meet people for short-term therapy, and others have been working with me for a number of years.
Do you accept health insurance?
Yes. At this time I accept Blue Cross/Blue Shield (including Anthem BlueCross BlueShield, Empire BlueCross BlueShield, Essential Plan, Blue Access, and NY Medicaid), EmblemHealth, Cigna, and 1199SEIU insurance. I am also happy to help you seek Out-of-Network reimbursement from other carriers, including Medicare.
How much does it cost if my health insurance won't cover this ?
We will discuss your fee during our initial consultation. I try to work with you to set a fee that will permit you to continue treatment as long as needed.
Do I have to be in New York City, and do I have to come to your office?
No. I also conduct sessions by telephone, Zoom, WhatsApp, and Signal. Your insurance most likely will cover online or phone sessions.
Do you prescribe medications?
No, I do not. However, if there is a question as to whether or not medication might be helpful in your treatment, I will be happy to refer you to a psychiatrist who is a medical doctor. Many of the people I work with are on medications when they begin treatment. My feeling is that psychotherapy can be effective on its own and also as a part of a treatment plan that may include medications.