getting started and common questions

“The best way out is always through”
— Robert Frost

before we meet

Navigating the process of finding the right psychotherapist can be tricky and time consuming. I offer a free phone consultation. We will speak for about twenty minutes about the reasons why you would like to begin psychotherapy and the next steps that will be most helpful for you. You will then have the opportunity to schedule an initial office appointment that will usually take place within one week.

the initial consultation

During this stage, I try to understand your unique situation and how I can best help you. We will talk together about the best next steps to move you toward your goals. Research indicates that a “good fit” and a collaborative relationship between client and therapist is a significant factor in the effectiveness of therapy. I will also encourage you to ask any questions you have about psychotherapy or my approach. I find that these consultations can give us both a better sense of what it might be like to work together. The consultation period usually takes two to three sessions. At this point, we will then either schedule an ongoing weekly appointment or I will provide you with recommendations for other treatment options. It may very well be the case that there are other providers who may be better able to meet your needs and I am happy to help you connect with them.

FAQs

  • It is common to wonder how quickly you will feel better and how many sessions it will take. It is impossible to answer definitively because this depends on many factors including the complexity of your concerns, your motivations to engage in therapy, and your goals. Some problems can be resolved in five or six visits, while issues that are more complicated may involve longer term work lasting months or years. Others choose to incorporate therapy into their long-term strategy for resilience, self-care, and overall wellness even after their distress has subsided. I usually recommend beginning with weekly sessions, through periods of more intensive treatment may be recommended.  

  • I offer daytime appointments during the business week. However, my schedule changes regularly and availability can vary. Please contact me to see if we can find a mutually agreeable meeting time.  

  • You can leave a confidential voicemail at 202.600.9195. I check my voicemail several times per day on business days and at least once per day on weekends and holidays. I try to return calls within 24 hours or the next business day for calls left over the weekend. If you prefer, you can also contact me by email. However, as security and prompt delivery of email cannot be guaranteed, please do not include sensitive clinical information and never use email in an emergency.

  • Medication can be a useful adjunct to psychotherapy. Because I am a clinical psychologist and not a medical doctor, I cannot prescribe medication. If we determine that medication might be helpful for you, I will refer you to one of several psychiatrists with whom I work closely. Throughout your treatment, your psychiatrist and I will communicate regularly to ensure that you are receiving the best possible care.

  • I will discuss the fee during the initial phone consultation. Payment is due at the time of service. Each month, I will provide you with a bill detailing the services provided and total amount paid. If you have any questions about payment and the fee, please feel free to ask questions during our initial call.  

  • Many clients who work with me use their insurance benefits. Like most psychotherapists in private practice in this area, I am not paneled with any insurance companies, thus, I am considered an out-of-network provider. Many plans, particularly PPOs, offer partial benefits for out-of-network services. If you plan on using out-of-network benefits, as a courtesy, I will provide you with the necessary documentation that you can submit directly for reimbursement. However, you are fully responsible for payment of fees. I recommend that you contact your insurance carrier and ask the following questions:

    Do I have mental health benefits?

    How much does my plan cover for an out-of-network provider in the 20036 zip code?

    Do I need pre-authorization to see a psychotherapist?

    Is teletherapy covered by my insurance?

    What is my deductible and has it been met?

    What documentation do I need to submit for reimbursement?  What does my therapist need to provide?

    How many sessions per calendar year does my plan cover?

    Do I need a referral from my primary care physician?

    I recommend that you contact your provider before starting therapy so that you are fully informed about this financial arrangement.