Frequently Asked Questions

What is online therapy?

Online therapy is psychotherapy that occurs through secure video chat rather than in an office. One great thing about this mode of therapy is that you can receive the same benefits of face-to-face therapy while staying in the comfort of your home. No need to go out in the cold or struggle to find parking!

Is online therapy for me?

Just like for in-person therapy, there are some factors that indicate that it might be a good fit for you and others that suggest that it might not be. If you have good internet (e.g. can usually stream videos without problems), can find a private place to meet, and can use technology well enough to do things like send emails and watch videos, then you likely have the technological capabilities for online therapy. There are also some things that people come to treatment for that are better suited for in-person therapy. If we find out that this is the case for you, I can do my best to help you locate an in-person therapist that fits your needs.

How is privacy ensured?

I use video software that is HIPAA-compliant, so it is highly secure and encrypted. In order to increase privacy, I also require both of us to be in a private location with no others in the room while we have our sessions.

What kind of equipment do I need?

All you need is secure internet and a computer with a microphone and webcam. Most computers have these features built-in.

Where are you located?

I am able to see clients online throughout the state of MA, but I do not have a physical office location where I see clients.

What types of therapy do you offer?

My psychotherapy style tends to be a combination of psychodynamic approaches (talking about emotions and working through difficult experiences using traditional "talk therapy" type techniques) and cognitive-behavioral approaches (looking at the relationship between emotions, behaviors, and thoughts, and how influencing one can make us feel better or worse emotionally). I also incorporate concepts from Internal Family Systems (IFS) into my work. Recently, I have started to incorporate Flash into my work, particularly with clients who have experienced past trauma. I use more of one approach or another depending on the client's preference and what we find seems to be the most helpful for them.

Who do you work with?

I work with clients aged 14 and older (sometimes those a bit younger than 14 on a case-by-case basis). I have experience working with clients age 5 to seventy five, but specialize in working with teenagers and young adults, particularly those with anxiety and/or depression.

How often will we meet?

When we first start meeting, it is likely that we will meet once weekly. Occasionally, we might decide that less frequently makes sense, but this is usually reserved for when you are doing well and are working to maintain your progress. When you are trying to make progress on goals I find that it is most effective to meet weekly.

How long does therapy take?

That is a good question, and one that can be difficult to answer. It depends on what you are seeking help for and what your goals are. For some people, therapy can take just a few months, while others choose to stay for multiple years. And of course there is a lot of variation in between.

Do you accept insurance?

I am in-network with BCBS, Harvard Pilgrim, and Aetna. I can also accept out-of-network plans, if your plan offers this benefit. Please click here for more information on insurance and fees.

Do you have a sliding scale?

Yes, I do have a limited sliding scale for those who are not using insurance and are doing self-pay.  Please click here.

What forms of payment do you accept?

I am able to accept payment via credit card conveniently from the client portal using a secure service called Stripe. I charge your credit card for session fees immediately after each session.

What if I can't afford your fee?

First, let's make sure that's true.  I have a few different ways that session fees that can be covered.  If you want to use your insurance and I am in-network with your plan, that will cover most of my fee (except for copays and deductibles).  If I'm not in-network with your plan but you still want to use your insurance, check with them about out-of-network benefits (I have a handout with questions you can ask; feel free to ask for one).  I also offer self-pay and have a limited sliding scale.  For more information on all of these options, please click here.

If you do determine that you cannot afford therapy with me, I can give you tips on how to find a therapist that better suits your needs.  I also invite you to explore the blog section of my website, which contains articles and self-help tips on various topics.

Is there meaning behind the lotus imagery on your website, business cards, etc.?

Yes! I have been inspired by the image of the lotus since I was a teenager. Lotuses grow by pushing their way up through muddy waters. Rather than being smothered by the mud, they break through the surface to bloom and become beautiful flowers. I find this an inspiring symbol for strength and perseverance in getting through difficulties, and for therapy as well.

How can I contact you for more information?

Click here to be taken to my "Contact Me" page.

If you have further questions or to explore working with me, please click here.