FAQs

General FAQ

What type of therapy do you use?

I utilize a variety of counseling techniques from an eclectic collection of theoretical orientations based on the needs and strengths of the individual client. Frequently, I use cognitive behavioral, rational emotive, family systems, play therapy, and solution-focused approaches.

Why should I choose you as a therapist?

I have over fifteen years of experience as a counselor. I have extensive practice working with complex situations and challenges. I am open to new ideas and strategies regarding treatment. My goal with clients is to develop an individualized treatment plan that meets the client’s specific needs. I am down-to-earth, nonjudgmental, and empathetic.

What if it is determined that your services are not appropriate for me? 

If you or I decide that we are not a good fit, I can help you connect to the appropriate professional.

Are there specialties or populations that you do not provide counseling services for?

Counselors can not specialize in everything or serve all populations and do it well. These are the following specialties I do not provide services for: substance abuse and addiction, marriage counseling, anorexia and bulimia, and geriatrics.

Are you licensed? 

Yes, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of NJ.

Is therapy right for me?

Seeking out therapy for you or your child is an individual choice. There are many reasons why people come to therapy. Sometimes it is to deal with long-standing psychological issues, or problems with anxiety or depression. Other times it is in response to unexpected changes in one’s life such as divorce, work transition, or other situations that affect you and your family. Many seek the advice of a counselor as they pursue their own personal exploration and growth. Working with a counselor can help provide insight, support, and new strategies for all types of life challenges. Therapy can help address many types of issues including depression, anxiety, conflict, behavioral issues, stress management, loss, and general life transitions. Therapy is right for anyone who is interested in getting the most out of their life by taking responsibility, creating greater self-awareness, and being open to working towards change in their lives.

I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who do therapy weak? 

Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the ability to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. You already have some strengths that you’ve used before, and for whatever reason, they aren’t working right now. Perhaps this problem feels overwhelming and is making it difficult to assess your past strengths. In our work together, I’ll help you identify what those strengths are and how to implement them again in what is happening now.

How long will counseling take? 

Unfortunately, this is not possible to say on a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them. The length of time therapy can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek therapy in the first place.

I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?

 I am so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication are crucial to your success. After all, we only see each other for a session a week. It’s the work you do outside of our sessions that will really help you see your personal growth and development.

Do you offer in-office and online counseling? 

I currently, only offer online counseling/telehealth at this time. With the changes that occurred during and after the pandemic in 2020, I have decided to forgo in-person office visits. I find that my clients like the convenience of telehealth.

What are some benefits of counseling?

Some of the benefits of counseling include:

• Developing new skills for handling stress and anxiety
• Modifying unhealthy behavior and long-standing patterns
• Gaining insight into personal patterns and behaviors
• Looking at problems and solutions from another point of view or perspective 
• Increasing confidence, peace, and well-being 
• Improving ways to manage anger, depression, and mood 
• Discovering new ways to solve problems 
• Improving listening and communication skills
• Navigating life’s obstacles more effectively 
• Enhancing the overall quality of life

Is therapy confidential?

 In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and a licensed counselor. Information is not disclosed without written permission. HIPAA compliance is followed. However, there are a number of exceptions to this rule.

These exceptions include:

• Suspected child abuse or dependent adult abuse or elder abuse. The counselor is required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
• If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person/s. The counselor must notify the police and inform the intended victims
• If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The counselor will make every effort to enlist their cooperation in ensuring their safety. If they do not cooperate, further measures may be taken without their permission in order to ensure their safety.

What age groups do you work with?

Although I have years of experience working with children, I am currently only seeing clients who are 16 years of age and older.

Weight Loss Surgery Supportive Consulting FAQ

What is Weight Loss Surgery Supportive Consulting? How is Weight Loss Surgery support through consulting different from a support group?

My services are individualized and work around your schedule, unlike support groups which are group based and meet on a particular day and time. The programs I offer derive from the lack of information easily available to individuals about the emotional, physical, and psychological changes that occur as a result of weight loss surgery. The services I offer are much more individualized and offer one-on-one support and attention. It allows you to discuss the concerns that are directly impacting you and work on practical tools to help you.

How is Weight Loss Surgery Support Consulting different from a support group? 

The services I offer are individualized and works around your schedule, unlike support groups which are group based and meet on a particular day and time. Not all support groups are run by licensed therapists. Some clients prefer not to talk in a group. Supportive counseling is much more individualized and personal, and offers one-on-one support and attention. It allows you to discuss the concerns that are directly impacting you.

If you have any questions about counseling or services or individual concerns, please contact me.