FAQ
General Questions
Where will we meet?
How long is a typical session?
How often will we meet?
The frequency of our sessions varies between patients. Typically, I see patients once per week; however, I see some patients twice per week for a deeper experience.
If we schedule more than one session per week, it is most beneficial to schedule sessions every other day.
How do I get started?
Call me at (914) 424-6511 or email me at alison@kindredspiritpsya.com. We will set up a day/time to have a quick, free 15-minute initial phone consultation.
What is a free initial consultation?
How do I pay?
Do you accept insurance?
I do not bill your insurance directly, so I am considered out-of-network. I would be happy to provide you with a monthly bill after your payment is processed to submit to your insurance company if you have out-of-network benefits.
Suppose you have an insurance plan that allows you to use a health savings account to pay for therapy. In that case, I recommend that you look at your specific insurance information and discuss with a benefits specialist at your place of employment or with your insurance company.
How does the monthly bill work?
The monthly bill has all the codes on it that your insurance company will need. Give them a quick call to ask what percentage they REIMBURSE (not cover!) for out-of-network counseling benefits. Ask them where you can forward your monthly bill to obtain reimbursement.
Please remember that it is very plan-specific (not company-specific) how much you can get reimbursed. It is your responsibility to call your insurance company.
How do I make an appointment?
To schedule your free, 15-minute initial phone consultation, call or email me today!
At the end of the call, we will schedule your first session if we feel we are a good fit to work together.
Next, at the end of each full session, we will schedule your next appointment preferably on the same/day and time of the week for the sake of consistency. Of course, situations may arise, and scheduling is subject to change.
What is your cancellation policy?
My cancellation policy requires cancellation or rescheduling at least 24 hours (preferably 48 hours) in advance. Otherwise, you will be subject to a charge.
Acceptable modes of cancellation include email, phone calls, voicemail messages, or text messages. Providing notice of cancellation or the need to reschedule allows me to help someone else in your absence.
Psychotherapeutic/Psychoanalytic Patient
Who is your perfect client?
What can I expect in the first session?
How long will I work with you?
I always tell my patients there is no quick fix in therapy. We will work together for as long as we need to ensure that you feel better. The length of time we meet is something that we will discuss together as the process unfolds because this varies for each patient.
Our work’s duration varies depending on the patient’s personality and willingness and time to engage in the process while tackling specific issues that brought you to therapy. There is no prescription or ‘magic pill’ for how long it takes for any one person to feel better.
What if I get upset?
It’s normal to be upset and cry in therapy. Crying is often cathartic, helping patients release pent up anxiety and eliminate the stress that keeps them stuck. I offer’ virtual tissues!’
Do I have to tell you everything?
Feel free to tell me as much as you want to say in your own good time. If you don’t tell your therapist what’s going on with you, you are not truthful to yourself or the process.
Bring it on – our relationship embraces everything! My most successful patients are the ones who are willing to share with me fully. The therapeutic relationship is a special one – one that you experience with no other person – it’s unique.
Ideally, therapy feels different than any other relationship as you explore the most vulnerable parts of yourself while at the same time being supported and heard.
Who benefits from psychotherapy/psychoanalysis?
What else can I do to try to help myself?
How do I know if you are the right therapist for me?
You will have an idea of whether we are a good fit during our initial consultation. I would give the process at least 4-6 sessions to get a good feel for me, my approach, and how we work together.
Ultimately, this will take some time. One of the ways to know is if you feel committed to the process and are willing to ‘show up’ physically and emotionally each week. Then, I will continue to check in with you to see how you feel about our work together.
What is the difference between psychotherapy and psychoanalysis?
Psychoanalysis uses verbal and non-verbal communications to uncover the unconscious blocks that may be affecting an individual’s behavior and personality. Psychoanalysts treat a range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, phobias, and other conditions.