The Free Consultation, Online Sessions, and Costs
Reaching out to a new therapist can feel like a big step, especially if you've tried therapy before and it didn't help. Here's what happens before we start working together, so you know what to expect.
The free 15-minute consultation
Every new client starts with a free 15-minute call. It's a chance for both of us to see whether I'm the right fit before you commit to anything.
To set one up, fill out the form on my Contact page or email office@starpsychologicalservices.com. I'll reply within two business days with my current availability and a few times for a call. Please don't include personal health details in the form or your email. We'll talk about what's going on during the call itself.
On the call, we'll talk through what's going on and whether I'm the right person to help. You don't need a diagnosis first, and you don't need to have it all figured out. If I'm not the right fit, I'll tell you.
If you aren’t sure what to talk about or what to ask, I am happy to lead the the consultation call.
Online therapy across state lines
All sessions are held over secure video, from wherever you're comfortable. I'm licensed in Florida, Iowa, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York. I'm also authorized to provide telepsychology through PSYPACT, an agreement between participating states that allows me to work with clients in those states.
What matters is where you're physically located at the time of each session, not where you live. You must be in a state where I'm authorized to practice for every session, so if you're going to be traveling, let me know ahead of time. You can see the full list of states on my homepage, and the current list of PSYPACT states on the official PSYPACT map.
Sessions
Sessions are 45 or 60 minutes. Most clients meet weekly, usually at a regular time. How long treatment takes depends on what you're working on and what you want to get out of it. Some people come for a focused stretch of work, and others stay longer. We'll check in regularly on how it's going.
Insurance and costs
I'm an out-of-network provider, which means I don't bill insurance directly. I provide superbills, detailed receipts you can submit to your insurer for possible reimbursement. Before we start, it's worth asking your insurer about your out-of-network mental health coverage.
You'll find my current fees on my Contact page.
Want to talk about whether this fits what you're dealing with? Request a free 15-minute consultation.
This article is general information, not medical advice, and reading it doesn't create a therapist-client relationship. If you're in crisis, call or text 988, or call 911.
