Is counseling or psychotherapy for me?

I think counseling and psychotherapy are one of the best things someone can do for themselves. We do know from science that psychotherapy helps emotional and mental health. Psychotherapy isn't always easy, but psychotherapy can be transformative. It can really help you get unstuck from pain or patterns that keep making you unhappy and help you make changes that allow you to experience more self-acceptance, confidence, and fulfilling relationships. Psychotherapy isn't usually a quick fix. There is often some very meaningful relief once you begin and that can provide the foundation to dig in and work toward long-term healing and change. Some issues can be worked through more quickly than others. Some issues take time. In either case, the goal is to help you gain insight and feel empowered to create the changes that are so important to you.

How does counseling work?

I like to work intensely with clients in order to make the best progress. This means we meet once per week, every week, until you meet your goals. Sessions are 45 minutes in length for individuals and 50 minutes for couples. 

What does therapy cost?

Individual sessions are $240 for 45 minutes.

Couples sessions are $325 for 50 minutes.

Group therapy is $95 per session, 90 minutes each. (see below for groups I offer)

You are entitled to a *Good Faith Estimate that will be provided after your initial consultation if you decide to schedule.

What kind of groups do you offer?

Therapy group for women with herpes.

Therapy group for women working on mental health, self-esteem, dating, relationships, and career. 

Can I use health insurance?

I am not in-network with any insurance plans. If your insurance plan provides out-of-network benefits, and you meet certain criteria, you may qualify to receive reimbursement for our sessions. If this applies to you, the fee is due at the time of the session, and I will provide you with a special receipt that contains details your insurance company will need about me and our work together. Clients submit this to their insurance and if you qualify to receive any reimbursement, insurance will usually send that to you directly. It is your responsibility to determine your plan's benefits.

Some questions you may want to consider asking your insurance company:

Do I have out-of-network mental health benefits?

What percentage of the fee is covered?

What is the deductible? And when does my plan renew, requiring me to pay the deductible again?

Are there any limitations (such as limit to number of sessions)?

Can you tell me a bit more about you?

I am passionate about helping clients who struggle with self-esteem, dating and relationships, and issues related to sexual health. I have specialized expertise in helping individuals diagnosed with genital herpes. I also have experience with depression, anxiety, faith based and spiritual concerns (particularly for those who come from a Christian background), alcohol and other substance use concerns, sexual assault, and HIV. I proudly serve and welcome individuals from the heterosexual, gay/bi, and transgender communities.

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York State (Lic. # 007138). I am also a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in California (Lic. #16249) and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida (#MH2296). I previously worked with the Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene providing psychotherapy in New York City's public STD clinics. I am also a certified holistic health coach, with over 12 years of experience working with individuals on healthier eating, improving body image, dating and relationship concerns, and aligning goals with personal values. I have provided training to physicians on brief counseling for individuals diagnosed with genital herpes. I have also provided wellness workshops for staff at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, Harlem Hospital, Lenox Hill Hospital, New York Law School, St. John's University, Latino Aids Commission, Broadway Dance Center, the NY State Department of Labor, and the New York Television Festival.

Do you offer virtual therapy?

The work I offer is primarily based in person. However, I do offer virtual therapy in special circumstances. Since many people who work with me are feeling depressed, anxious, ashamed, or are having trouble with relationships, I find that an in person experience is both more therapeutic and improves my ability to get to know and support you as a whole person. However, if patients who are working with me in person cannot attend their regular session in person due to illness or another conflict, we can arrange a virtual session in many cases. In addition, if patients who have previously worked with me in person have moved to a state I am licensed in (CA, FL, or another region of NY), in many cases I am able to continue our work virtually. I do accept a very limited number of patients from CA, FL, or areas of NY outside of NYC, if due to my specialized expertise, it appears that working virtually would outweigh the benefits of the person seeking therapy locally.

I'm interested in counseling. What do I do next?

The first step is to contact me for a complimentary 15-minute phone consultation. I will chat with you a bit about your concerns and what you would like to get out of counseling. We will determine together if it makes sense to schedule an appointment. If I'm not the right fit for you, I will try to help you find other resources. If you have questions before talking with me, you are welcome to email at melissa@myheartdances.com