FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Answers to common questions about online therapy, insurance, session frequency, couples therapy, and getting started with Define Therapy NY.

Who do you typically work with?

I work primarily with adults navigating anxiety, overthinking, perfectionism, self-doubt, burnout, relationship challenges, life transitions, and stress related to professional, academic, or personal responsibilities.

Many of my clients are thoughtful, insightful, and highly capable individuals who often appear successful on the outside but feel overwhelmed, stuck, or exhausted internally.

How do I know if therapy is right for me?

You do not need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy.

Many people seek therapy because they find themselves repeating the same patterns, struggling with difficult emotions, experiencing relationship challenges, or feeling disconnected from the life they want to create. Therapy can provide a space to gain clarity, develop new perspectives, and create meaningful change.

What if I am already self-aware?

Many of my clients are highly self-aware and have spent years reading, reflecting, journaling, or trying to understand themselves.

Insight is important, but understanding a pattern and changing a pattern are often two different things. Therapy can help bridge the gap between awareness and action by identifying the beliefs, behaviors, and emotional responses that may be keeping you stuck.

What is RE-CBT?

Rational Emotive Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (RE-CBT) is an evidence-based approach that focuses on identifying and challenging rigid, unhelpful beliefs that contribute to emotional distress.

RE-CBT helps individuals develop more flexible, balanced ways of thinking while building emotional resilience and healthier responses to life’s challenges.

I am a Certified RE-CBT Psychotherapist through the Albert Ellis Institute in New York.

Do you only use RE-CBT and CBT?

No.

While my work is grounded in RE-CBT and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I take an integrative approach to treatment.

I draw from multiple therapeutic perspectives and tailor therapy to each individual’s needs, goals, personality, and life circumstances. My approach is informed not only by more than 13 years of clinical experience, but also by my academic background and ongoing work as a university psychology professor.

I believe effective therapy should be evidence-based, practical, collaborative, and adaptable rather than limited to a single model or technique.

Why don’t you offer online self-scheduling?

I intentionally do not use an automated booking system.

Before scheduling an initial appointment, I prefer to exchange a few emails with prospective clients. This allows us to discuss your goals, answer questions, determine whether my approach may be a good fit, and identify a schedule that works well for both of us.

Because my availability can vary based on my teaching, clinical, and professional responsibilities, I manage my calendar personally rather than through a public scheduling platform.

My process is simple:

  1. Submit an inquiry.
  2. Exchange a brief email conversation.
  3. Determine whether we appear to be a good fit.
  4. Schedule an initial appointment and complete intake paperwork.

What happens during the first session?

The first session is an opportunity for us to get to know one another and begin understanding what brings you to therapy.

We will discuss your concerns, goals, relevant background information, and what you hope to gain from treatment. There is no expectation to have everything figured out before you begin.

The first session also allows us to determine whether working together feels like a good fit.

How often should I attend therapy?

The answer depends on your goals, needs, and circumstances.

Many clients begin with weekly sessions to establish momentum and consistency. Others may benefit from biweekly or extended-length sessions. Together, we will discuss a schedule that supports your goals while remaining realistic and sustainable.

Do you work with couples?

Yes.

I work with couples seeking to improve communication, strengthen emotional connection, navigate life transitions, address recurring conflicts, and develop healthier relationship patterns.

Have another question?

Reach out with a brief note about what you are looking for and any practical questions you would like answered before scheduling.