Frequently Asked Questions for Mental Health Counseling in Westchester, NY

We purposely do not participate with any insurance companies. Doing so would require us to give you a mental disorder diagnosis and stays on your permanent health record. You shouldn't have to be labeled as having something "wrong" with you for needing a little support (which we ALL do!) Then, for them to continue paying for therapy, we would have to write treatment reports saying that you're still sick and not getting better. That's just not how we operate. We also believe that therapy should not be lifelong. We use the most effective, evidenced based treatment methods, so you can get better in the most efficient timeframe possible. For client who wish to use their OUT OF NETWORK benefits, we give you all the forms you need to submit to your insurance company to receive reimbursement. Not sure if you have out of network benefits? Call your insurance company, ask to speak to the behavioral health department, and then ask if you have out of network coverage. If so, you also want to know what your deductible is, and what amount they will reimburse you for a 90834 (the code that the insurance company needs). If you do have out of network coverage, session fees are expected to be paid at the time of your visit. You then will receive a monthly superbill at the end of the month that you will send to your insurance company. They will reimburse you directly.

Session rates for our specialists range from $245-350 per session. A standard session is typically 45 - 50 minutes. Length of sessions can be altered and are prorated for each 15 minute increment. These rates may be reimbursable by insurance companies if you have out of network benefits. Please call to verify this with your insurance company if you are planning to use this benefit. For more information on rates and insurance, click here.

A number of benefits are available from participating in therapy. Therapists can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping strategies for issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, grief, stress management, body image issues and creative blocks. Many people also find that counselors can be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, marriage issues, and the hassles of daily life. Therapists can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution. The benefits you obtain from therapy depend on how well you use the process and put into practice what you learn.

A standard psychotherapy session is 45 minutes. However, some clients like to schedule longer sessions if needed. A double session of 90 minutes can be scheduled upon request. 90 minute sessions are recommended for EMDR therapy.

We accept cash, check, FSA and other credit cards. If you are seeking reimbursement from your insurnace company, we can provide you with the necessary paperwork. On average, clients typically are reimbursed 60-80% of the session fee, once their deductible has been met.

Yes! EMDR can be done through online telehealth counseling sessions. We have been doing EMDR virtually for quite some time (before the COVID crisis), so we have all the tools and techniques to conduct EMDR therapy safetly and effectively by virtual means.

Sessions are still 100% confidential. We use a secure, HIPAA compliant system through SimplePractice to provide online accessibility to our clients. When you book a virtual session, the link for your appointment will be sent to you either via text or email (depending on your appointment reminder preferences) You can book a video session by going to our website and clicking the CLIENT PORTAL button in the right hand corner. From there, select NEW CLIENT if it’s your first time scheduling, or EXISTING CLIENT if we’ve worked together before. Then you can pick your therapist, and select VIDEO office, and the service you scheduling. You will be able to see our schedules and pick the time that works best for you. And then viola! you’re all set! What do you need for an online session? Headphones with a microphone. This helps you hear us better and ensures another layer of privacy. A quiet, private place. We want our session to be just like when you’re in the office. So a private place in your home ensures your confidentiality. A good internet connection. A computer with a webcam OR an apple or android device. If you’re using a mobile device, you can download the “telehealth” app. If you are using the app, just copy and paste your appointment link and you’ll be all set! Still have questions? Give us a call or email us! We’re happy to help! (914) 222-3983 / support@peacefullivingmhc.com Ready to get started? Click here to schedule your appointment!

Child therapy is intended to be solution-focused and short term. The goal is to help parents and children work together on the identified issue, monitor positive outcomes and transition out of therapy once goals are achieved. When working with a child, we always meets with the parent(s) individually for the first session. This is intended so that a comprehensive history of the identified issue can be discussed and treatment goals can be established. Parent sessions are then scheduled throughout the course of treatment to discuss progress toward the identified goals.

Yes! Your confidentialty is the single most important factor in sessions. Your privacy is of the utmost importance to us. If there is ever anything you would like us to disclose to someone, we would first have you sign a release form allowing us to do so.