FAQS

Questions about what it’s like to work together?

Here are answers to some of the most common questions we receive from prospective clients.

If you don’t see your question answered below, please contact us.

Online Therapy

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  • Insurance coverage for online therapy can vary widely depending on your provider and plan. Many insurance companies now offer coverage for telehealth services, including online therapy, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted its importance. To determine if your insurance plan covers online therapy, check with your insurance provider directly or review your policy details. Be sure to inquire about any specific requirements or limitations that may apply.

  • Yes, we accept BCBS, Cigna, and Aetna insurance. If you would like to work with us, but we do not accept your insurance, we can also provide you with superbills to submit to your insurance for possible reimbursement.

  • Individual Therapy: $200 per 55-minute session

    Therapy for Parents: $250 per 55-minute session

    Couples Therapy: $250 per 55-minute session

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    For fees specific to our coaching programming, please visit the FAQs pages below:

    Self-Love & Relationship Coaching

    Mindfulness Coaching

    Parent Coaching

    Lifestyle & Physical Health Coaching takes many forms and pricing is dependent upon your needs and goals. Contact us to discuss the full range of what we offer and how we can help.

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    In an effort to widen accessibility to quality mental health and wellness services, a portion of each full rate fee goes toward funding services on a sliding scale basis for those who do not have the financial ability to pay full out-of-pocket costs.

    By investing in your own healing, you are helping to heal someone else.

    Please inquire within for sliding scale availability.

    *Proof of household income is required for all sliding scale clients.

  • You can pay for your sessions through our secure online payment system. We accept various payment methods, including credit cards and digital payment options. Payment details are provided at the time of booking.

Choosing a Therapist

  • Yes, we want you to have a therapist with whom you feel comfortable and supported. For this reason, you are fully entitled to change therapists if needed. It’s important for your therapeutic journey that you work with someone who aligns well with your personality and therapeutic goals. If you’d like to change therapists, it is recommended that you discuss your decision with your current therapist first, if possible, to ensure a smooth transition and continue your path to personal growth effectively. If that isn’t possible, please feel free to contact our main office at: 718.540.5024 or via email: [email protected] customer service department for assistance.

  • Yes, you can choose a therapist based on their specialties, qualifications, and sometimes even availability. This allows you to find a therapist who best meets your specific needs and preferences.

  • Yes, you can get a second opinion from another therapist. Simply contact our support team to request a referral or to schedule a session with a different therapist. Your comfort and confidence in your therapy are our priorities.

  • Yes, we offer free consultations. Contact us to schedule a complimentary session to discuss your needs and how we can help.

  • If you feel therapy isn’t helping, discuss your concerns with your therapist. They can adjust your treatment plan or suggest different approaches. You can also consider seeking a second opinion from another therapist. Your progress and well-being are our top priorities.

  • Our therapists are highly qualified professionals with advanced degrees in psychology, counseling, or social work. They hold licenses from relevant state or national regulatory bodies, ensuring they meet rigorous standards for practice. Additionally, many of our therapists have specialized training in areas such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma, and anxiety management. They also engage in ongoing education to stay current with the latest therapeutic techniques and best practices.

  • We use advanced encryption and comply with privacy laws to protect your personal information. Authorized personnel only have access, and we regularly update security protocols. Your privacy is our priority.

  • Everything you share with your therapist or coach stays between you — unless where there are concerns for safety involved.

    Everyone deserves to be safe and feel safe and we want to do what we can to ensure safety across the board. For that reason, your therapist or coach will have to tell someone if any of the following comes to light:

    You have thoughts of hurting yourself, someone else, or someone is hurting you.

    *We require all of our clients to provide us with two (up to three) emergency contacts that live in relatively close proximity.

  • Our online therapy sessions are not recorded to maintain confidentiality and privacy. Our therapists prioritize client trust and adhere to ethical guidelines, ensuring that what is discussed remains private.

Scheduling & Technical Support

  • Yes, you can pause your recurring therapy session schedule. We offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate your needs. Contact your therapist to discuss pausing your sessions and to understand any potential impacts on your treatment plan or billing. This will ensure a smooth process and help maintain the continuity of your care.

  • To cancel a scheduled therapy session, contact your therapist and let them know which session(s) you wish to cancel. Please be aware of our cancellation policy, which requires notice at least 24 hours in advance to avoid any cancellation fees. For further assistance, you may contact our support team directly through the contact options provided on our website.

  • If you miss a session, notify your therapist as soon as possible. Our therapists offer flexible rescheduling options. Check our cancellation policy for details and communicate with your therapist to find a suitable time.

  • If you need to change your session time, please contact your therapist directly or use our online scheduling system. We offer flexible rescheduling options to accommodate your needs.

  • The duration of therapy can vary widely depending on individual needs and goals. Short-term therapy may last a few weeks to a few months and is often directed at addressing specific issues. In contrast, long-term therapy might extend over several months or even years, particularly for more complex or deep-seated concerns. The length of therapy ultimately depends on the personal progress and the specifics of the treatment plan agreed upon with your therapist.

  • To contact customer support, visit our website and click on the “Request Info” link. You can also reach us via email at: [email protected] or phone 718-540-5024. Our team is available to assist you with any questions or concerns.

  • Yes, you can use your phone for therapy sessions. Just ensure you have a stable internet connection and a private, quiet space. For the most productive session, we recommend you join via our secure video conferencing platform.

  • Inform your therapist immediately if you have technical difficulties during a session. They can help troubleshoot the issue or reschedule the session. Your therapist will work with you to ensure minimal disruption to your therapy.

  • Yes, you can see the same therapist if you decide to return after a break. When you return, simply request to resume sessions with your previous therapist.

  • No, there is no limit to the number of sessions you can have. You and your therapist will determine the number and frequency of sessions based on your individual needs and progress.

Additional Resources & Crisis Support

  • If you need urgent help outside of session hours, please contact emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room. For non-emergency situations, you can contact crisis hotlines or use our platform’s messaging feature to leave a message for your therapist, who will respond as soon as possible. Your safety is our priority.

  • It is important to note that while our therapists offer flexible scheduling, we do not have 24/7 care. We have specific protocols to address urgent needs if you are in a crisis while engaging with our online therapy services. To start, we will guide you to immediately contact local emergency services or a dedicated crisis hotline if you are at risk of harm or require immediate assistance. Additionally, we may offer resources such as contact information for crisis centers or emergency hotlines and may also advise on steps to take until help arrives. 

  • Yes, we offer various additional resources to support your therapy, including self-help guides, worksheets, online workshops, and free meditation classes, as well as access to a library of articles and videos. Your therapist can recommend specific resources tailored to your needs.

  • Yes, we offer group therapy options as much as we offer sessions with your spouse, partner, or family members. You may coordinate with your therapist for more details.

General Questions About Therapy

  • At The Collective Therapy & Wellness, clients have the ability to combine therapy with wellness practices in the form of individualized coaching services — transforming their healing beyond traditional talk therapy into lived, tangible, experiences.

    We believe that true healing and transformation can only take place when all the aspects of who you are and how you function are brought into unison. For that reason, we combine therapy and wellness in order to effectively tailor healing to reach your body, mind, and spirit.

    Our coaching programs are conducted by trained wellness practitioners and are informed and backed by therapists, many of whom are registered yoga teachers, or who regularly practice wellness themselves. Moreover, we each live these wellness practices in our personal lives, which allows our passion and authenticity to shine through the work that we are doing.

    When you choose to work with our therapists, you are getting quality mental health care that is personalized to you. We keep our caseloads smaller so that we can form close, impactful, relationships with our clients and be fully emotionally present, in order to deeply connect with how you are feeling during your time of need.

  • You might benefit from therapy if you’re struggling with emotional or mental health issues, experiencing stress or anxiety, having difficulty coping with life changes, or feeling stuck. Therapy can provide support, strategies, and a safe space to discuss your concerns. If you’re unsure, consider scheduling a consultation to discuss your situation with one of our professionals.

  • Continuing therapy can provide numerous benefits that contribute to long-term well-being and personal growth. Engaging in ongoing therapy helps maintain your progress and supports the development of new coping strategies. It offers a safe space to navigate life’s ups and downs, ensuring you have consistent support during challenging times. Regular sessions deepen self-awareness and understanding, fostering personal development and healthier relationships. Additionally, therapy can be adaptive, addressing new issues as they arise and preventing minor challenges from becoming more severe. By continuing therapy, you invest in your mental health stability and overall quality of life, enhancing your ability to manage stress and emotional well-being.

  • A therapist is a trained professional who assists individuals, couples, or groups in understanding and resolving psychological and emotional challenges. Through dialogue, analysis, and evidence-based therapeutic techniques, a therapist helps clients identify underlying problems, develop coping strategies, and enhance their overall mental health and well-being. Depending on the client’s needs and the therapist’s specialization, this support can be provided in various formats, including online therapy.

Treatment Plans

  • If you have multiple issues to address, your therapist will work with you to prioritize and create a comprehensive treatment plan. This plan will address each issue over time, ensuring you receive the support and strategies needed for all your concerns.

  • We offer a variety of therapeutic modalities to cater to different needs. These include:

    1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Focuses on modifying dysfunctional emotions, behaviors, and thoughts by interrogating and uprooting negative or irrational beliefs.

    2. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): A form of CBT that combines standard cognitive-behavioral techniques for emotion regulation and reality-testing with concepts of distress tolerance, acceptance, and mindful awareness.

    3. Psychodynamic Therapy: Explores past influences and unresolved conflicts as they manifest in current behaviors and emotions, aiming to increase self-awareness and understanding of the influence of the past on present behavior.

    4. Humanistic Therapy: Emphasizes people’s capacity to make rational choices and develop to their maximum potential. Concerned with understanding subjective human experiences.

    5. Couples Therapy: Aims to improve romantic relationships and resolve interpersonal conflicts.

     

    Each of these therapies is well adapted to the online format, ensuring flexibility and accessibility for clients, with sessions conducted via video.

  • If you feel worse after a session, it’s important to communicate this to your therapist. They can help address your concerns and adjust your treatment plan as needed. Remember, experiencing strong emotions can be a part of the healing process.

  • Measuring the effectiveness of therapy involves observing changes in your mental and emotional well-being over time. Signs that therapy is working include feeling more in control of your emotions, improved relationships, greater self-awareness, and progress toward your therapy goals. It is important to discuss these observations with your therapist to ensure you’re on track and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

Medication & Comprehensive Care

  • No, only licensed healthcare providers, such as psychiatrists or psychiatric nurse practitioners, can prescribe medication. These professionals conduct thorough assessments and consultations to evaluate your symptoms, medical history, and overall health to determine the appropriate medication and dosage. If medication is likely to be an integrated element of your treatment plan, your therapist will work with your existing healthcare provider or recommend one for a consultation.

  • Yes, our online therapists will collaborate with your healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive care. With your consent, they can share relevant health information, treatment plans, and progress updates. This coordination helps optimize your overall treatment and ensures all aspects of your health are addressed.

Location, Language & Travel

  • Yes, you can continue your therapy sessions while traveling, provided you have a stable internet connection and a private space for your appointments. Online therapy offers the flexibility to connect with your therapist from anywhere, making it convenient for those with dynamic lifestyles or travel commitments. Always ensure that your destination has adequate connectivity and privacy to maintain the quality and confidentiality of your sessions.

  • At this time, our services are available in English only.

  • Yes, online therapy is effective for many people. Research indicates that it can be as beneficial as in-person therapy for a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, and stress. Online therapy offers flexibility, accessibility, and the convenience of receiving support from home. However, its effectiveness can depend on factors like the quality of the platform used, the therapeutic relationship, and individual needs.

  • During online therapy sessions, you can expect confidential and structured discussions with a licensed therapist via secure video calls. Sessions typically follow a predetermined schedule and focus on addressing your concerns, exploring emotions, and developing coping strategies tailored to your needs. Therapists may incorporate various therapeutic techniques, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or mindfulness practices to help you achieve your mental health goals effectively.

  • Finding the best online therapy for your needs involves a few key steps:

    1. Identify Your Goals: Clarify what you hope to achieve from therapy, such as managing anxiety, improving relationships, or addressing specific mental health concerns.

    2. Check Credentials: Ensure the therapists are licensed and have relevant experience. 

    3. Evaluate Specializations: Match therapists’ specializations with your needs. For example, if you’re dealing with trauma, seek a therapist with experience in trauma-informed care.

    4. Assess Compatibility: Choose a therapist that fits your preferred communication style and schedule flexibility.

    5. Consider Reviews and Ratings: Read reviews from other clients to gauge the effectiveness and reliability of the therapy services.

    6. Verify Security Measures: Ensure the platform uses secure, HIPAA-compliant technology to protect your privacy.

  • Online therapy has gained popularity over in-person therapy due to several key advantages. It offers greater accessibility, allowing individuals to receive support from any location, which is particularly beneficial for those with mobility issues or those residing in remote areas. Additionally, online therapy provides greater flexibility with scheduling, accommodating busy lifestyles and varied time zones. The convenience of attending sessions from home also eliminates the need for travel, saving time and reducing potential stress. Furthermore, online therapy can sometimes be more affordable, as it may involve lower overhead costs for therapists. These factors collectively contribute to its growing appeal.

  • Online therapy offers several advantages that enhance accessibility and flexibility for clients. Key features include:

    1. Accessibility: Clients can receive therapy from any location with an internet connection, eliminating the need for travel and making it easier to fit sessions into busy schedules.

    2. Flexibility: Many online therapy platforms offer a range of appointment times, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate various schedules.

    3. Convenience: Sessions can be conducted via video, phone, or chat, allowing clients to choose the mode of communication that best suits their preferences.

    4. Privacy: Online therapy provides a discreet option for individuals who may feel uncomfortable with traditional in-person sessions or who seek to maintain confidentiality.

  • To prepare for your first online therapy session, find a quiet, private space where you won’t be interrupted. Ensure you have a stable internet connection and a device with a working camera and microphone. Think about your goals for therapy and any specific issues you want to discuss. A notepad can also be useful for jotting down thoughts or questions during the session.

  • Yes, online therapy is effective for treating anxiety and depression. Our therapists use proven techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to help you manage and overcome these issues.

  • Online therapy is convenient and easy to use. Sessions are conducted via phone or video through our secure and HIPPA compliant portal.

    Online therapy requires all clients be physically located in the state where their therapist currently holds an active license.

    Currently, The Collective Therapy & Wellness LLC has licensed therapists in multiple states and can provide therapy to clients located in New York, New Jersey, Missouri, and Texas.

    In time, we plan on expanding our team and licenses across more states.

    *We require all of our clients to submit proof of identification and address prior to beginning therapy.

  • With the right therapist or coach, virtual work can offer the same sense of connection that in-person services would provide.

    Some people prefer using a virtual platform for therapy or coaching due to the convenience and ease it provides. No worrying about traffic or whether or not you’ll be able to find a sitter. Stay home or have your session during your lunch break. Virtual therapy and coaching allow you to prioritize your mental health and wellness because it can seamlessly fit into your daily life.

    Also, using a virtual platform can actually allow for more introspection and self-reflection due to the level of comfort it provides. Imagine having tough conversations or participating in challenging activities while you’re in your pajamas on your couch, sipping coffee from your favorite mug, with your pet laying next to you. Likewise, some people prefer to have therapy over the phone so they don’t have to look at someone while they talk about hard things.

    Whichever you choose, there is no right or wrong — just what is best for you.

  • If you are located in one of the four states where we have licensed therapists (NJ, NY, MO, TX), have a strong internet connection (or phone reception), and privacy wherever you are located during your appointment, then virtual therapy is a great option.

    Coaching services are not bound by state-licensure restrictions, which allows clients to work with their coach from anywhere in the world— a different state, or even a different country! As long as you have a strong internet connection, the physical location of you or your coach does not impact the capacity for continuity.

    However, virtual therapy and coaching is not right for everyone.

    If you have a significant history of suicide attempts or ideation, or require medication management for life-altering symptoms, in-person therapy with a practitioner local to you who can provide additional services may be a better fit.

    Please schedule a free 15-minute consultation to see if virtual therapy or coaching is right for you.

Insurance & Billing

Privacy & Security

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