Question 1

What is art therapy?

Accepted Answer

Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses the creative process of making art to help people express and understand their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. The focus of art therapy is not on the creation of ‘good’ art - it’s about the process and what we gain from the experience of creating, observing, and reflecting. Some things are difficult to express with words alone. Art allows the opportunity for thoughts and feelings to come out in an organic way. Art-making has also been proven to have cognitive benefits, meaning it’s good for your brain! When you make art, you're using both left and right hemispheres of your brain. This helps with problem solving, decision making, and shifting into a new perspective.

Question 2

Who is art therapy for?

Accepted Answer

Art therapy is used widely among all ages and in varying settings. It works for adults, teens, and children in all stages of life - whether they’re facing mental and physical health challenges or not. Art therapy is also used in treatment facilities, hospitals, schools, forensics, and professional development. It can be done in a group or individual capacity. You do not have to be an ‘artist’ to benefit from art therapy. You only have to be willing to engage in the process with the materials. It isn’t an art class, and we’re not trying to create a masterpiece; we are just creating. There is no judgment of your artwork in art therapy.

Question 3

Who can work with you?

Accepted Answer

I work with adult clients solely in New York and Arizona.

Question 4

How long is a session?

Accepted Answer

Each session is 50 minutes long.

Question 5

What happens during the consultation

Accepted Answer

The 15 minute consultation is our time to meet (phone or video), discuss your unique situation, and identify how I may be able to help. By the end of the consultation, we’ll have determined whether we are a good fit, and if so, scheduled our first session. Click ‘here’ to book a consultation.

Question 6

Do I need to prepare for the first session?

Accepted Answer

The first session is our intake session. Be prepared to answer a lot of questions. I’ll ask about your current situation, history, family structure, culture, interests, etc. We’ll also discuss goals for our time together.

Question 7

What happens during a session?

Accepted Answer

During a session, we’ll first check in and see where you are that day, emotionally, mentally, and physically. We’ll also discuss how you’ve used the tools between sessions and any action steps you committed to from the previous week. From there, we use a combination of talk and art-making as needed. At the end of each session, you’ll leave with an action plan to make specific steps towards your goals as well as a mindset goal for the week.

Question 8

Which methods do you use?

Accepted Answer

I pull from a wide range of methods, including but not limited to cognitive behavioral techniques, somatic approaches (breath work, body awareness), roleplay, guided imagery, image rehearsal, and exposure response prevention.

Question 9

How often should we meet?

Accepted Answer

We meet weekly for the first month and then determine your needs moving forward.

Question 10

Are our sessions confidential?

Accepted Answer

All sessions as strictly confidential as per HIPAA privacy law. We meet on a HIPAA compliant platform and from a private setting. Your information is safe and stays within the session.

Question 11

Can we work together virtually?

Accepted Answer

Yes! I exclusively work with my clients virtually. Virtual sessions add convenience and flexibility to the process. With the ability to attend sessions from anywhere using your computer or mobile device, you can maintain your therapy routine even if you're traveling or have mobility limitations. Plus, you can engage in art therapy and creative expression from the comfort of your own space, without worrying about transportation or office visits.

Question 12

How many sessions do I need?

Accepted Answer

Typically, I work with my clients over a period of time that spans anywhere from three months to a year, depending on their individual needs and goals.

While everyone’s journey is different, by the end of the first month, most of my clients experience a significant decrease in symptoms of anxiety and depression, goals are clearly established, and we have already started taking action towards progress.

By the third month, we tend to have defined the client's core values, gained clarity on exactly what emotional barriers are keeping them “stuck”, cultivated tools to manage anxiety and depression, and explored a holistic perspective to their life, career, and personal goals.

The journey from there varies for everyone, depending on individual goals and circumstances. We’ll know that you’re ready to move on from our work together when you’ve gained the ability to navigate situations independently using the tools we built.

Question 13

Do you take insurance? What forms of payment are accepted?

Accepted Answer

I do not participate in any insurance plans, but I will provide you with an invoice containing all the necessary codes and information needed so that you can submit to your insurance company directly.

Private pay ensures full privacy and flexibility of your process. Insurance companies dictate the frequency, duration and focus of sessions, and require a diagnosis. This makes our process more organic and easy.

I use a HIPAA compliant payment app that accepts all major debit and credit cards.

Question 14

What are your rates?

Accepted Answer

Individual sessions (either 1:1 or parent sessions) are $250 each for 50 minutes. I typically work with clients on a package basis to ensure accountability and commitment, which also allows for a discount in fee. Package pricing is as follows:

1 Month package – 4 sessions - $900
2 Month Package – 8 sessions - $1700
3 Month Package – 12 sessions - $2500

Question 15

What if I have to cancel or reschedule a session?

Accepted Answer

Unexpected circumstances happen! I require a 48 hour notice for all cancellations or reschedules. Scheduling changes that happen with less than 48 hours’ notice are subject to a cancellation fee.

Question 16

How can I prepare for my session? What supplies do I need?

Accepted Answer

In order to get the most out of our time together, find a quiet and private space to join the session. Bring a notebook and sketchbook dedicated to our work, and basic drawing supplies (pens, pencils, colored pencils, crayons, markers). We can discuss involving other materials related to your interest (i.e. paint, sculpture, collage).

Question 17

I want to do a parent session. How do we get them to participate?

Accepted Answer

We’ll discuss your goals for involving your parent or loved one in your journey. From there, we can explore options for approaching them with the idea, and ultimately having them join the therapy process. With your permission, I can reach out to your family member to invite them to participate. Keep in mind, not everyone is ready for the kind of work you have committed to, some parents/loved ones may decline the invitation, and we respect their decision.

Question 18

Do you provide emergency services?

Accepted Answer

No, I do not provide crisis or emergency services. If you are experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or your local crisis hotline. If you or a loved one is feeling suicidal, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK or text HOME to 741741. Both services offer free, 24/7 crisis support in the US.

Question 19

What kind of issues do you help with?

Accepted Answer

I help with a wide range of issues, including but not limited to depression, decision making, relationship issues, identity and self discovery, life transitions, and communication skills.

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