Purvin Counseling Services logo with green leaf emblem and text "Healing starts with the right support."

Getting Started

1. What services do you offer?

I provide individual psychotherapy for adults dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, relationship issues, and more. My approach is integrative and tailored to your specific needs.

2. Do you offer free consultations?

Yes! I offer a complimentary 15-minute phone consultation to answer your questions, discuss any concerns, and determine if I’m the right fit for your needs.

3. How do I schedule an appointment?

You can get in touch with me by email, phone, text, or by simply filling out the contact form on my website.

4. Do you offer in-person or virtual sessions?

I currently provide teletherapy for clients in New York State via a secure video platform. I do not offer in-person services at this time.

5. What can I expect in the first session?

Your first session will be a structured intake evaluation, where we’ll review your history, assess current symptoms, and discuss your concerns and goals for therapy together. This helps us develop a personalized plan tailored to your needs.

6. How do I know if therapy is right for me?

Therapy can be beneficial if you’re feeling stuck, experiencing emotional distress, or facing challenges in your life. It offers a supportive space to work through difficult emotions and develop healthier coping strategies to improve your overall well-being.

7. How long does therapy take?

The duration of therapy varies from person to person. Some clients make progress in a few months, while others benefit from longer-term support. We will work together to find a pace that works best for you.

Scheduling & Session Details

8. How often do we meet?

Most clients begin with weekly sessions, but we can adjust the frequency based on your needs and progress.

9. How long is a therapy session?

My standard sessions are typically 50-55 minutes long.

10. What if I don’t know what to talk about in therapy?

That’s completely normal! Part of my role is to help guide the conversation. Some sessions may be structured, while others may focus on what feels most important to you in the moment.

11. How will I know when it’s time to end therapy?

I’ll regularly check-in with you on your progress. You might be ready to end therapy when:

• You’ve achieved your goals.

• You feel more confident in managing challenges.

• You no longer feel the need for sessions as frequently.

You’re free to pause therapy whenever you like, and we can discuss a plan for resuming whenever you feel ready.

Fees & Insurance

12. How much do sessions cost?

Fees depend on the session length and type of service. The standard rate is $250 for the initial intake session and $200 for ongoing sessions. Please contact me for further details about my fees.

13. Do you accept insurance?

I am in-network with Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield (formerly Empire), Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, Carelon Behavioral Health, Cigna, Oscar, Oxford, Quest Behavioral Health, and United Healthcare. My insurance network is expanding, so feel free to check for updates.

14. Do you offer sliding scale fees?

I offer a limited number of sliding scale spots for clients with financial need. Please contact me for availability.

15. How do I pay for sessions?

I accept credit cards and other electronic payment methods. Payment is due at the time of the session.

Policies & Confidentiality

16. What is your cancellation policy?

I ask for at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule. Cancellations made with less than 24 hours’ notice may be subject to a $100 fee.

17. Is therapy confidential?

Yes, therapy is completely confidential. However, there are a few legal exceptions, including:

• If there’s a risk of harm to yourself or others.

• If there’s suspected abuse of a child, elderly person, or vulnerable adult.

• If required by court order.

18. Can I text or email you between sessions?

For scheduling and administrative purposes, you can email or text me. To maintain confidentiality and support boundaries, therapy-related conversations should take place during our sessions.

19.  Do you provide documentation for FMLA, disability claims, emotional support animals, or other similar requests?

No, I do not provide documentation for these types of requests. What I can provide is a treatment verification letter, confirming client participation in therapy, dates of service, frequency of sessions, and diagnosis. For more information, please feel free to contact me.

Teletherapy

20. How does teletherapy work?

Teletherapy is conducted through a secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform. Before your session, you’ll receive a link to join the meeting from your computer, tablet, or phone.

21. What do I need for a teletherapy session?

To get the most out of your session, make sure you have access to:

• A private, quiet space.

• A stable internet connection.

• A device with a camera and microphone.

• Headphones (recommended for added privacy).

Frequently Asked Questions

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