Q. In general, how does psychotherapy work?

A. Psychotherapy is a process to facilitate personal growth and change. Discussing problems and understanding feelings can provide one with an awareness of various life options previously unrecognized. Psychotherapy involves discovering more effective methods for coping with challenging feelings, behaviors, relationships and many other of life's serious issues. Psychotherapy fosters and nurtures emotional growth and awareness.

Q. Every therapist is different. What's unique about your approach?

A. My approach is interactive and affirming while creating an atmosphere of safety and trust. I practice psychodynamic psychotherapy, a form of therapy that concentrates on discovering underlying sources of psychological and emotional distress. I incorporate cognitive and behavioral techniques that focus on restructuring counterproductive thoughts and behaviors. These strategies are designed to bring relief from current painful situations. I also work to expose the root causes of these and other possible issues to produce lasting change.

Q. What are the benefits and risks?

A. Psychotherapy can dramatically reduce feelings of distress, improve personal and professional lifestyles, and help one acquire effective coping skills. Some people, however, will feel uncomfortable emotions during the course of their treatment. These feelings can include sadness, anger, grief, anxiety, guilt, frustration, loneliness, and helplessness. Exploring unpleasant parts of one's life can cause unease but is essential for working through and resolving overwhelming experiences that impair relationships, derail careers, and lessen the overall enjoyment of life.

Q. How long does the process take?

A. Each individual is unique. I meet with a person at the outset to help determine the best course of treatment. Depending on the complexity of the problem, some people achieve greater wellness through short-term therapy. Others may require a longer treatment length. Session frequency can vary depending on a number of factors, including degree of need, availability, and finances.

Q. How is confidentiality protected?

A. Privacy and confidentiality are a top priority to me. All clinical material is strictly confidential, and all records are kept securely locked. In addition, no one is informed of who receives my counseling unless the person being treated specifically requests it in writing.

Q. Do you accept insurance?

A. I accept Aetna and BlueCross/BlueShield.

Q. How much does it cost?

A. If you are paying through one of the insurance plans I accept, you are responsible for your co pay. If you are paying through any other plan, my fee is $110 per session and you would be reimbursed by your insurance company based on your out-of-network coverage. I also offer a sliding scale when deemed necessary.

Q. What if medication is indicated?

A. Upon completion of a thorough evaluation, a determination is made in regards to the need for medication. If medication is indeed a valid means of furthering therapy, the person will be referred to a consulting psychopharmacologist.

Q. How can one reach out to you to start the therapeutic process?

A. To make an appointment, please call me anytime at telephone number (917) 576-1709, or contact me here.

For details about Courtney's clinical and educational background, click here.

For a complete listing of Courtney's service offerings, click here.

To see how Courtney addresses some common questions about her work, click here.

For directions to Courtney's office in Manhattan, click here.