FAQ

  • What should I expect?

    The idea of starting therapy can be intimidating, especially if it’s your first time. I want to put you at ease as much as possible. We’ll log on to our video call and we can talk about whatever you’d like. For the first session, I will have specific questions for you, and then in future sessions we can discuss anything that’s on your mind. I will offer some feedback and practical solutions for you based off of the goals we set together. Sessions are approximately 50 minutes long.

  • How does online therapy work?

    I utilize a HIPAA-complaint, user-friendly platform called Doxy. At the time of our sessions, go somewhere private with minimal interruptions and likelihood of being heard, go to doxy.me/nikkie, put in your name, and I will connect us. It’s that simple, no sign-ups or logins, and you can do it from any phone, tablet, or computer.

  • Can we meet in person?

    At this time, all appointments are strictly virtual on doxy.me/nikkie. Many people find virtual therapy a highly convenient alternative to combating traffic or finding a baby-sitter to make time for therapy. You can have a session right from the comfort of home (or work, your car, or even the great outdoors!)

  • How often do we meet?

    We have flexibility to discuss your unique needs and work together in creating plans for treatment. Typically, we start off meeting weekly. Some individuals then move to biweekly or once per month, but others choose to remain meeting on a weekly basis. I am often available to have additional sessions in times of greater stress or challenges (but if you’re experiencing a psychiatric emergency, call 911, 988, or go to your nearest emergency room).

  • What are the fees for therapy?

    I utilize a sliding scale to determine reduced rates for some clients who demonstrate financial need, so please contact me to find out about rates. Credit cards and Venmo are accepted. Payment is due at the time of each appointment and you may qualify for out-of-network benefits from your health insurance provider to get reimbursed for a portion of the cost. I utilize Simple Practice for accepting payments and providing “superbills”, which you submit to your insurance for reimbursement.

  • Do you accept insurance?

    Forward Thinking Mental Wellness is not in-network with any insurance providers at this time. You may qualify for out-of-network benefits from your insurance provider. We utilize a programs to help you navigate that process to find out your coverage. There are many benefits to paying out-of-pocket for therapy; including greater flexibility, privacy, and control over your treatment. Insurance companies require diagnoses, treatment plans, and more, and there are less therapists who participate in insurance networks.

  • Will therapy be hard?

    Therapy does require you to address some challenging aspects of life, and this can certainly be uncomfortable. The outcome, however, is typically well worth it! As you uncover the difficulties you face, you will also be healing and developing coping skills and acceptance. Therapy helps us to be better problem-solvers and more mentally well-adjusted individuals.

  • Who benefits from therapy?

    Everyone! Therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all and the approach can be customized to fit your needs. You can benefit from therapy if you’re facing career changes, relationship conflicts, uncertainty, or stress from life’s everyday challenges. We can all benefit from mindfulness, acceptance, a listening ear, validation, and more coping skills in our toolbox.

  • What are your credentials?

    I’m an LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) and LCADC (Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor) in New Jersey.

    LCSW # 44SC05822500

    LCADC # 37LC00292400

  • What's with the monstera leaves?

    First, I just think they’re beautiful. Caring for plants is part of my self care, it’s very relaxing and so fulfilling to see things grow as I nurture them. But also, monsteras have lots of deep symbolism from all over the globe, including compassion, abundance, prosperity, respect, renewal, protective energy, inner strength, and a quest for knowledge. It is also said to have healing properties, promoting calm and relaxation—so it seemed pretty perfect to me! You can read about all of that here.