Call or Text: (973) 433-5770

FAQ

Where is the office located, and what are the hours?

My therapy studio is in a medical office building in Maplewood. There’s a parking lot behind the building and street parking on Millburn Avenue, Raymond Terrace, and May Terrace. I’m there Monday – Friday by appointment only.

2115 Millburn Avenue, Suite 101, Maplewood, NJ 07040

Can sessions take place virtually?

Absolutely! Some clients prefer in-person and use virtual sessions as a backup, and others are solely virtual.

Whatever works for you is how we work!

How long is a session, and how often does one meet?
Sessions are usually 60 minutes long, which means we meet for 53 minutes, and I get 7 minutes for paperwork. Other options offered are 90 minutes, 45 minutes, and 30 minutes, depending on what’s needed. We’ll determine the frequency of sessions based on your needs, creating the best level of support at any given time.
How much is each session, and how is payment made?
Venmo is the preferred payment method, but credit card payments or cash/check are acceptable. If I am in-network with your insurance provider, I submit claims directly to them, and they set the rate(s) based on service codes; you pay a copay/co-insurance fee when we meet. If I am out of network, you pay the total cost, and I can provide a statement (called a Superbill) for you to submit to your insurance company.
Which insurance plans are accepted?

I can accept insurance payments from Aetna and a few others through Headway, and BCBS directly. The first time we connect by phone, and we both feel like we’re a good match, if you have BCBS, I will ask you to send me pictures of your insurance card so I can call to verify benefits and ensure that I am on your plan. Once we get a ‘yes,’ we can schedule the initial appointment. If you’re with a plan that Headway works with, you will get verified and take care of any copays through Headway.

How do I set up an initial appointment?
The first time we connect by phone if we both feel like we’re a good match and if you are paying out-of-pocket, we will set up an initial appointment (potentially in a timeslot that will work for you regularly moving forward).
What's the cancellation policy?
Please give at least 24 hours’ notice if you have to cancel an appointment. Anything less than 24 hours means you will incur the full session fee, as I have set aside that time for you. If you’re going through your insurance company, you would be responsible for their portion of the fee and your copay, as I cannot submit a claim when you don’t attend a session.
How do you pronounce 'Couillard'?
It’s French, so there are a lot of extra vowels, but it sounds like Kool-Aid (Cool-Lard).
How do I know if we're a good fit?

Before we decide to meet, we will talk on the phone for about 15 minutes, and you will get a chance to tell me a little about what you’re looking for/struggling with and ask questions to help you decide about the therapy.

Since our relationship is the starting point for working well together, this will allow us to see if we click. If I feel like my skill set and approach might be beneficial for you, and you feel comfortable and connected to the things I’ve said, and we both agree to move forward, then we set up a time to meet and give it a try. We will continue to communicate about how it’s going as we go deeper into the work

What is art therapy? And isn't it more for kids?

Art therapy is an alternative to talk therapy that involves using the creative process in treatment. Using your innate creativity allows you to explore and express things in ways that often go beyond words. And once you create something outside yourself, it can be easier to reflect on it.

Art therapy is popular with kids because making art is something we all did before we could even talk, and that part of us sometimes gets lost, but it never gets old!

What if I'm not any good at art? Can't we just talk?
The goal of using artmaking in session is not to improve your art skills but to build problem-solving skills to help you cope with life’s challenges in new ways. The focus is on the process, not the end product. The therapy studio is a judgment-free zone and more like a playground for exploring and having fun with materials. Engaging in self-expression is always available and optional.
What happens in a session?

Everybody’s different, but the session usually starts with a verbal check-in, any highs/lows that stood out since we last met, any goals met or missed, and anything top of mind to address this week. In addition, we will identify any ongoing projects or materials you’re in the mood to use in our work together.

Lots of people find it easier to talk when their hands are busy. If you have no ideas for discussion or artmaking topics, we will talk a bit more or try out some things and see what surfaces. Directives are often helpful and always available.

Will there be homework?
Perhaps. But it might not feel like work and won’t be graded!
What do you expect/require of me?
The basis of our partnership is for us to show up with a willingness to trust the process and do the work.
What are your training and experience?

My formal training includes a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling with a Specialization in Art Therapy – a dynamic duo of pictures of words working together to move people forward.

My life experiences of navigating a mosaic of family dynamics, relationships, identity, careers, and parenthood inform the scope of my practice.

Do you only work with the LGBTQ+ community?

Mostly, but not solely. I am a proud and affirming member of the LGBTQ+ Community, but my non-queer clients are often advocates and appreciate my perspective on the most human issues we all have in common.

I have the most profound respect and admiration for the courage and resilience I see in all my clients, and I am honored to be a part of their journey.

Do you live in the SOMA community?
Yes! So, we may bump into each other in town one day. But not to worry, I will always remain anonymous unless you initiate a salutation!