FAQ

I'm new to therapy... what should I expect?

Psychotherapy has been proven to have many benefits in the form of improved interpersonal relationships, reduction and/or elimination of unwanted thoughts, improvement in problem-solving abilities and conflict resolution, and increasing emotional stability (Anthony & Farkas, 2012). In order to achieve these results, a client must roll up his/her sleeves and get to work! Anticipate feeling more discomfort earlier on in the treatment process due to the exposure and discussion of problematic areas of one's life. Stick with the process and allow my support to help you through the more challenging steps.

What theoretical orientation is selected and how is it applied to the work?

We implement Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques (CBT) to address symptoms such as depression and anxiety given CBTs efficacy rate (NIMH, 2015). The concept is simple: reframe thoughts to produce healthier feelings and more constructive behaviors. We also utilize Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to address mood dysregulation, emotional instability, strained interpersonal relationships, and poor impulse control. A workbook format is applied when implementing DBT. Solution Focused Therapy, Psychodynamic Theory, and Narrative Theory are also part of our repertoire.

Will I be in therapy forever?!

Our intent is to target your identified problem areas and create measurable goals and objectives for you to meet in a timely manner. We do not seek to work with clients longer than treatment is necessary. We appreciate that our role is to essentially render ourselves obsolete. For clients with chronic symptoms that require consistent maintenance, longer-term treatment may best serve their condition(s). We will collaborate to determine the best course of action.

What are the differences among the different mental health disciplines?

Social Worker:

Attended an accredited institution to earn a Master's Degree in Social Work
Typically completed a full-time 2-year program
Less emphasis on research or preparation for academia
Person-in-environment fit
Licensed according to hours accrued, i.e. LMSW, LCSW, or LCSW-R

Mental Health Worker:

Attended an accredited institution to earn a Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling
Typically completed a full-time 3-year program
Less emphasis on research or preparation for academia
Focus on counseling and treating mental health disorders, while social workers serve consumers as well, within larger social service systems
Licensed according to hours accrued, i.e. LMHC

Psychologist:

Attended an accredited institution to earn a Ph.D. or Psy.D. in psychology (specialty varies)
Typically takes anywhere between 5-10 years to complete the program
Emphasis on research and academia if earning a Ph.D. while the Psy.D. is more clinically-oriented
Endorses the medical model to an extent while also focusing on assessment and evaluation
Licensed

Psychiatrist:

Attended an accredited institution to earn a medical degree (MD) with a specialty in psychiatry
Typically takes 10 years to become a physician
Unlike social workers and psychologists, psychiatrists can prescribe medication
Typically only medication-management as opposed to providing psychotherapy like other disciplines
Licensed

What is our professional style?

At The Harbor Psychotherapy, we are accessible outside of session time. We believe a crisis or emergency may be eliminated or minimized when professionals intervene off-hours, within reason.

During sessions, I (Jennifer Nikou) enjoy using humor as a means of levity as well as connecting with my clients. I am comfortable with necessary confrontation. I challenge clients to consider alternative perspectives. I enjoy educating clients on mental health material. I encourage self-reflection in the interest of improving self-awareness. I encourage you to ask your therapist about his/her professional style.

What is Confidentiality and how does it apply to treatment?

The law protects the confidentiality of clients. No information is disclosed without prior written consent from the client.
There are, however, some exceptions as recognized by the law. Therapists as well as other professionals are considered mandated reporters. Exceptions include:

Suspected (proof is not necessary) child abuse or or elder abuse.
If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person. The therapist is required to notify both law enforcement and the person being threatened.
If a client intends to harm him/herself the therapist will make every effort to work with the individual to ensure their safety. However, if an individual does not cooperate, additional measures may need to be taken.
When the client is a minor (under the age of 18), issues pertaining to danger to self or others can not be kept confidential and will be disclosed to the adolescent's parent/guardian when necessary.

What if I need medication?

We work closely with an Ardsley-based psychiatrist (also has an office in Manhattan) who can prescribe medication as needed. He accepts Aetna and 1199 insurance and is an out of network provider for all other insurances. We also work with a psychiatrist in the building.