FAQs
What do you do in therapy and/or counseling?
Therapy can be offered in 1:1 sessions or in a group, depending on what a client prefers. The therapist and client focus on relationship building in order to identify what needs to be worked through and set goals. Based on the client’s need, counseling incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), mindfulness and self-growth practices to improve the mind, body and soul.
Do you conduct group therapy sessions?
Yes. I have over 20 years of experience working in group settings with children ages 4 and up. I find small groups (5-8 kids) to be particularly beneficial because they learn in real-time to develop social/emotional skills, how to self-regulate, be more self-aware, express their feelings and learn appropriate coping skills. Group therapy can also work well in adult settings and with parents too.
How often am I expected to see you?
There is no “one-size-fits-all” answer for how often a client and a counselor should see each other. On average, after an initial phone consultation where the counselor begins to get a clearer understanding of the client’s needs a more regular schedule, once a week for about 45 minutes is a common interval, can be established.
Do you diagnose mental health disorders?
Yes, as a licensed mental health counselor I can, and do, diagnose mental health disorders. Post-diagnosis, I also help establish and maintain Coordination of Care with the client to ensure that they are receiving the best possible support for their condition.
Do you prescribe medication?
No, I do not. Only a medically trained psychiatrist can prescribe medication to a mental health patient in New York. A licensed mental health counselor, psychotherapist or psychologist cannot.
Do you accept health insurance?
Currently, I am a practicing provider for select insurance panels. Please email me for specific details. My fees are based on a sliding scale depending on specific client needs.
Do we have doctor/patient confidentiality?
Yes. I follow HIPAA protocol and what we speak about in our sessions, apart from information that is illegal or would lead me to think that you may be a harm to yourself or others, is kept strictly between us.
When am I going to start to “feel better”?
“Feeling better” is a relative term and is different for all people. Depending on the kind of specific issues or problems a client is facing, and their willingness to accept responsibility for those problems, will often dictate how long it may take for them to start to exhibit signs of improvement and/or recovery.
OK, I think I might be ready to talk. How do I get started?
That’s great to hear. Email me at LisaHamadaMHC@gmail or call my office at 631.935.2742 to schedule your FREE phone consultation.