Guide
What to expect in your first session
Nobody arrives at a first session relaxed. Knowing the shape of it in advance takes one unknown off the pile, so here is the order things happen in and what each part is for.
On this page
- The consultation comes first
- What the consultation is for
- Booking, and where you need to be
- What the first 50 minutes tend to be like
- Money, so it is not a surprise later
- After the first one
The consultation comes first
Before anything is booked, there is a free initial consultation of 15 to 20 minutes, by video or by phone. It is short on purpose. There is no obligation at the end of it and no expectation that you decide on the spot. Ask whatever you need to ask.
What the consultation is for
Two things, mostly. You get a sense of how Melanie works and whether her way of working sounds like something you could settle into. She gets a sense of whether she is the right clinician for what you are carrying. Fit is not a formality, and if what you need sits outside what she treats, she will say so rather than start and hope.
Booking, and where you need to be
Booking runs through Carepatron. Weekly therapy is telehealth, so the setup is on your end: a room where a door closes, a device that will not drop the call, headphones if the walls are thin. You also need to be physically located in New York State at the time of each session — the license is a New York license, and that is what it means in practice. Settle the logistics beforehand so the first session is not about logistics.
What the first 50 minutes tend to be like
Sessions are 50 minutes, usually weekly. The approach is somatic and experiential, which means attention goes to what is happening in your body while you talk, not only to the account you are giving of it. There is no physical touch in the work. Melanie describes herself as showing up as a real person rather than a blank screen, so expect a conversation rather than a silent figure taking notes.
Money, so it is not a surprise later
A session is $235. Every plan is out-of-network here, there is no sliding scale, and a monthly superbill is available if you want to try your out-of-network benefits. Whether any of it comes back is your plan's decision, and reimbursement is never guaranteed. Changing or canceling a session takes 24 hours' notice; later than that and the full fee is charged.
After the first one
Sessions are usually weekly. The work depends on continuity, especially early on. Nobody can tell you in session one how long anything will take, and therapy outcomes are not guaranteed. What you can do early is say when something feels too fast, too much, or simply off. You set the pace, and pacing is part of the method rather than an apology for it.
FAQ
Questions people ask
How long is the consultation, and does it cost anything?
It runs 15 to 20 minutes and it is free. Video or phone, whichever you prefer. There is no obligation afterward.
Do I have to live in New York?
Weekly therapy takes place via telehealth. I am licensed in New York and can only offer psychotherapy services to people who reside in New York State. You also need to be physically in the state at the time of each session.
Do you work with couples?
No. All therapy here is individual, and with adults.
What if we decide I am not the right fit?
Then you have spent 15 to 20 minutes and come away with a clearer sense of what you are actually looking for. Part of my job on that call is to say so if someone else would serve you better. A consultation that ends in a clearer direction has done its job.
What if something urgent comes up before we meet?
If you are in danger right now, call or text 988 or dial 911. This site isn't a crisis service and email is not monitored for emergencies.
Still have a question?
The consultation is free, about fifteen to twenty minutes, and there is no obligation afterwards. Weekly therapy takes place via telehealth. I am licensed in New York and can only offer psychotherapy services to people who reside in New York State.