Are you dealing with an issue that you’re having a hard time handling on your own? If so you could benefit from talking to somebody about it. Having a friend or family member to talk to is helpful, and an important resource, but it may not be as effective as speaking with a professional counselor. I am a licensed counselor who is trained to help with a variety of personal issues. I also provide a non-biased, objective perspective to the issues you are facing. I will guide you towards finding your own answers and solutions that will be most effective for you. If there is a problem you are experiencing that you feel you need help with then it is more than likely that therapy is for you.
Therapy should be a place where you can come to talk about your feelings, emotions, struggles, hopes, fears, etc. It should be a place where you feel safe, comfortable, and can talk freely about various areas of your life. Different treatment modalities are utilized, depending on each individual’s presenting concerns. The ultimate goal of therapy is for you to learn coping strategies that allow you to better deal with issues that come up in your daily life. I hope to empower you to realize your fullest potential and be better equipped to manage your life and handle obstacles that may come your way.
Sessions usually run 45-50 minutes. We will mutually agree upon a scheduled time for sessions. It is important that you arrive on time, and that you let me know about any cancellations in advance.
I know that many people have busy schedules, and for that reason I offer evening appointments, and sessions over the phone.
The law generally protects information that is shared between patient and therapist. However, there are certain situations that are not covered by law. Some of those circumstances are when a patient discloses intent to harm themselves or others, or when child abuse is indicated. In these circumstances a therapist is considered to be a mandated reporter and must take action according to the law. If you wish for me to consult with another professional (such as a medical doctor, psychiatrist, or guidance counselor) in order to get a more comprehensive picture of who you are or coordinate care, that is something we could incorporate into treatment. You would just need to sign a consent/release allowing this communication.
Cash, check, or credit card are accepted as payment for sessions.
I currently accept the following insurance plans:
1199SEIU
Aetna
Cigna
BCBS
Magnacare
Beacon Health Options
GHI
Emblem Health
If I do not have your insurance plan listed here, please contact me to verify whether I do/do not accept your plan. If I do not accept your plan I am more than happy to submit for partial/full reimbursement for your session payment through out of network benefits.
I encourage you to contact your insurance company and check if you have out of network benefits. If you are unsure of what your plan covers and what you would be responsible for, you can always speak with an insurance representative.
If you need further assistance I am here to help with the process or contact your insurance plan on your behalf.
I offer reasonable session fees, please contact me for more information regarding payment options. I do not want financial reasons to be the reason you do not get treatment, therefore I offer fees at a sliding scale based on income for several cases. I also offer payment plans to accommodate my patients.
Therapy, like a good pair of jeans, is all about fit. Therapist and client must work together to create the therapeutic relationship. We must work to create respect and trust as the base of this relationship. Sometimes this relationship doesn't form properly which may contribute to a negative counseling experience. I strive to build our relationship on a foundation of a supportive, unbiased, and nonjudgmental attitude. I also encourage an honest, open dialogue in which we can discuss your concerns, what you think is helping or not helping, and any feelings you may have about the therapeutic relationship. It is through this stance I take in our sessions that we can work on goals you set and make progress towards resolving the issue(s) that brought you into counseling.
Kelly Shuster, LMHC
222 Middle Country Rd
Smithtown, NY 11787
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