Frequently Asked Questions


Why does someone go to therapy?

Therapy provides a safe place for someone to discuss the challenges they are facing in life. Problems may include major life transitions, trauma, stress, depression, difficulty with relationships, loss, etc.  Therapy can help with understanding the issue and developing skills to address them.

Does what we say in therapy remain confidential?

One of the most important parts of therapy is confidentiality, meaning that what is discussed in therapy, stays in therapy.  Only in a few circumstances will confidentiality be breached, such as suspected past or present abuse or neglect of a child, adult with disabilities, or the elderly.  If the therapist suspects that someone is at risk of harming themselves or others, the therapist has a “duty to warn” and will need to breach confidentiality. 

How do I schedule an appointment?

Simple! You can reach out via the contact site here. You can also e-mail me at kcotelcsw@gmail.com or call me at (201) 48-3886.  I offer a free 15 minute phone consultation.

Do you take insurance?

I am an out-of-network provider.  Necessary paperwork can be provided to you to submit for out-of-network reimbursement. 

How do I determine if I have out-of-network benefits?

To determine if you have mental health coverage through your insurance carrier, the first thing to do is call them.  Some questions you may want to ask include:

  • What are my mental health benefits?

  • How much does my insurance pay for an out-of-network provider?

What are the benefits of using an out-of-network provider or no insurance?

  • Increased privacy: When you see an out-of-network provider, like myself, you avoid having your treatment plans, diagnoses, and progress notes from being a part of your permanent health records. When using your insurance with an in-network provider, you must have a mental health diagnosis in order for insurance to cover your services and may also require treatment plans and progress notes. 

  • Customizable treatment: Insurance companies will often have a say in how frequently a client can see their therapist, limit their number of sessions, and require therapists prove that treatment is medically necessary. They may also require that a certain type of therapy be implemented in order to pay for services. As an out-of-network provider, we have more of a freedom to determine what kind of treatment that best suits your needs and change it as we see fit.