Frequently Asked Questions
Starting therapy often comes with questions, and we’re here to help make the process feel more comfortable and approachable. Browse our frequently asked questions below to learn more about appointments, insurance, therapy options, and what to expect at Starkey Counseling.
Do you offer virtual therapy?
Yes. I offer both in-person and virtual therapy sessions for clients located in New Jersey. Virtual therapy provides a flexible and convenient option for individuals, teens, and families who prefer to meet from the comfort of their home or have scheduling limitations.
How long are sessions?
Individual therapy sessions are approximately 55 minutes in length.
Do you work with anxiety and OCD?
Yes. I work extensively with individuals struggling with anxiety disorders, OCD, intrusive thoughts, panic symptoms, phobias, health anxiety, and stress-related concerns.
Many clients seek therapy because they feel trapped in cycles of overthinking, reassurance seeking, avoidance, or persistent worry that interferes with daily functioning and relationships. Treatment focuses on helping clients better understand these patterns while developing practical tools to manage symptoms more effectively.
What is ERP therapy?
Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is a highly effective, evidence-based treatment commonly used for OCD and anxiety disorders.
ERP helps individuals gradually face feared thoughts, situations, or triggers while learning to resist compulsive behaviors, reassurance seeking, or avoidance patterns that maintain anxiety over time.
The goal of ERP is not to eliminate thoughts completely, but to help clients build tolerance for uncertainty, reduce fear responses, and regain confidence in their ability to manage distress without relying on compulsions or safety behaviors.
Do you accept insurance?
Yes. I accept several insurance plans as well as private pay options. Insurance coverage and benefits vary by plan, and clients are encouraged to verify their mental health benefits prior to beginning treatment.
Do you accept insurance for couples therapy?
Couples therapy is often a private pay service, as many insurance plans do not cover relationship counseling unless one identified partner has a diagnosable mental health condition that is being impacted by relational difficulties.
In some situations, couples sessions may be eligible for insurance reimbursement depending on medical necessity and clinical presentation. This is evaluated on a case-by-case basis and can be discussed further during the consultation process.
What can I expect during the first session?
The first session is an opportunity for us to discuss what brings you to therapy, explore current concerns, and begin identifying goals for treatment. I also gather background information to better understand your experiences, strengths, and the patterns contributing to current difficulties.
My approach is collaborative, supportive, and tailored to your individual needs. You do not need to have everything figured out before starting therapy.
What types of therapy do you use?
I utilize a variety of evidence-based approaches depending on each client’s needs and goals, including:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)
- Prolonged Exposure Therapy
- Trauma-Focused CBT
- Mindfulness-based strategies
- Somatic and nervous-system-based approaches
- Family systems concepts
Treatment is individualized and focused on helping clients build practical, sustainable coping skills while gaining deeper insight into emotional and behavioral patterns.
