Frequently Asked Questions

We know starting therapy can bring up a lot of questions. Here’s what to expect.

If you don’t see your question below, we’re happy to help. Just reach out and ask.

Appointments & Scheduling

How long are therapy sessions?

Sessions are typically 55 minutes which is just enough time to dig into what matters without feeling rushed. The last few minutes are usually for wrapping up and scheduling. Some therapists offer longer sessions for intensive work, which you can discuss with your therapist based on your needs.

Where are you located?

We offer in-person sessions at our Garden City and Lynbrook locations.

Lynbrook Office: 211 Broadway, Lynbrook, NY 11563

Suite 201 or 207 – your therapist will confirm your suite number before your first visit. If you’re coming after 5 PM or on Saturdays, just buzz for entry.

For our Garden City location details, please contact us when scheduling.

Is virtual therapy available?

Yes! We offer virtual therapy through IntakeQ, which is a secure, HIPAA-compliant platform. The nice thing is it works right in your browser. You’ll receive your session link before your appointment and you’ll just click on it at the time you booked. For the best experience, try to find a private, quiet space with a stable internet connection where you can speak freely.

How do I schedule, reschedule, or cancel an appointment?

Contact your therapist directly and copy Hello@ExpressiveConnectionsMHC.com so everyone stays in the loop. We try to be flexible when life happens, but please give us as much notice as possible when you have to cancel or reschedule. This allows us to offer the time slot to another patient.

Policies & Insurance

Comfortable chair for therapy in Garden City

What is your cancellation policy?

We know that sometimes things happen in life that are beyond your control, but therapists reserve time specifically for you and we have to honor that time. If you need to cancel, please give us at least 48 hours notice. Cancellations within 48 hours will incur a $95 fee unless you can reschedule within the same week. If you cancel that rescheduled session too, both sessions will be charged for ($190). We know this feels strict, but it helps ensure everyone who needs therapy can access consistent care.

What if I need to cancel due to illness or an emergency?

Real emergencies are different from regular cancellations. If you’re sick, we’ll often suggest switching to virtual so you don’t lose your session. For true emergencies, please reach out as soon as you can to let us know. We handle these exceptions on a case by case basis.

How do I get help with billing questions?

Our billing team can help with insurance forms, payment issues, and anything else billing-related. Reach out directly at Office@ExpressiveConnectionsMHC.com or call (516) 825-6567. They’re genuinely helpful and can walk you through any billing-related confusion.

Do you take insurance?

We work with most major insurance carriers and accept both in-network and out-of-network benefits. Our team can help verify your coverage and explain any costs before you begin.

What to Expect

What should I expect at my first appointment?

The first session is about getting comfortable and starting to build trust. Your therapist will ask about what brings you in, but you don’t have to share everything right away. They’ll also explain how they work, discuss confidentiality, and answer your questions. It’s normal to feel nervous; most people do. By the end, you’ll know if this feels like somewhere you can exhale and be yourself.

For children under 13, the first session is usually just with parents or caregivers. We’ll gather history, discuss concerns, and plan how to introduce therapy to your child in a way that feels safe and non-threatening.

Do I need to stay during my child’s session?

Yes, for in-person sessions with children under 13, a parent, legal guardian, or authorized adult needs to remain in the waiting area. This is about ensuring your child’s safety and comfort, and being available if needed.

This gives you a rare 55 minutes to yourself – bring a book, catch up on some emails, or simply sit, breathe and enjoy the quiet.

I’m new to therapy. What if I’m nervous?

Most people feel nervous before their first session – it’s actually a good sign that you’re ready to do something meaningful. You don’t need to prepare anything. Just show up as you are. Our therapists are used to working with people who’ve never done this before. The hardest part is usually the first session.

We prioritize warmth, safety, and genuine connection. You don’t need to have all the answers or know exactly what you want to work on. We’re here to explore that with you.

How often will I come to therapy?

Most people start with weekly sessions. This consistency helps build momentum and trust because too much time between sessions can feel like you’re losing the thread of what you’re working on. As you progress, you might move to less frequent sessions. Some people need more intensive support. Your therapist will work with you to find a rhythm that works for you.

Can therapy be short-term or goal-focused?

Of course. Not everyone needs or wants long-term therapy. If you’re dealing with a specific situation, preparing for a major transition or working through a particular crisis, we can focus on those goals. Some people come for a few months, others for years. The timeline is yours to decide.

Is everything I share confidential?

What you share in therapy stays in therapy, with a few important exceptions we’re legally required to act on: if you’re at imminent risk of harming yourself or others, or if there’s child or elder abuse. For teens, we balance their privacy with parental involvement carefully. We’ll explain all of this clearly in your first session so there are no surprises. The point of therapy is to create a space where you can be completely honest without fear of judgment or consequences, so we take confidentiality very seriously.