The idea of starting therapy can be intimidating, especially if it’s your first time. We want to put you at ease as much as possible. We’ll log on to our video call and we can talk about whatever you’d like. For the first session, your therapist will have specific questions for you, and then in future sessions we can discuss anything that’s on your mind. We’ll work together to create specific goals in a treatment plan so we can make sure we’re making progress toward what’s important to you. We will offer empathy, support, feedback, and practical solutions for you based off of the goals we set together. Sessions are approximately 50 minutes long.

At FTMW, we utilize 1 of 2 HIPAA-complaint, user-friendly platforms called Simple Practice or Doxy. You will be made aware of which platform to use and given a link beforehand. At the time of our sessions, find somewhere private with minimal interruptions and likelihood of being heard, go to the link, and your therapist will connect you. It’s that simple, no sign-ups or logins, and you can do it from any phone, tablet, or computer.

At this time, all appointments are strictly virtual. Many people find virtual therapy a highly convenient alternative to combating traffic or finding a baby-sitter to make time for therapy. You can have a session right from the comfort of home (or work, your car, or even the great outdoors!)—anywhere in the states of NJ or PA! (Please note: your clinician s required to note your precise location at the beginning of each session).

We have flexibility to discuss your unique needs and work together in creating plans for treatment. Typically, we start off meeting weekly. Some individuals then move to biweekly or once per month, but others choose to remain meeting on a weekly basis. Your therapist may often available to have additional sessions in times of greater stress or challenges (but if you’re experiencing a psychiatric emergency, call 911, 988, or go to your nearest emergency room).

At FTMWellness, we want to make therapy financially accessible. We are in-network with some insurance companies, and if you have insurance that we don’t contract with, we can work with them to obtain out-of-network benefits, create agreements (single case agreements or gap exceptions), and partner with companies like Headway to make the most out of your benefits. Self-pay sessions are generally between $150-$400, depending on various factors, so reach out today to find out your options. Credit cards and Venmo are accepted. Payment is due at the time of each appointment. You can always contact info@ftmwellness.com for billing questions or concerns.

Forward Thinking Mental Wellness has some providers who are in-network with Horizon BCBSNJ, Aetna, and Optum Health (through US Healthcare). Even if your particular therapist is not in-network, you may qualify for out-of-network benefits with your particular plan. We utilize programs to help you navigate that process to find out your coverage. You may also opt to pay out-pf-pocket for therapy; there ar me many benefits to doing so, including greater flexibility, privacy, and control over your treatment. Insurance companies require diagnoses, treatment plans, and more.

Therapy does require you to address some challenging aspects of life, and this can certainly be uncomfortable. The outcome, however, is typically well worth it! As you uncover the difficulties you face, you will also be healing and developing coping skills and acceptance. Therapy helps most people to be better problem-solvers and more mentally well-adjusted individuals.

Everyone! Therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all and the approach can be customized to fit your needs. You can benefit from therapy if you’re facing career changes, relationship conflicts, uncertainty, or stress from life’s everyday challenges. We can all benefit from mindfulness, acceptance, a listening ear, validation, and more coping skills in our toolbox.

Nikkie: First, I just think they’re beautiful. Caring for plants is part of my self care, it’s very relaxing and so fulfilling to see things grow as I nurture them. But also, monsteras have lots of deep symbolism from all over the globe, including compassion, abundance, prosperity, respect, renewal, protective energy, inner strength, and a quest for knowledge. It is also said to have healing properties, promoting calm and relaxation—so it seemed pretty perfect to me! You can read about all of that here.

Nikkie is an LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) and LCADC (Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor) in New Jersey.

LCSW # 44SC05822500

LCADC # 37LC00292400

Keith is an LPC (licensed Professional Counselor) in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

NJ LPC # 37PC00789600

PA LPC # PC016642

Tori is an LSW (Licensed Social Worker) in New Jersey.

NJ LSW # 44SL06975900