Frequently Asked Questions
Do you offer Teletherapy or remote options for therapy sessions?
Yes! I use HIPAA compliant software to conduct sessions via video or audio!
How do I make an appointment?
Call me at 908-374-6546! I am happy to provide a free 15-minute phone consultation to see if we are a good fit and if you would like to come in for a session together! If I am unavailable, leave a voicemail and I will return your call as soon as I can.
You can also text me at the same number, 908-374-6546, contact me through this site or email me (probably the fastest way to get in touch) at christinamartinicounseling@gmail.com
Click here to sign up electronically:
What happens after I make an appointment?
During our phone consultation, if you decide to make an appointment, I will ask for your contact information such as email and phone number. Before our session, I will send you some important paperwork that explains the polices of my practice and important information about confidentiality. I will ask you to read and return these. Additionally, I will send out an electronic intake form so you can tell me a little bit more about yourself and what you hope to get out of therapy.
What is therapy actually like?
During our first session we will get to know each other and see how it feels working together. I will review your intake information and you will be invited to share what’s on your mind, what’s bothering you and any concerns you would like to discuss. I will ask some exploratory questions in order for us to set goals for therapy together. At the end of the session I will check in with you to see how it went, and then we will set another appointment together.
It is important to remember that all therapy sessions are your time and are guided by your needs. You won’t be judged or criticized in any way so this is a time that you can be honest and open, knowing that all your feelings, opinions, and fears will be kept confidential.
Sometimes you may get homework to take away from our session. Ahhhh!! Homework!!! Don’t worry! The work outside of therapy will be identified together and will be something that feels comfortable for you to complete in order to reach your goals - this could be a journaling activity, a thought log to complete, a habit to practice, a communication technique to try, a reading or breathing practice, or whatever we decide together works the best for you…
What happens in a couples therapy session ?
I always start couples therapy sessions with a centering activity such as a reading to focus our energy into the space. The couple then starts by taking a deep breath and sharing appreciations about each other. In the first session, I will gather information to learn more about you, but in future sessions you will engage in intentional dialogues, the cornerstone of Imago Relational Therapy, together. You and your partner will identify problems or concerns you want to discuss and the session will be focused on these concerns. You will have a chance to express your feelings about the problem and be fully heard by your partner without interruption. The other key components of Imago Therapy are validation and empathy. After one partner has shared, the other partner will have a chance to respond, be heard fully and receive validation and empathy.
What are your credentials?
I received my undergraduate degree in English Literature from the University of Notre Dame. I then joined the New York City Teaching Fellows and received a Masters in Secondary English Education from Pace University. I earned my Masters in Social Work from NYU and I am also a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with Psychotherapy “R” Privilege (LSCW-R). I am a lifelong learner and constantly seek out professional development opportunities. I studied Foundations in Family Therapy at the Ackerman Institute for the Family, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Imago Therapy, Dialectical and Behavioral Therapy, Creative Arts interventions and have experience with Grief and Bereavement.
Do you take insurance?
I am an Out of Network Provider! This means that, with permission from your insurance company, you will get reimbursed for services. Call the number on the back of your insurance card for behavioral health and ask if they allow out of network providers. I will prepare all the paperwork you need to easily get reimbursed by insurance. Without insurance, an individual session is $125 and a couples session is $200. Call, text or email for an appointment!