What is therapy?

Therapy is what you make it. I believe in working collaboratively. I listen to my clients, meet you where you are, but also challenge you to reach your own potential. When you come in, we discuss your concerns and set personalized goals to get started on immediately.

What should I expect at my first appointment?

It’s ok to be nervous for your first appointment. Your paperwork is sent electronically prior to the appointment, so when you arrive, we will get right into getting to know you and your therapy goals. I will explain the process of therapy with me, and answer any questions you may have.

Do you take insurance?

I do not take insurance of any kind. If you have “out-of-network” coverage or reimbursement as part of your insurance plan, you may be able to submit a Superbill to get partially reimbursed for what you pay for therapy. A Superbill is an official notice that you came and paid for services.

IS There Paperwork?

I have a small amount of paperwork to fill out electronically before the first session, that’s it. This includes consent to treat you, a HIPAA acknowledgement form, and other such forms.

How Long do i need therapy before I feel better?

It depends. I usually tell people to give me 3-5 sessions, and if you don’t feel a difference, we are missing something big. I do not believe in limiting the number of sessions or rushing through therapy. So, you may be working with me for more than a month or two. However, I have never had a client say it wasn’t worth it when they made big changes in themselves and their lives.

Will we talk about my family AND/or my past?

Yes, if you are okay with it. I was trained as a systemic family therapist, which means that I believe that everyone is connected to and formed by the people they interact with. This includes relationships past and present. If I am able, I like to ask about all important relationships in your life including biological, adopted, and chosen family, as well as important friends, partners, and others.

Do I have to cry?

Of course not. But it’s okay if you do. Nothing in therapy is mandatory, except that you show up and tell me something about how you’re doing. The rest will happen naturally, as you are ready.

What Are your qualifications?

I am a PhD, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, AAMFT-Approved Supervisor, and am EMDR-trained.

I hold a Masters in Family Therapy from Thomas Jefferson University, and a PhD in Social Work and Social Research at Bryn Mawr Graduate School of Social Work and Social Research. I did my undergrad at Villanova University (go Cats!) and hold a BA in Psychology.

I have also earned the designation of Approved Supervisor from the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists.

Finally, I have completed training and supervision for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) through EMDRIA.

I am also a member of various professional organizations, Honors Societies, and community programs in Philadelphia where I practice.

Can you prescribe medication?

No. The person who can prescribe medication is a psychiatrist. Psychiatrists have an MD, or CNP degree, because they went to medical school or graduate nursing school. I am a Marriage/Couple/Relationship and Family Therapist, which means that I use talk therapy and other modalities such as meditation. I also practice EMDR to work with trauma survivors and those with PTSD and C-PTSD.

Is there anything you can’t do?

I am not an emergency responder or emergency mental health evaluator. I cannot provide medication or medical advice. I don’t work with clients in active addiction, because I believe that inpatient or intensive outpatient care is a more appropriate first step. I do not do custody evaluations or divorce mediation.

Other than that, nothing surprises me or is off limits.

Why does mental health have a stigma?

I think sometimes people fear what they don’t understand. Mental health issues are almost always treatable by therapy, psychiatry, and other methods. Stigma creates shame and fear around getting help, and I hope to squash that shame whenever possible.

Any other questions?

I am happy to answer any other questions that you may have.

Please reach out to me using the contact form on this website, or by emailing bvolpintesta@peoplefirsttherapy.org.