COUNSELING CORNER FOR MARRIAGE
AND FAMILY THERAPY, P.C.
FAQ & Interview
with Founder & Director, Cari Sans, M.A., LMFT
Get Your Questions Answered
Here are some answers to the questions received often. If you can’t find what you are looking for, please get in touch.
Who do you work with?
Couples Experiencing:
✔ Lack of communication
✔ Disconnection
✔ Little to no physical or emotional intimacy
✔ Arguing over the same issues
✔ Betrayal and infidelity
✔ Conflict and parenting differences
✔ Infertility
✔ Life cycle transitions (birth of children, kids leaving the nest, etc.)
✔ Ambivalence about staying or leaving
Individuals Who Are:
✔ Hurting from a relationship
✔ Confused about whether to stay or leave a relationship
✔ Wanting change in their romantic relationship, but their partner is not open to receiving the support
✔ Having an affair and not sure how to move forward
✔ Dealing with the end of their relationship
✔ Unsure about how to set boundaries with others
✔ Lacking self-esteem, confidence, or passion
What is the process of therapy with you?
I typically meet with clients bi-weekly for 55-minute sessions. We begin by getting to know each other, identifying old patterns, and working on breaking them while identifying triggers and developing new relational skills. I provide a framework for sustainable change and growth that decreases the overwhelm during the difficult times. Whether I am working with an individual or couple, I see the issue(s) presenting in the context of relationships. We explore how to be more mindful, communicate effectively and empathetically, build trust, and deepen emotional connections. We practice new skills through exercises and assignments to build new habits and achieve lasting transformation in our lives and relationships.
What if the issue is with a spouse/partner, but s/he doesn't want to come in?
Although it takes two to tango, it only takes one person shift the dance. If you are willing to look at your part of the dance and do what is necessary to shift it, then I will show you how to avoid the old ways and change the dance you do with your romantic partner, or any relationship.
How can a client make this successful, and what is expected of them?
Openness and commitment are essential, as well as the courage to be vulnerable. Sometimes it is hard to open up to the process, and can feel uncomfortable at first. The more you open up and share, feel acknowledged and validated, the more comfortable you will become. Being open to seeing what you have control over to change is not only vital to success, but also empowering.
Do you work with children or adolescents?
I do not. I only work with adults providing Individual or Couple Therapy Sessions.
Does this work?
Therapy requires effort and commitment, and the results are dependent on the work you put in. If you want a magic pill, there is not one to give. You must do the work, which means participating in the sessions and between. You must practice self-reflection and have the courage to be more vulnerable. I cannot guarantee a specific outcome, nor will I tell you what to do (in most cases). With that being said, I will hold you accountable. If you are doing things that are not in alignment with what you say you want, I am going to point that out. If I witness you repeatedly in self-sabotaging patterns or when I am aware that the client's situation is not healthy (such as in cases of emotional, physical and verbal abuse), I am going to speak about it.
Attending sessions is just one aspect of the process. The bulk of the progress occurs outside of our meetings, so it is crucial to commit to doing the work independently. Holding yourself accountable is also essential, which is why I suggest meeting at least twice a month initially.
Do you accept my insurance?
I do not participate in-network with any insurance plans and all services are out-of-pocket. You may be eligible to be reimbursed for therapy sessions. To receive coverage, you require a mental health diagnosis and must reside in the state of New York. Inquire with your insurance provider to clarify if you have out-of-network benefits for mental/behavioral health. I typically use the procedure codes as follows: 90791; 90837; 90847; 90846. You may request from me a "Superbill"to be submitted to your insurance to be reimbursed back to you. For information on my current rate schedule a Get to Know Me Call.
How do I or We get started?
If you have not already, schedule a free 15-minute Get to Know Me Call at www.calendly.com/carisans/gettoknowmecall. This is a Free 15-minute phone call where I get to know a little about your situation and answer any additional questions you may have. This way we both can get a sense if we are a good therapist-client match.
