FAQs
General Questions About Therapy
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During your consultation call, we’ll take a few minutes to get to know you and understand what you're looking for. We’ll ask about what’s bringing you to therapy, any preferences you may have (such as in-person vs. virtual or therapist style), and answer any questions you have about the process.
We’ll also help you understand your insurance coverage or go over private pay options, and review next steps. After the call, we’ll send you a link to our secure SimplePractice portal via email. This portal is where you can learn more about how Lightpath Counseling works, complete a brief intake, and provide your insurance information so we can verify your benefits and match you with the right therapist.
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Your first session is a chance for you and your therapist to get to know each other and begin building a comfortable, supportive connection. Since your intake paperwork is completed ahead of time through our portal, the session can focus more on conversation rather than forms.
Your therapist will gently guide the conversation to better understand your background, what’s been going on, and what you’re hoping to get out of therapy. You’re always welcome to share at your own pace—there’s no pressure to talk about everything all at once.
This is also your space to ask questions, get a feel for your therapist’s style, and start thinking about goals that feel meaningful to you. Many clients leave their first session feeling relieved to have taken that first step and supported in the process ahead.
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Yes, we offer both in-person and virtual therapy options. We understand that everyone has different preferences and schedules, so we aim to provide flexibility that works best for you.
Whether you prefer meeting face-to-face in a comfortable office setting or the convenience of virtual sessions from home, we’ll help you choose the option that feels right for you. Our in-person sessions are offered at our Port Jefferson, NY 11777 location. Availability may vary by therapist, and we’ll do our best to match you accordingly.
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It’s completely normal to wonder if therapy is the right fit, especially if it’s your first time. You don’t need to have everything figured out to begin—many people start therapy simply because something doesn’t feel quite right, or they’re looking for extra support.
Therapy offers a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where you can talk openly, gain insight, and begin to feel more grounded and understood. Whether you’re facing a specific challenge or just want to better understand yourself, therapy can be a meaningful step forward.
If you’re unsure, that’s okay too—the consultation call is a gentle way to explore your options, ask questions, and see if it feels like the right fit for you.
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Finding the right therapist is an important part of the process, and it’s okay if it takes a little time. A good fit often feels like someone you can be comfortable with—someone who listens, understands, and makes you feel supported and respected.
In your first few sessions, you might notice whether you feel at ease opening up, whether the therapist’s style works for you, and if you feel heard and understood. You’re always welcome to ask questions or share what you need along the way.
If something doesn’t feel like the right fit, that’s okay too—you’re not alone in that. We’re here to support you and can help match you with another therapist who feels like a better fit.
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We typically recommend starting with weekly sessions to build consistency and momentum. Meeting regularly at the beginning helps you and your therapist get to know each other, establish goals, and begin making meaningful progress.
As you start to feel more confident and see progress, sessions can often be spaced out based on your needs and preferences. We’ll work together to find a schedule that feels supportive and right for you.
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The length of therapy is different for everyone and depends on your individual needs and goals. Some clients come for a short period of time to work through a specific concern, while others choose to stay longer for ongoing support and personal growth.
Therapy is a collaborative process, and you and your therapist will regularly check in on your progress and adjust as needed. You’re always in control of your pace, and we’ll work together to find what feels most helpful and supportive for you.
Many clients begin to notice positive changes within the first few months, especially with consistent sessions.
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Getting started is simple. The first step is to schedule a consultation call with our intake team, where we’ll learn more about what you’re looking for and help match you with a therapist who feels like a good fit.
Once your paperwork is completed and your insurance is verified, your intake coordinator will work with both you and your therapist to schedule your first appointment at a time that works best for you. You won’t have to figure it out on your own—we’ll guide you through each step of the process.
Fees & Policies
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Our fees can vary depending on your insurance coverage or the type of service you’re seeking. We accept many insurance plans, and for those using insurance, your out-of-pocket cost will depend on your individual benefits.
If you’re not using insurance, we’re happy to go over our private pay options and help you understand what to expect. We aim to keep therapy as accessible as possible and will work with you to find an option that feels manageable.
Because fees can change, we’ll review all costs with you during your consultation call so you have a clear understanding before getting started—no surprises.
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We accept a variety of payment options to make the process as easy and convenient as possible. This includes most major insurance plans, as well as credit cards, debit cards, and HSA/FSA cards for private pay.
All payments are handled securely through our SimplePractice portal, so you can feel confident that your information is safe and protected. If you have any questions about your specific payment method or coverage, we’re always happy to help walk you through your options.
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We ask that you provide at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment. This helps us offer that time to another client who may be waiting.
When less than 24 hours’ notice is given or an appointment is missed, a fee may apply. We understand that things come up, so if something unexpected happens, please reach out—we’ll always do our best to be understanding and work with you when possible.
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In many cases, yes—we accept a wide range of insurance plans. During your consultation call, we’ll help you understand your coverage and whether your plan is accepted.
You’ll also be able to provide your insurance information through our secure portal so we can verify your benefits before your first session.
If your plan is not accepted or you prefer not to use insurance, we’re happy to go over private pay options with you as well.
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Your privacy and confidentiality are very important to us. Everything you share in therapy is kept confidential in accordance with professional and legal standards.
We use a secure, HIPAA-compliant system (SimplePractice) to manage your information, including scheduling, documentation, and communication.
There are a few limited exceptions to confidentiality required by law (such as concerns about safety), which your therapist will review with you at the start of treatment so you feel fully informed and comfortable.
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Confidentiality is a core part of the therapy process, and we are committed to protecting your privacy. What you share in sessions is kept confidential and not shared without your written permission.
There are a few important exceptions required by law, such as if there is a risk of harm to yourself or others, or in cases involving abuse or neglect. Your therapist will review these limits of confidentiality with you at the beginning of treatment so you feel informed and comfortable.
If you ever have questions about your privacy or how your information is handled, we’re always happy to talk it through with you.
When You Feel Nothing Changes
If part of you is tired of going in circles, that matters. If you’re at the point where you almost make a decision and then pull yourself back, that matters too. Lightpath Counseling Group offers in-person therapy in Port Jefferson and virtual sessions across New York. You don’t have to have the right words. You don’t have to have it figured out.