Frequently Asked Questions
Honest answers to common questions — so you can arrive at your first session feeling informed and at ease. Don’t see yours? Just ask.
How do I schedule a consultation?
Use the contact form or call 908-913-0327. Melissa personally responds to every request within one business day to schedule your introductory call.
What happens during the consultation call?
A relaxed 15-minute phone call — no forms, no clinical assessment. You'll share what's bringing you in, ask any questions about Melissa's approach, and decide together whether therapy would be a good fit. There is no obligation to move forward.
What happens in the first session?
The first session is a warm intake conversation. Melissa will explore your background, current challenges, and what you're hoping therapy can change. You'll also have the chance to ask questions. By the end, you'll have an early sense of what working together might look like.
How long does therapy typically last?
It depends on your goals. Some clients reach their goals in 8–12 sessions. Others benefit from longer-term work of six months to a year or more, especially with complex trauma or deeply-rooted patterns. Melissa reviews progress with you regularly so you are always in the driver's seat.
How often will we meet?
Most clients begin with weekly sessions, which creates momentum and consistency. As progress builds, many shift to bi-weekly and eventually monthly check-ins before graduation. Melissa recommends a frequency based on your situation, and you always have input in the decision.
What therapy approaches does Melissa use?
Melissa draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based approaches, trauma-focused CBT, Family Systems Theory, attachment-informed practice, somatic awareness, strengths-based approaches, and narrative therapy. For children, she integrates play therapy principles. She tailors the approach to each individual rather than following a fixed protocol.
What issues do you specialize in?
Melissa specializes in childhood trauma, sexual abuse recovery, depression, anxiety, relational issues, and navigating the challenges of everyday living. She also has deep experience with family conflict, parenting support, grief, life transitions, adolescent development, and self-esteem concerns.
How do I know if therapy is working?
Progress can feel subtle at first — more space between anxious moments, slightly less reactivity, a growing ability to observe your own thoughts. Melissa checks in on progress regularly and invites honest feedback. If something is not working, the plan changes. You always have the right to ask and receive a real answer.
Do you accept insurance?
Meyer Psychotherapy is an out-of-network provider. Payment is due at the time of each session — we accept all major credit cards, HSA, and FSA cards. We provide a monthly superbill so you can submit for out-of-network reimbursement. Many clients find their insurance covers 40–70% of the fee.
What is a superbill?
A superbill is a detailed invoice including your diagnosis code, session dates, and service codes. You submit it to your insurer yourself, and if you have out-of-network mental health benefits, they reimburse you directly. Melissa's office provides these monthly at no additional charge.
What is your cancellation policy?
Sessions cancelled with less than 24 hours notice are charged at the full session fee. Life happens and Melissa understands — occasional exceptions are made. The full policy is provided in writing at your first appointment.
Is telehealth as effective as in-person therapy?
Research consistently shows telehealth therapy is as effective as in-person for most presenting concerns, including anxiety, depression, and trauma. Many clients find it easier to be vulnerable from their own environment. Melissa has offered telehealth for years and brings the same quality and attentiveness to every video session.
What platform do you use for telehealth?
Sessions are held on a HIPAA-compliant, secure video platform. You'll receive a link before each session — no app download is required. The platform works from any device with a camera and internet connection. Detailed instructions are provided when you schedule your first telehealth session.
Where can I access telehealth services?
Melissa is licensed to provide telehealth services throughout New Jersey. You must be physically present in the state during sessions. Telehealth is available to adults, teens, and for some family sessions.
What ages do you work with?
Melissa works with children ages 6 and up, teens, adults, and families. She does not currently offer therapy for children under age 6.
How do parents stay involved in child or teen therapy?
For child therapy (ages 6–12), Melissa actively involves parents with regular check-ins, parent guidance sessions, and home strategies. For teens, parents are involved in goal-setting and receive periodic updates while the teen's privacy within individual sessions is respected.
Will you tell me what my teen says in session?
Confidentiality is fundamental to building trust with adolescents. The content of individual teen sessions is kept private. However, Melissa will always communicate with parents if there is a safety concern (self-harm, suicidal ideation, abuse). This policy is explained clearly to both the teen and parents before treatment begins.
Are there limits to confidentiality?
Yes — legally-mandated exceptions include: imminent risk of serious harm to yourself or others, suspicion of child abuse or neglect, and court orders. Outside of these narrow exceptions, everything shared in therapy is strictly confidential. Melissa explains all of this clearly in your first session.
Can you speak with my doctor or another provider?
Melissa can coordinate with other providers — like your primary care physician or psychiatrist — with your written consent. Collaboration can be beneficial, particularly when medication and therapy are being used together. You are always in control of who receives information about your care.
Still Have a Question?
A proudly woman-owned New Jersey practice, independently led by Melissa J. Meyer.
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