Frequently Asked Questions

  • Therapy can be helpful if you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, disconnected, or simply looking for support through a challenging life transition. You do not need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. Many people seek therapy to gain insight, improve relationships, develop coping skills, process past experiences, or create meaningful change in their lives. A consultation can help determine whether we are a good fit for your needs and goals.

  • The length of therapy varies for each person and depends on your goals, concerns, and individual circumstances. Some clients benefit from short-term therapy focused on a specific issue, while others choose longer-term therapy to explore deeper patterns and ongoing personal growth. We will regularly check in on your progress and adjust our work together as needed.

  • I am not in-network with any insurance plans. However, if your plan includes out-of-network mental health benefits, you may be eligible for partial reimbursement. I can provide a superbill for you to submit to your insurance company. Please contact me if you have questions about this process.

  • I believe therapy works best when it is guided by the needs of the client rather than the requirements of an insurance company. Working outside of insurance allows for greater privacy, flexibility, and autonomy in the therapeutic process.

    Insurance companies typically require a mental health diagnosis and may request documentation through audits or reviews. While diagnoses can be useful and meaningful in certain contexts, much of my approach is non-pathologizing and rooted in curiosity, compassion, and understanding how your experiences have shaped you. Many of the people I work with are not disordered. They are responding in understandable ways to difficult life experiences.

    I also believe therapy should have room to unfold at the pace and in the direction that is right for you, not according to what an insurance company determines is medically necessary. Working outside of insurance allows me to practice in a way that is aligned with my values and keeps the focus where I believe it belongs: on you and the work we are doing together.

    Choosing not to work with insurance also means less time navigating administrative barriers and more time focusing on providing thoughtful, individualized care.

  • A superbill is a detailed receipt for therapy services that can be submitted to your insurance company for possible reimbursement if you have out-of-network mental health benefits. Reimbursement rates vary by insurance plan, so it is recommended that you contact your insurance provider directly to learn more about your coverage. 

  • Sessions are offered in a secure and confidential format designed to meet your needs. Depending on availability and location, services may be provided virtually, in person, or through a combination of both. We can discuss the options available during your consultation.

  • Contact me today!

    Mahtaab@illuminatewithintherapy.com