Peter J. Paterno, MSW, LCSW

Q. How long does therapy or coaching last?

A. This depends on your needs and goals and can easily change over time as you redefine what  your goals are.  Therapy can last a few short sessions or a few years it is really quite variable.  For coaching I often recommend 6 sessions to start but 12-14 are generally what it takes.

Q. When will I know when I'm done?

A. I often ask clients early on to visualize and speak about  what they imagine they will "look like" when they are done.  I essentially try and work with my clients right from the start to conceptualize what achieving their goal will feel like and look like to them.  Ultimately, it is variable but you are never obligated to stay and if you do leave you can always come back.  I try always to support a client's decision regarding their treatment course.

Q. How much are your fees ?

A. My fees range for various services.  I offer pre-paid bundled services at substantial discounts but only recommend them after you have met me and feel comfortable that we are a good match.  I do not generally utilize a sliding scale, however, you may contact me for my exact fee schedule and to discuss options.

Q. How can I pay my bill ?

A. I currently accept only Empire BCBS of NY insurance but  do prepare insurance ready claim forms for you to submit if I do not participate with your plan. Payment is due at time of service.  I accept cash, checks and most major credit cards.  Monthly statements can be e-mailed or sent via regular mail.

Q. Is there any paperwork I need to bring ?

A. If I am in-network for your insurance plan then you will need to bring your insurance card.  You will have about 15 minutes of paperwork to complete prior to being seen. Please arrive early.  If you would like a jump start on the paperwork,  go to my Forms Page.

 Q. What if I am seeing you under my out-of-network benefits?

A. I can prepare insurance ready claim forms for your insurance company every two weeks or sooner if you would like.  In these cases, you are responsible for the payment of your fee at the point of service and the reimbursement check will go directly to you to recover costs based on your plan allowances after any out of network deductibles and coinsurances have been applied..

"Keep your mind on the things you want and off the things you don't want."

--Hannah Whitall Smith

"What happened yesterday is history. What happens tomorrow is a mystery. What we do today makes a difference - the precious present moment."

--Nick Saban