Frequently Asked Questions
Getting started
Do I have to be in New York to work with Dr. Siff?
No. Dr. Siff sees all patients via telehealth — secure video sessions from wherever you are. She is licensed in New York, Florida, Pennsylvania, and Ohio, so as long as you are physically located in one of those states at the time of your session, you are eligible to work with her. Many of her New York patients are in Manhattan, Brooklyn, or elsewhere in the city and find telehealth far more practical than commuting to an office.
What does telehealth therapy actually look like?
Sessions are conducted by Zoom. You'll need a private space, a reliable internet connection, and a phone or computer. Most patients find they adapt quickly, and research consistently shows that telehealth therapy is as effective as in-person care for the conditions Dr. Siff treats.
How do I know if Dr. Siff is the right fit?
Dr. Siff offers a free 15-minute phone consultation for prospective patients. This is a chance to ask questions, describe what you're looking for, and get a sense of whether her approach feels like a good match. There's no obligation and no pressure.
How long does therapy take?
It depends on what you're working on and what you want from the process. Some people come with a specific issue and find meaningful progress in a few months. Others are drawn to the deeper self-understanding that longer-term psychodynamic work provides. Dr. Siff will discuss her honest assessment of what might be helpful for you in your initial sessions.
Insurance & fees
Does Dr. Siff take insurance?
Yes. Dr. Siff accepts several insurance plans depending on your state. See our "Insurance accepted" page for more details. You can also check her Alma profile for the most current list. If you don't see your plan listed, contact us and we'll help you figure out your options.
What if I have out-of-network benefits?
If your plan includes out-of-network mental health benefits, you may be reimbursed for a significant portion of session fees. Dr. Siff can provide a superbill — a detailed receipt you submit directly to your insurer. Many PPO plans cover 50–80% of out-of-network costs after a deductible. Call the member services number on your insurance card and ask: "What are my out-of-network outpatient mental health benefits?"
About the approach
What is psychodynamic therapy?
Psychodynamic therapy is an approach rooted in the idea that many of our struggles — in relationships, at work, or simply in how we feel day to day — are shaped by patterns we aren't fully aware of. These patterns often have their roots in earlier experiences. By bringing them into awareness in a safe, collaborative environment, you gain genuine insight — and with insight comes real freedom to make different choices. It's a deeper form of therapy than purely skills-based approaches, and the changes it produces tend to last.
What is Imago relationship therapy?
Imago is an approach to couples therapy developed by Dr. Harville Hendrix. It's based on the idea that we are unconsciously drawn to partners who reflect unresolved dynamics from our earliest relationships — and that understanding this creates a path toward more conscious, connected partnership. Dr. Siff is trained in Imago and uses it with couples who are looking to understand the real roots of their conflict, not just manage it.
Does Dr. Siff work with religion or spirituality?
Yes. Dr. Siff is comfortable working with patients for whom faith, religion, or spirituality is an important part of their life and identity. She works with patients from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds without judgment.
Does Dr. Siff work with adolescents?
Yes. Dr. Siff works with adolescents as well as adults, and with families navigating the behavioral, emotional, and social challenges of raising teenagers. Adolescent therapy typically involves occasional parent check-ins alongside individual sessions.
Practical questions
What languages does Dr. Siff speak?
Dr. Siff is fluent in English and Spanish, and has working proficiency in Russian and French.
What are your session times?
Sessions are 55 minutes. Dr. Siff offers availability M-F, 9-5. Specific openings are listed on the booking page.
What is your cancellation policy?
Please provide at least 24 hours notice to cancel or reschedule. Late cancellations and no-shows will be charged the full session fee, as that time cannot be offered to another patient on short notice.
Is what I say in therapy confidential?
Yes. What you share in therapy is strictly confidential with very limited legal exceptions — Dr. Siff is required to act if there is imminent risk of harm to you or someone else, or if a court orders disclosure. Outside of those narrow circumstances, nothing leaves the room without your written permission.