General FAQs

  • How do I get started - do you offer consultations?

    To make an appointment you can fill out the contact form, email me directly at jenna@peacefullypresentcounseling.com, or call or text (732) 334-8374.

    Yes - I offer free, 15-minute consultations to understand what you are looking for out of therapy as well as a therapist and to discuss how I can help.

  • How long are therapy sessions and how many times a week would we meet?

    Each session lasts about 55 minutes.

    It is recommended to start with weekly sessions. Frequency depends on your needs and progress, which we will decide together in order to determine what is best for you.

  • Do you offer in-person sessions?

    Currently all of my sessions take place virtually.

  • do you only work with eating disorders

    No, I work with a variety of concerns beyond eating disorders. While I have experience supporting clients with eating disorders, my work in that area has given me valuable skills and insight to help navigate a variety of other areas as well, including self-esteem, anxiety, trauma, depression, and more. Every client’s journey is unique, and I’m here to provide support with whatever that may be.

  • Do you accept insurance?

    I am an out-of-network provider and do not accept insurance directly. However, many clients are able to use their out-of-network (OON) benefits for reimbursement. I am happy to provide a superbill that can be submitted to your insurance to support with this process. I am happy to guide you through the process if needed.

  • Why would I want to work with an out of network (OON) therapist?

    Working with an out-of-network therapist offers several benefits:

    More choice and better fit: You're not limited to a short list of providers. This lets you find someone whose style, specialty, and approach truly meet your needs — which is one of the biggest predictors of success in therapy.

    Increased privacy: Insurance companies often require a formal diagnosis and may request access to your records. Private pay allows for more discretion and autonomy in your care.

    Flexible, personalized care: As an OON therapist, I’m not bound by insurance limitations (like session caps or treatment approvals). This means we can focus on your healing at your pace, using the methods that work best for you.

    Specialized expertise: Many OON therapists have advanced training in specific areas (like eating disorders, trauma, or somatic therapy) that may not be widely available in-network.

Therapy & Treatment FAQs

  • Is what I say in therapy confidential?

    Yes, everything shared in therapy is treated with respect and confidentiality, with a few legal exceptions (e.g., safety concerns, abuse reporting). Nothing will ever be reported without your knowledge first.

  • What can I expect during the first session?

    First sessions are typically longer (up to 90 minutes) in order for you to help me get to know you better so that I can determine how to best support you. We will typically discuss your reasons for seeking therapy, your goals, as well as relevant background information. It is also a great chance for you to ask questions and for you to determine if I am a good fit for you!

  • Do you collaborate with other professionals?

    Yes! Team-based care is important in the overall treatment and benefit of each client. With your consent, collaboration with other providers can occur to support your needs.

  • Will my family be involved?

    When appropriate — especially with adolescents — we involve family members in education, support, and/or family therapy. For adults, involvement is client-directed.

  • What if I don't know what to talk about or I am not ready to open up about certain things?

    This is completely okay and also completely normal when it comes to therapy. You don’t need to have everything figured out in order to start. Part of the therapy process is exploring what is on your mind, understanding your emotions, identifying patterns, and clarifying what you’d like to work on. Therapy isn’t about forcing anything before you’re ready. You are in control of what you share, when you share it, and how we approach vulnerable topics.

    We’ll move at a pace that feels safe and right for you. Sometimes just naming that something is hard to talk about can be a powerful first step. Healing takes time and therapy looks different for everyone.

  • I've tried therapy before and it didn't help - how will this time be different?

    It can feel really discouraging when a past therapy experience did not help - or even made things harder. Therapy may not have worked in the past because of timing, the approach used, or not feeling safe or fully seen. It can be helpful to name these things. This space is collaborative and tailored to you. We’ll move at your pace, focus on what matters most to you, and check in regularly to make sure it’s working.

Eating Disorder-Specific FAQs

  • What if I am not "sick enough" for treatment?

    There is no such thing. If food, body image, or eating behaviors are affecting your life, you are worthy of care — regardless of your weight, lab results, or how “bad” things seem. Early support can make a big difference and you deserve the care and compassion needed to recover.

  • Can I keep my eating disorder and still come to therapy?

    Not everyone believes in or wants full recovery. Recovery is a process, not a switch. I will always meet you where you are in your recovery journey and understand that you may not be fully ready to “let it go” and to accept help. We will explore your eating disorder and what it is doing for you, without judgment, and have honest conversations about your goals.

  • What is the goal of treatment?

    The goal is freedom — from food rules, body hatred, secrecy, and shame. Progress may look different for everyone — you might feel more self-aware, better able to cope, or notice changes in your relationships or thinking patterns. Full recovery is possible.

  • What if I am scared to start treatment?

    That is completely normal. Eating disorders often thrive in secrecy and fear, so taking the first step can feel overwhelming. It is important that you feel safe, seen, and supported as soon as your first session starts, which I will always work my hardest to provide.