Hello and Welcome
My name is Shawna Starkman, MFT. I am a psychotherapist in New York and New Jersey specializing in relationships, sex, and intimacy. I passionately believe in treating intimacy and sexual issues in the most holistic and integrative way possible by looking at the whole system, mind, body, and spirit.
I spent the first half of my working life as a set and interior designer, a career that gave me entry into hundreds of homes and insights into complex relationships. I witnessed first-hand the internal workings of many couples and family systems.
At a certain point, the couple's and family's future meant more to me than finding the perfect fabric or rug. So I decided to follow my heart, return to school, and become a sex, intimacy, and relationship therapist. I graduated from Thomas Jefferson University with a Masters of Science in Couples and Family Therapy, specializing in sex therapy.
What We Do Together
I am driven by the concept that pleasure is a right every human has and that sometimes we need a reminder of that fact. I believe in strength-based modalities and the empowerment of the individual. I integrate eclectic methods that include External Family Systems, Gottman Techniques, Solution Focused Therapy, and CBT to construct a unique approach for every client. I provide a warm and safe space to explore sexual empowerment and intimacy connection, gain greater pleasure alone and together, and tap into my clients' creative energy, flow, and vitality.
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Do you take Insurance?I am not on any insurance panels. I provide Superbills to the client at the end of every month for you to submit to your out of network benefits.
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Do you see people in person?All services are provided via Telehealth. I use a secure HIPPA compliant video conferencing platform.
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What are your rates?Individual sessions- (50 minutes) is $175. Couples sessions-(50-minutes) is $225. I accept credit cards, Zelle or Venmo. At this time, all of my sliding-scale spaces are occupied but I do have a waiting list.
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What is your cancellation policy?I kindly ask that you provide me with at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment. Any cancellations less than 24-hours or “no-shows” will be charged the full session fee.
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No Surprises ActGood Faith Estimate You have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” explaining how much your medical care will cost. Under the law, health care providers need to give patients who don’t have insurance or who are not using insurance an estimate of the bill for medical items and services. ● You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency items or services. This includes related costs like medical tests, prescription drugs, equipment, and hospital fees. ● Make sure your health care provider gives you a Good Faith Estimate in writing at least 1 business day before your medical service or item. You can also ask your health care provider, and any other provider you choose, for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule an item or service. ● If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can dispute the bill. ● Make sure to save a copy or picture of your Good Faith Estimate. For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises or call 800-985-3059.