Getting Started

  • Online therapy (aka, “telehealth” or virtual therapy) takes place over the internet instead of in person.

    It’s not for everyone, but lots of people like the convenience of joining from home or work without having to travel. Research indicates that online therapy is as effective as in-person treatment.

  • YES — I am accepting a limited number of new clients.

    Please message me with your insurance plan information + the state where you would access therapy. (I’m licensed in Michigan & New York, so you would have to join sessions from either of those states.)

  • Yes — I offer a free 15-minute phone consultation. This is an opportunity to see if we’re a good fit and for you to ask questions.

  • Message me through the Contact page or directly at therapy@yuminielsen.com.

  • The first appointment is about information gathering and lasts an hour. I’ll ask a lot of questions about your life right now and things that have happened to you. I’ll ask about relationships, what growing up was like, what’s important to you, and what kind of support you’re looking for. If you’ve tried therapy before, I’ll ask about you liked or found helpful.

Insurance / Cost

  • Yes! I don’t work with EAPs but am currently in network with these providers:

    NEW YORK: Aetna, BCBS of MA (in NY), Optum/United Healthcare, Oxford

    MICHIGAN: Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) of MI PPO & HMO, Blue Care Network, BCBS of MA (in MI), Optum/United Healthcare

    I highly recommend double checking with your insurance plan before scheduling an initial appointment or consult. The billing platforms I use provide estimates only.

  • WITHOUT insurance: $150/session.

    WITH insurance: Everyone’s plan is different. I strongly recommend calling the number on the back of your insurance card or reviewing your summary plan description or summary of benefits and coverage for details about your mental health coverage (e.g., What is my copay? Have I met my deductible? How many sessions will be covered ?).

Logistics & Scheduling

  • Generally, Monday to Friday, 9am - 5:30pm. I also have a few later appointments.

  • I prefer to meet weekly to start. Building trust and rapport early on is critical; more frequent sessions in the beginning promote continuity, deeper exploration, and consistent support.

    That said, I understand people have different needs, schedules, and budgets, so we can talk about what’s best for you.

  • I’ll do my best to respect your time, so please be mindful of mine.

    If you need to cancel, please do so at least 24 hours before your scheduled appointment to avoid a late cancellation/”no-show” fee of $45.

    This isn’t meant to be punitive but helps make it possible for me to accept insurance, which only pays for sessions held (i.e., when a scheduled session is missed, I don’t get paid).

  • You’ll have access to my calendar and can book appointments yourself.

  • That’s fine. You’ll have access to my calendar and can either schedule standing appointments so your time is reserved, or you can book individual sessions based on when you’re free. It’s up to you.