What's the difference between individual therapy and couples therapy?

Individual therapy focuses on personal challenges like anxiety, depression, or trauma, while couples therapy addresses relationship dynamics, communication, and connection between partners. At Center for Hope and Renewal, both use evidence-based approaches tailored to your specific goals, and each can be offered in-person or via telehealth across Jersey City and surrounding areas.

How does trauma-informed therapy work for PTSD symptoms?

Trauma-informed therapy emphasizes safety, stabilization, and gradual healing, helping clients process trauma without re-traumatization. It addresses symptoms like hypervigilance, flashbacks, and anxiety through structured, supportive techniques. At Center for Hope and Renewal, therapists tailor approaches to help clients rebuild emotional resilience and regain a sense of control.

When should a family consider family therapy?

Family therapy is helpful when communication breaks down, behavioral challenges arise, or stressors like school pressures, parenting conflicts, or trauma impact relationships. It's also beneficial for multi-generational living situations common in Jersey City. At Center for Hope and Renewal, evidence-based family systems approaches create a safe space for all members to express needs and strengthen bonds.

Can teens attend therapy sessions without their parents?

Yes, teen counseling typically includes confidential one-on-one sessions to build trust and encourage honest communication. Therapists experienced in adolescent development help teens navigate anxiety, identity concerns, and school stress. At Center for Hope and Renewal, parents receive guidance on supporting their teen's progress while respecting privacy and therapeutic boundaries.

What are the benefits of group therapy compared to individual sessions?

Group therapy offers peer support, reduces isolation, and helps clients realize they're not alone in their struggles. It complements individual therapy by building community connection and shared coping strategies. At Center for Hope and Renewal, licensed clinicians facilitate groups addressing anxiety, depression, identity exploration, and trauma recovery in Jersey City and virtually.

How do therapists help children build emotional vocabulary?

Child counselors use play-based and expressive techniques to help children identify and name their feelings in developmentally appropriate ways. This builds resilience, confidence, and healthier emotional regulation. At Center for Hope and Renewal, therapists also guide parents on strengthening supportive routines at home to reinforce progress.

Does eating-disorder therapy include family involvement?

Yes, family involvement can be clinically beneficial, especially for teens, as it helps address relational patterns and creates a supportive home environment. At Center for Hope and Renewal, therapy is culturally informed, non-judgmental, and focuses on long-term healing, healthy coping, and rebuilding body trust for both individuals and families.

What makes LGBTQIA+ counseling different from general therapy?

LGBTQIA+ counseling is identity-affirming and addresses unique challenges like minority stress, family acceptance, and navigating cultural expectations. Therapists trained in intersectional and culturally responsive approaches create a safe space for identity exploration. At Center for Hope and Renewal, clinicians serve the diverse Jersey City community with sensitivity and clinical expertise.

Is telehealth therapy as effective as in-person sessions?

Yes, telehealth provides the same clinical quality as in-person therapy when conducted by licensed therapists using secure, HIPAA-compliant platforms. It reduces commute barriers and supports continuity of care for busy clients in areas like Hoboken, Brooklyn, and NYC. At Center for Hope and Renewal, virtual sessions offer flexibility without compromising treatment outcomes.

How does therapy address stress from commuter lifestyles in Jersey City?

Therapists help clients develop coping strategies for fast-paced urban living, career pressures, and work-life balance challenges common among commuters. Sessions incorporate mindfulness, emotional regulation, and structured problem-solving. At Center for Hope and Renewal, the Jersey City office is conveniently located near transit hubs, and telehealth offers added flexibility.

What's the biggest mistake people make when starting couples therapy?

Many couples wait too long, allowing resentment and communication breakdowns to deepen before seeking help. Starting early makes rebuilding connection and empathy much easier. At Center for Hope and Renewal, therapists guide couples through perspective-taking and structured problem-solving to restore closeness, whether in-person or via telehealth.

Can therapy help with school-related anxiety in high-performing districts?

Yes, therapy addresses academic pressure, perfectionism, social stress, and emotional regulation challenges common in competitive school environments around Jersey City. Therapists integrate coping strategies tailored to teens and children navigating these demands. At Center for Hope and Renewal, both in-person and online sessions support students and their families.

Does CHR accept insurance for therapy?

Yes we do! We accept Blue Cross Blue Shield, Horizon, Empire, Anthem, United Healthcare, Aetna, AmeriHealth, Magellan, Cigna/Evernorth Behavioral Health and we are also an Out of Network Provider. We also have a reduced fee/sliding fee scale program that is offered to clients based on income and availability within the program. Please reach out to inquire about space for the program.

How do I make an appointment as a new client for therapy?

Appointments for new clients can be made a number of ways. Call us at 551-349-1727 Email us at frontdesk@centerforhopeandrenewal.com Use our “Contact Us” link to request a followup. Book directly online on our website here. When inquiring, please specify the therapist you’re interested in working with or provide a brief summary of areas you’re looking to work on and we will provide a recommendation for a therapist based on their background and expertise.

Is therapy at CHR done virtually or in person?

Each of our therapists have predetermined in office days and offers telehealth sessions outside of those in office days. In office sessions are conducted at our office in Downtown Jersey City. Depending on which day you see your therapist, you will meet with them virtually or in office. If you prefer in office sessions, but your therapist does not have in office openings at the initiation of sessions, clients are welcome to notify their therapist that they prefer in person sessions and your therapist will notify you as soon as an in office spot opens up.

What happens after I confirm my first appointment with a therapist?

CHR will register you in our system and email you a registration link for your patient portal. Once registered for your patient portal, there will be a total of 12 initial intake forms that will require your review and signature BEFORE your first appointment. If your appointment is confirmed to be virtual, we will email you the link to the session 48 hours prior to the appointment. Please keep in mind that you will receive a new link to each session and past links can not be reused.

How do I pay for my therapy sessions?

Client balances can be paid using a credit card on your patient portal or by calling the front office at (551) 349-1727 and providing the payment information. Payments can also be made by check. Checks should be made out to “Center for Hope and Renewal” and sent to 264 Newark Ave, Jersey City NJ. We also accept HSA and FSA cards through your patient portal. Statements are sent to the home address on file as well as available on your patient portal. If you do not want paper statements mailed to your address, please send a written request to our office at frontdesk@centerforhopeandrenewal.com.

Where is the CHR office located?

Our office is located in the heart of Jersey City, NJ. We are a 5-8 minute walk from the Grove St. PATH station making us easily accessible to clients from surrounding areas like Hoboken and Bayonne. Once arriving at 264 Newark Ave, buzz the bell labelled "CHR". One of our team members will buzz you in. Please do not arrived more than 5 minutes before your appointment as our therapists may all still be in sessions and unable to buzz you in. Other businesses located around the office in Jersey City are: We are located on the floor above “Jersey City Gold Buyers” We are located across the street from “Salon 17” We are located across the street and 1 block from “Kaffa Espresso Bar” We are 2 blocks from “Gussy’s Cafe”.

Can I work with a new therapist at CHR?

Yes, at CHR we take client-therapist matching very seriously. Our intake coordinator takes care in working with new clients in matching them with the best fit in their therapist at CHR. Our intake coordinator will work with you in understanding the areas a client would like to address and make recommendations depending on therapists' specialities. However, if you do not think the therapist you were matched with is the best fit, we are happy to discuss transitioning you to another CHR therapist that may be a better fit. The therapeutic relationship is ultimately a collaborative partnership. A healthy therapeutic relationship makes you feel safe, respected, understood and ultimately you feel like progress towards your treatment goals are being made. It can also be as simple as "vibe"/intuition and personality compatibility. If you are unsure if your therapist is the right fit for you, we encourage you to process this with your therapist or if you do not feel comfortable processing it with your therapist, give our intake coordinator a call and they will be happy to review it with you to make sure you're getting the best possible care.

How do I cancel a therapy appointment?

Cancellation requests can be made on the patient portal, by calling the front desk, or by emailing your therapist. Please keep in mind that CHR has a 24 hour cancellation policy and if the session is cancelled with less than 24 hours notice, the client is subject to a cancellation fee.

Can I reschedule my appointment?

If you need to cancel your appointment but interested in rescheduling with your therapist for the same week, please reach out to your therapist directly and they will follow-up with their availability, if any for the week.

How can therapy help me?

Therapy can help you by giving you a safe, judgment-free space to talk through what’s weighing on your mind and understand yourself better. A trained therapist helps you untangle overwhelming thoughts, learn practical skills to manage stress and emotions, and break patterns that aren’t serving you. It’s not about being “broken” — it’s about having support, clarity, and tools so you can feel more in control, improve your relationships, and handle life with more confidence.

Can I speak with a therapist before I confirm an appointment?

CHR is happy to offer a consultation with a CHR Supervisor who can answer any questions you have about therapy and the overall process. During your first session (the intake), your therapist will complete a psychosocial assessment to learn about your background. This is also your chance to ask questions, start building rapport, and get a sense of whether the therapist feels like a good fit for you.

How long will I be in therapy?

Ultimately, the length of therapy depends on your goals, your pace, and what feels most helpful for you. You and your therapist can check in regularly to see what’s working and whether you want to continue, adjust, or wrap up. There’s no single “right” length of time for therapy, but here’s a helpful general guideline: Short-term therapy: Many people attend for 8–16 sessions (about 2–4 months) when they have a specific concern or goal. Medium-term therapy: Some continue for 6–12 months to work through deeper patterns or challenges in multiple areas of life. Long-term therapy: Others stay in therapy for a year or more, especially if they find ongoing support helpful or are working through complex or long-standing issues.

How often do I meet with my therapist?

Therapy works best when it’s consistent. Most clients start with weekly sessions, and once meaningful progress has been made, many (not all) transition to biweekly sessions. This gives you time to practice the skills you’ve learned and get comfortable with less frequent support. From there, the goal is usually to work toward “graduating” from therapy, though some people choose to remain on a biweekly schedule for a longer period if that feels right for them. CHR does not offer monthly sessions.

What can I expect during my first intake session?

An intake session is your first meeting with your therapist, and its main purpose is to help them get to know you and understand what brought you to therapy. You can expect your therapist to ask questions about your background, current concerns, mental health history, daily life, and what you hope to get out of therapy. They may also go over confidentiality, attendance expectations, how sessions work, and answer any questions you have. It’s also your chance to get a feel for the therapist’s style, start building comfort and trust, and decide whether they’re a good fit for you. It’s normal to feel a little nervous—your therapist knows this and will guide the conversation at a pace that feels manageable.

How long are therapy sessions?

Sessions are typically 50 minutes, but some clients may have 60-minute sessions. Longer sessions are reserved for those experiencing more acute or distressing issues that require additional time and space with their therapist. Duration of session and clinical need is determined by your therapist.

What areas can your therapists help me with and specialize in?

A mental health therapist can help you with a wide range of challenges, including, but not limited to: Managing stress Anxiety Depression Improving self-esteem Working through past experiences or trauma Navigating relationship issues Coping with life changes Building healthier habits and coping skills. OCD ADHD Eating disorders They provide support, tools, and perspective to help you understand yourself better, break unhelpful patterns, and feel more grounded and in control of your life.

Can I talk to my therapist about anything? What can I talk about?

Yes! You can talk to your therapist about anything that’s on your mind. Therapy is a safe, confidential space designed for you to share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. You can talk about: Emotions like sadness, anger, anxiety, or stress Life challenges, relationships, or conflicts Past experiences or trauma Habits, coping skills, or personal goals Decisions you’re facing or changes in your life Anything that feels confusing, overwhelming, or important to you Even if something feels small or unrelated, it’s worth bringing up—therapists are trained to help you explore whatever matters to you.

What is your confidentiality policy?

CHR is committed to keeping our clients’ information safe and confidential. We take it very seriously. Our confidentiality policy means that what you share in therapy stays private. Your therapist cannot share your personal information or session details with anyone without your permission. This creates a safe space for open and honest conversation. However, there are a few important exceptions where your therapist may be required to break confidentiality: If there is a risk that you or someone else may be harmed If there is suspected abuse or neglect of a child, elder, or vulnerable person If a court orders disclosure of your records Outside of these situations, everything you discuss is protected, allowing you to speak freely and safely.

I need evening or weekend sessions, do you offer that?

Yes! All of our therapists offer some evening and/or weekend appointments. These times are often in high demand, so we may not always have an evening or weekend slot available for new clients right away. If you’re able to start with a daytime session, let your therapist know that you prefer evenings or weekends—they can then offer you the next available opening during those times.

Do you offer telehealth sessions? And what about in person sessions?

Yes! We offer both virtual and in-person sessions. Most or the majority of our therapists have availability for both options. Virtual sessions are conducted on a HIPAA-compliant platform, and in-person sessions take place at our office in downtown Jersey City, located at 264 Newark Ave.

What is virtual therapy?

Virtual therapy is a type of telehealth specifically for mental health. It lets you meet with your therapist online through a secure, private video platform. Virtual therapy works just like in-person sessions—you can talk about your thoughts, feelings, and challenges, learn coping skills, and work toward your goals—but from the comfort of your home or another private space. It’s convenient, safe, and fully confidential.

Is virtual therapy as effective as in person therapy?

Yes — for many people, virtual therapy can be effective. Research shows it often delivers results similar to in-person therapy.

Is my information secure online and is telehealth safe?

Yes! When you do virtual therapy, your information is protected by strict privacy and security rules. Our practice uses HIPAA-compliant platforms, which are designed to keep your personal and health information private and secure.

Why is CHR a better option than large teletherapy companies like BetterHelp?

CHR provides long-term, consistent care, whereas large teletherapy companies like BetterHelp and GROW often experience high therapist turnover. Our therapists stay on the team for years, allowing clients to build and maintain steady, meaningful therapeutic relationships. Our management team carefully handpicks each therapist, evaluating experience, specialties, client fit, and ability to engage effectively. In contrast, large teletherapy companies typically have less rigorous screening, hiring many applicants with minimal vetting for skill or experience. CHR pays our therapists fair, competitive rates, which supports manageable caseloads and prevents burnout. Large teletherapy companies often underpay their therapists, leading to overworked providers and potentially lower quality care. We provide customized treatment plans tailored to each client’s unique needs and life circumstances. Large teletherapy companies, by contrast, tend to use standardized, “one-size-fits-all” approaches that may not address the uniqueness of each person. At CHR, we take a team-based approach. Our therapists meet with a supervisor or consultant at least twice a month—and often weekly—to ensure the highest quality of care. Multiple professionals contribute to thinking about your current and future treatment. Large teletherapy companies typically do not offer consistent supervision or consultation, meaning your therapist may lack a “soundboard” to explore additional options and interventions.

FAQs | Center for Hope and Renewal | Jersey City & Hoboken, NJ

What's the difference between individual therapy and couples therapy?
Individual therapy focuses on personal challenges like anxiety, depression, or trauma, while couples therapy addresses relationship dynamics, communication, and connection between partners. At Center for Hope and Renewal, both use evidence-based approaches tailored to your specific goals, and each can be offered in-person or via telehealth across Jersey City and surrounding areas.
How does trauma-informed therapy work for PTSD symptoms?
Trauma-informed therapy emphasizes safety, stabilization, and gradual healing, helping clients process trauma without re-traumatization. It addresses symptoms like hypervigilance, flashbacks, and anxiety through structured, supportive techniques. At Center for Hope and Renewal, therapists tailor approaches to help clients rebuild emotional resilience and regain a sense of control.
When should a family consider family therapy?
Family therapy is helpful when communication breaks down, behavioral challenges arise, or stressors like school pressures, parenting conflicts, or trauma impact relationships. It's also beneficial for multi-generational living situations common in Jersey City. At Center for Hope and Renewal, evidence-based family systems approaches create a safe space for all members to express needs and strengthen bonds.
Can teens attend therapy sessions without their parents?
Yes, teen counseling typically includes confidential one-on-one sessions to build trust and encourage honest communication. Therapists experienced in adolescent development help teens navigate anxiety, identity concerns, and school stress. At Center for Hope and Renewal, parents receive guidance on supporting their teen's progress while respecting privacy and therapeutic boundaries.
What are the benefits of group therapy compared to individual sessions?
Group therapy offers peer support, reduces isolation, and helps clients realize they're not alone in their struggles. It complements individual therapy by building community connection and shared coping strategies. At Center for Hope and Renewal, licensed clinicians facilitate groups addressing anxiety, depression, identity exploration, and trauma recovery in Jersey City and virtually.
How do therapists help children build emotional vocabulary?
Child counselors use play-based and expressive techniques to help children identify and name their feelings in developmentally appropriate ways. This builds resilience, confidence, and healthier emotional regulation. At Center for Hope and Renewal, therapists also guide parents on strengthening supportive routines at home to reinforce progress.
Does eating-disorder therapy include family involvement?
Yes, family involvement can be clinically beneficial, especially for teens, as it helps address relational patterns and creates a supportive home environment. At Center for Hope and Renewal, therapy is culturally informed, non-judgmental, and focuses on long-term healing, healthy coping, and rebuilding body trust for both individuals and families.
What makes LGBTQIA+ counseling different from general therapy?
LGBTQIA+ counseling is identity-affirming and addresses unique challenges like minority stress, family acceptance, and navigating cultural expectations. Therapists trained in intersectional and culturally responsive approaches create a safe space for identity exploration. At Center for Hope and Renewal, clinicians serve the diverse Jersey City community with sensitivity and clinical expertise.
Is telehealth therapy as effective as in-person sessions?
Yes, telehealth provides the same clinical quality as in-person therapy when conducted by licensed therapists using secure, HIPAA-compliant platforms. It reduces commute barriers and supports continuity of care for busy clients in areas like Hoboken, Brooklyn, and NYC. At Center for Hope and Renewal, virtual sessions offer flexibility without compromising treatment outcomes.
How does therapy address stress from commuter lifestyles in Jersey City?
Therapists help clients develop coping strategies for fast-paced urban living, career pressures, and work-life balance challenges common among commuters. Sessions incorporate mindfulness, emotional regulation, and structured problem-solving. At Center for Hope and Renewal, the Jersey City office is conveniently located near transit hubs, and telehealth offers added flexibility.
What's the biggest mistake people make when starting couples therapy?
Many couples wait too long, allowing resentment and communication breakdowns to deepen before seeking help. Starting early makes rebuilding connection and empathy much easier. At Center for Hope and Renewal, therapists guide couples through perspective-taking and structured problem-solving to restore closeness, whether in-person or via telehealth.
Can therapy help with school-related anxiety in high-performing districts?
Yes, therapy addresses academic pressure, perfectionism, social stress, and emotional regulation challenges common in competitive school environments around Jersey City. Therapists integrate coping strategies tailored to teens and children navigating these demands. At Center for Hope and Renewal, both in-person and online sessions support students and their families.

Does CHR accept insurance for therapy?
Yes we do! We accept Blue Cross Blue Shield, Horizon, Empire, Anthem, United Healthcare, Aetna, AmeriHealth, Magellan, Cigna/Evernorth Behavioral Health and we are also an Out of Network Provider.
We also have a reduced fee/sliding fee scale program that is offered to clients based on income and availability within the program. Please reach out to inquire about space for the program.
How do I make an appointment as a new client for therapy?
Appointments for new clients can be made a number of ways.

Call us at 551-349-1727

Email us at frontdesk@centerforhopeandrenewal.com
Use our “Contact Us” link to request a followup.
Book directly online on our website here.

When inquiring, please specify the therapist you’re interested in working with or provide a brief summary of areas you’re looking to work on and we will provide a recommendation for a therapist based on their background and expertise.
Is therapy at CHR done virtually or in person?
Each of our therapists have predetermined in office days and offers telehealth sessions outside of those in office days. In office sessions are conducted at our office in Downtown Jersey City. Depending on which day you see your therapist, you will meet with them virtually or in office. If you prefer in office sessions, but your therapist does not have in office openings at the initiation of sessions, clients are welcome to notify their therapist that they prefer in person sessions and your therapist will notify you as soon as an in office spot opens up.
What happens after I confirm my first appointment with a therapist?
CHR will register you in our system and email you a registration link for your patient portal.
Once registered for your patient portal, there will be a total of 12 initial intake forms that will require your review and signature BEFORE your first appointment.
If your appointment is confirmed to be virtual, we will email you the link to the session 48 hours prior to the appointment.
Please keep in mind that you will receive a new link to each session and past links can not be reused.
How do I pay for my therapy sessions?
Client balances can be paid using a credit card on your patient portal or by calling the front office at (551) 349-1727 and providing the payment information.
Payments can also be made by check. Checks should be made out to “Center for Hope and Renewal” and sent to 264 Newark Ave, Jersey City NJ.
We also accept HSA and FSA cards through your patient portal.
Statements are sent to the home address on file as well as available on your patient portal.
If you do not want paper statements mailed to your address, please send a written request to our office at frontdesk@centerforhopeandrenewal.com.
Where is the CHR office located?
Our office is located in the heart of Jersey City, NJ. We are a 5-8 minute walk from the Grove St. PATH station making us easily accessible to clients from surrounding areas like Hoboken and Bayonne. Once arriving at 264 Newark Ave, buzz the bell labelled "CHR". One of our team members will buzz you in. Please do not arrived more than 5 minutes before your appointment as our therapists may all still be in sessions and unable to buzz you in.

Other businesses located around the office in Jersey City are:

We are located on the floor above “Jersey City Gold Buyers”
We are located across the street from “Salon 17”
We are located across the street and 1 block from “Kaffa Espresso Bar”
We are 2 blocks from “Gussy’s Cafe”.
Can I work with a new therapist at CHR?
Yes, at CHR we take client-therapist matching very seriously. Our intake coordinator takes care in working with new clients in matching them with the best fit in their therapist at CHR. Our intake coordinator will work with you in understanding the areas a client would like to address and make recommendations depending on therapists' specialities. However, if you do not think the therapist you were matched with is the best fit, we are happy to discuss transitioning you to another CHR therapist that may be a better fit. The therapeutic relationship is ultimately a collaborative partnership. A healthy therapeutic relationship makes you feel safe, respected, understood and ultimately you feel like progress towards your treatment goals are being made. It can also be as simple as "vibe"/intuition and personality compatibility. If you are unsure if your therapist is the right fit for you, we encourage you to process this with your therapist or if you do not feel comfortable processing it with your therapist, give our intake coordinator a call and they will be happy to review it with you to make sure you're getting the best possible care.
How do I cancel a therapy appointment?
Cancellation requests can be made on the patient portal, by calling the front desk, or by emailing your therapist. Please keep in mind that CHR has a 24 hour cancellation policy and if the session is cancelled with less than 24 hours notice, the client is subject to a cancellation fee.
Can I reschedule my appointment?
If you need to cancel your appointment but interested in rescheduling with your therapist for the same week, please reach out to your therapist directly and they will follow-up with their availability, if any for the week.

How can therapy help me?
Therapy can help you by giving you a safe, judgment-free space to talk through what’s weighing on your mind and understand yourself better. A trained therapist helps you untangle overwhelming thoughts, learn practical skills to manage stress and emotions, and break patterns that aren’t serving you. It’s not about being “broken” — it’s about having support, clarity, and tools so you can feel more in control, improve your relationships, and handle life with more confidence.
Can I speak with a therapist before I confirm an appointment?
CHR is happy to offer a consultation with a CHR Supervisor who can answer any questions you have about therapy and the overall process. During your first session (the intake), your therapist will complete a psychosocial assessment to learn about your background. This is also your chance to ask questions, start building rapport, and get a sense of whether the therapist feels like a good fit for you.
How long will I be in therapy?
Ultimately, the length of therapy depends on your goals, your pace, and what feels most helpful for you. You and your therapist can check in regularly to see what’s working and whether you want to continue, adjust, or wrap up.
There’s no single “right” length of time for therapy, but here’s a helpful general guideline:

Short-term therapy: Many people attend for 8–16 sessions (about 2–4 months) when they have a specific concern or goal.
Medium-term therapy: Some continue for 6–12 months to work through deeper patterns or challenges in multiple areas of life.
Long-term therapy: Others stay in therapy for a year or more, especially if they find ongoing support helpful or are working through complex or long-standing issues.
How often do I meet with my therapist?
Therapy works best when it’s consistent. Most clients start with weekly sessions, and once meaningful progress has been made, many (not all) transition to biweekly sessions. This gives you time to practice the skills you’ve learned and get comfortable with less frequent support. From there, the goal is usually to work toward “graduating” from therapy, though some people choose to remain on a biweekly schedule for a longer period if that feels right for them. CHR does not offer monthly sessions.
What can I expect during my first intake session?
An intake session is your first meeting with your therapist, and its main purpose is to help them get to know you and understand what brought you to therapy. You can expect your therapist to ask questions about your background, current concerns, mental health history, daily life, and what you hope to get out of therapy. They may also go over confidentiality, attendance expectations, how sessions work, and answer any questions you have.
It’s also your chance to get a feel for the therapist’s style, start building comfort and trust, and decide whether they’re a good fit for you. It’s normal to feel a little nervous—your therapist knows this and will guide the conversation at a pace that feels manageable.
How long are therapy sessions?
Sessions are typically 50 minutes, but some clients may have 60-minute sessions. Longer sessions are reserved for those experiencing more acute or distressing issues that require additional time and space with their therapist. Duration of session and clinical need is determined by your therapist.
What areas can your therapists help me with and specialize in?
A mental health therapist can help you with a wide range of challenges, including, but not limited to:

Managing stress
Anxiety
Depression
Improving self-esteem
Working through past experiences or trauma
Navigating relationship issues
Coping with life changes
Building healthier habits and coping skills.
OCD
ADHD
Eating disorders

They provide support, tools, and perspective to help you understand yourself better, break unhelpful patterns, and feel more grounded and in control of your life.
Can I talk to my therapist about anything? What can I talk about?
Yes! You can talk to your therapist about anything that’s on your mind. Therapy is a safe, confidential space designed for you to share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment.
You can talk about:

Emotions like sadness, anger, anxiety, or stress
Life challenges, relationships, or conflicts
Past experiences or trauma
Habits, coping skills, or personal goals
Decisions you’re facing or changes in your life
Anything that feels confusing, overwhelming, or important to you

Even if something feels small or unrelated, it’s worth bringing up—therapists are trained to help you explore whatever matters to you.
What is your confidentiality policy?
CHR is committed to keeping our clients’ information safe and confidential. We take it very seriously.

Our confidentiality policy means that what you share in therapy stays private. Your therapist cannot share your personal information or session details with anyone without your permission. This creates a safe space for open and honest conversation.

However, there are a few important exceptions where your therapist may be required to break confidentiality:

If there is a risk that you or someone else may be harmed
If there is suspected abuse or neglect of a child, elder, or vulnerable person
If a court orders disclosure of your records

Outside of these situations, everything you discuss is protected, allowing you to speak freely and safely.
I need evening or weekend sessions, do you offer that?
Yes! All of our therapists offer some evening and/or weekend appointments. These times are often in high demand, so we may not always have an evening or weekend slot available for new clients right away. If you’re able to start with a daytime session, let your therapist know that you prefer evenings or weekends—they can then offer you the next available opening during those times.
Do you offer telehealth sessions? And what about in person sessions?
Yes! We offer both virtual and in-person sessions. Most or the majority of our therapists have availability for both options. Virtual sessions are conducted on a HIPAA-compliant platform, and in-person sessions take place at our office in downtown Jersey City, located at 264 Newark Ave.

What is virtual therapy?
Virtual therapy is a type of telehealth specifically for mental health. It lets you meet with your therapist online through a secure, private video platform. Virtual therapy works just like in-person sessions—you can talk about your thoughts, feelings, and challenges, learn coping skills, and work toward your goals—but from the comfort of your home or another private space. It’s convenient, safe, and fully confidential.
Is virtual therapy as effective as in person therapy?
Yes — for many people, virtual therapy can be effective. Research shows it often delivers results similar to in-person therapy.

Why is CHR a better option than large teletherapy companies like BetterHelp?
CHR provides long-term, consistent care, whereas large teletherapy companies like BetterHelp and GROW often experience high therapist turnover. Our therapists stay on the team for years, allowing clients to build and maintain steady, meaningful therapeutic relationships.
Our management team carefully handpicks each therapist, evaluating experience, specialties, client fit, and ability to engage effectively. In contrast, large teletherapy companies typically have less rigorous screening, hiring many applicants with minimal vetting for skill or experience.
CHR pays our therapists fair, competitive rates, which supports manageable caseloads and prevents burnout. Large teletherapy companies often underpay their therapists, leading to overworked providers and potentially lower quality care.
We provide customized treatment plans tailored to each client’s unique needs and life circumstances. Large teletherapy companies, by contrast, tend to use standardized, “one-size-fits-all” approaches that may not address the uniqueness of each person.
At CHR, we take a team-based approach. Our therapists meet with a supervisor or consultant at least twice a month—and often weekly—to ensure the highest quality of care. Multiple professionals contribute to thinking about your current and future treatment. Large teletherapy companies typically do not offer consistent supervision or consultation, meaning your therapist may lack a “soundboard” to explore additional options and interventions.

Frequently Asked Questions