Psychotherapy FAQs


What if I am unsure about starting treatment?

Many people find that a conversation with a psychotherapist is helpful in making this decision. The Institute invites you to call the clinic for an appointment to discuss any questions or concerns you may have.

What if I am in a crisis or there is an emergency?

Call the nearest hospital or go to the emergency room as soon as possible.

How long will I have to wait for a therapist to be assigned?

Psychotherapists are usually assigned within a week of receipt of your application.

How long are the sessions?

Psychotherapy sessions last between 45-50 minutes.

What if I do not feel comfortable or do not like the therapist?

You may request a new psychotherapist. The clinic wants to make sure you are comfortable with the clinician.

How is the fee set and do you take insurance?

Mental health care benefits vary depending on the type of insurance you have. The best way to determine whether your treatment at the Institute will be covered is to contact the insurance provider directly. Tell them you will be seen by an “”out of network”” psychotherapist and that each session will last between 45 – 50 minutes. (You may also be asked for the “”procedure code”” for your treatment. The code for the first session is always 90791. The procedure code for subsequent 45-minute sessions is 90834.) Once you have obtained information about coverage, the fee will be set based on our sliding scale guidelines, which are designed to make care affordable.

We are unable to bill Medicaid or SSI. If you have this coverage, please call the clinic for a referral.

What if I have more questions?

Do not hesitate to call the Institute clinic at (212) 873-7070.

How do I start the process?

Please complete the clinic application online or download a copy and send it to the William Alanson White Institute, Clinical Services, 20 West 74th Street, New York, NY 10023. You may also call the clinic administrator, Ms. Leila Sosa, at (212) 873-7070, or email her at l.sosa@wawhite.org for more information. Once your application is received, we make every effort to contact you within a week.

In all our interactions with people seeking care, the Institute exercises strict privacy and confidentiality.

William Alanson White Institute of Psychiatry, Psychoanalysis & Psychology 20 West 74th Street, New York, NY 10023 | (212) 873-0725