Guides
Guides for Moms and Families
Clear answers for the questions that come before a first appointment.
A Place to Start
You can ask without knowing all the terms.
I am Michelle Riganti, LMSW, a licensed social worker and a mother of four. I wrote these guides for the questions that can make reaching out feel more complicated than it needs to be.
You may be comparing types of support, thinking about your teen or trying to understand insurance paperwork. Start with the question closest to your life. You do not need to read everything before we talk.
Choose a Question
Guides for the Decisions Ahead
Therapist or Life Coach: Which Fits a Mom Right Now?
You can choose support based on what is happening, not on how well you seem to be managing.
Family Therapy or Individual Therapy for a Teen?
The first question is what needs attention, not which family member is the problem.
Online or In-Person Therapy: What Works for Busy Moms
The format should fit both your week and the kind of care you need.
CBT or DBT: What Is the Difference?
You do not need to learn therapy terms before we can talk about a difficult evening.
Baby Blues or Postpartum Depression?
You can ask for help before you have a name for what you are feeling.
What Happens in a Free Consultation
A first conversation can be simple, even when the reason for reaching out feels complicated.
Paying Privately and Using Out-of-Network Benefits
You deserve clear cost information before adding therapy to your week.
Your Priorities
The right starting point depends on what you need.
A comparison page can help you put words to a concern, but it cannot assess your situation. The choice may depend on privacy, the people involved and how much distress is affecting your day.
I offer therapy, not coaching, and I work by video only with clients located in New York State. If another setting or kind of care seems more suitable, I will say so. You can bring uncertainty to the consultation.
If you are in crisis or thinking about harming yourself, call or text 988, or call 911.
Practical Questions
Cost and timing matter, too.
Therapy needs room in your calendar and budget. Sessions are 45 to 50 minutes by video, with day, evening and weekend times to discuss. Individual therapy is $175; couples and family therapy are $195 per session.
Sessions are private pay. Superbills are available for out-of-network reimbursement, and I am in network with Northwell Direct. The payment guide explains questions to ask your plan without assuming it will cover a fee.
Questions
Before You Choose a Guide
What if several guides fit?
Can I bring these questions to you?
Are the guides medical advice?
Your questions can be the starting point.
Book a free consultation to talk about what you need and whether my work fits.