Ingrid Shadow
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Ingrid ShadowMSW, LCSW
MSW, Rutgers University, 1999
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Since I was a little girl, I remember listening to the stories my grandparents, great aunts and those older than me shared.
Q&A with Ingrid
Getting to know Ingrid
What do you enjoy most about working with older adults?
Since I was a little girl, I remember listening to the stories my grandparents, great aunts and those older than me shared. I always felt fascinated when learning about their experiences, wisdom and the life lessons that came along with their conversations. These positive experiences motivated me to become a therapist.
Why does online therapy work well for older adults?
Online therapy is believed to be very effective for older adults as it significantly improves accessibility to mental health care by removing barriers like transportation difficulties, physical limitations, and the need to travel to a therapist's office, allowing them to receive treatment from the comfort of their own homes, which is particularly important for seniors with mobility issues or living in remote areas; this increased access can help them address mental health concerns that they might otherwise avoid due to logistical challenges.
How do you approach therapy sessions?
My main goal during the sessions is for my clients to feel that I am respecting their life experiences, make them feel comfortable by building rapport, addressing concerns, using clear communication, and tailoring interventions to their specific needs, often incorporating life review techniques and focusing on values-based goals, while being mindful of potential cognitive changes that may require adjustments to the therapy process.
My therapeutic approach prioritizes a collaborative, client-centered environment, where I actively listen to understand your unique experiences and concerns, utilizing evidence-based strategies from various therapeutic schools to tailor a treatment plan specifically for you, focusing on building a trusting relationship to facilitate open communication and self-exploration to achieve your desired goals.
What inspired you to become a therapist?
My desire to become a therapist stemmed from a deep-rooted passion to help others navigate their challenges and improve their mental well-being. I have always felt the desire to make a meaningful difference in people's lives by fostering understanding and empowering them to reach their full potential.
What is your advice for someone starting therapy for the first time?
My advice for anyone who is starting therapy for the first time is to be open and honest with your therapist, come prepared with any concerns or goals you want to address, actively listen to your therapist's guidance, and don't be afraid to ask questions if something is unclear; remember that therapy is a collaborative process where you should feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and experiences.
What do you wish people knew about therapy?
Therapy is an opportunity to engage with a non-judgmental person whose mind is focused on understanding where you are in your life journey. It is a time to connect with a person whose main goal is to make you feel heard and supported.
As part of my self care I wake up everyday at 6:00 AM, rain or shine ,and walk approximately 4 miles. It is my time to enjoy my new day and feel grateful for everything and everyone in my life. I also enjoy traveling and learning about different cultures.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
Choose a topic. Can’t find your answer? Call our care team at 1-800-567-LIFE.
About Total Life
Who is the service for?
Our service is tailored for seniors looking to navigate the challenges of aging and aiming to make their golden years, golden.
What is the core purpose of your teletherapy service?
Our core purpose is to help as many seniors as possible access the mental health care they need, irrespective of their insurance coverage. We believe everyone deserves quality mental health care.
How is your service tailored to seniors?
Our platform is easy to use, with straightforward steps to connect you with a therapist. Additionally, our care team is always ready to assist you from start to finish.
How can teletherapy help me feel like the best version of myself?
Teletherapy provides a supportive environment to explore and address concerns, helping you work through challenges and promoting mental well-being.
How is your service different from conventional therapy?
Unlike conventional therapy, we provide access to therapy through Original Medicare coverage. Our care team facilitates a smooth process from the initial call all the way through ongoing care.
Insurance & coverage
Are your teletherapy services covered by Original Medicare?
Yes, our services are accessible through Original Medicare coverage, making mental health care more accessible for seniors.
Do you accept insurance plans other than Original Medicare?
Yes, we accept select Medicare Advantage (MA) plans. Please contact our care team to verify if your specific plan is accepted.
How do I pay for my sessions?
Payment can be made through various methods including Original Medicare coverage. Our care team can provide more detailed information based on your specific situation.
Is there a limit to the number of sessions I can have?
Original Medicare has an uncapped session limit; the number of sessions will be determined based on your individual needs and treatment plan.
What is a Superbill and how can it benefit me?
A Superbill is an itemized form that details the services you have received from us. It provides all the information needed to submit a claim to your insurance for out-of-network reimbursement.
If I have out-of-network benefits, how does the reimbursement process work?
If you have out-of-network benefits, you can submit the Superbill we provide to your insurance company for reimbursement. The reimbursement rate and process depend on your plan.
How do I obtain a Superbill for my sessions?
After each session, we can provide you with a Superbill. Our care team will assist you in generating a Superbill for your records.
Therapists & sessions
How experienced are your providers in working with older adults?
Our providers are hired specifically for their experience with older adults. They are trained and equipped to understand and address the unique mental health needs of seniors.
Can I choose my therapist?
We make every effort to match you with a therapist who has the right experience and expertise for your needs. If you have a preference, we’ll do our best to accommodate it.
What if I don’t feel a connection with my therapist?
It’s important to have a good rapport with your therapist. If for any reason you wish to change therapists, just let us know and we’ll facilitate a switch.
How is progress measured in teletherapy?
Progress is measured through regular reviews and discussions between you and your therapist, ensuring that the therapy is effective and meeting your needs.
Getting started
How quickly can I start with my therapy sessions?
Our care team is dedicated to facilitating a quick and easy process from your first phone call to setting up a therapy session on the same call.
How do I schedule a teletherapy session?
Scheduling a session is simple. Just give us a call at 1-800-567-LIFE and our care team will assist you in setting up a session on the first call itself.
Do I need any special equipment for teletherapy?
All you need is a computer, tablet, or smartphone with a camera and microphone, and a reliable internet connection. Phone-only sessions are also available.
What if I need to cancel or reschedule my appointment?
We have a flexible cancellation and rescheduling policy. Just contact our care team and they will assist you with the necessary changes.