Jeff Russ
Psychologist
Jeff RussPhD
PhD, Walden University, 2011
Call and we’ll let you know if Jeff is taking new clients.
and most major plans
Meet Jeff
My experience ranges from seniors who have recently lost a loved one, to seniors who are dealing with marital issues which may have existed for fifty years. I have worked with seniors, who are very immobile and wanting to increase their inertia, as well as individuals, who have the energy of people who are many years younger. With my personal background in addictions, I have assisted seniors in learning or rediscovering healthy coping mechanisms.
First of all, I am senior, so we all have a common ground from a common health.
Q&A with Jeff
Getting to know Jeff
What do you enjoy most about working with older adults?
First of all, I am senior, so we all have a common ground from a common health. Many of us are facing existential, health, financial, and grief issues. The are common issues for all of us in this peer group. If we are all dealing with similar issues, it becomes very enjoyable to assist with mutual support, understanding, guidance, and direction.
Why does online therapy work well for older adults?
Online therapy is effective for everyone in that body language can be seen as a part of mutual understanding. This also assists individuals, who may have limited mobility or located in more remote communities, to have access to counseling. Some families are not particularly understanding of the individual need for senior living, online therapy with another senior can be very validating and sometimes more validating than what families offer.
How do you approach therapy sessions?
Utilizing a short-term solution-focused approach to therapy, I employ motivational interviewing techniques to assist my patients in guiding their own treatment through the establishment of clear, monitorable, measurable, and attainable goals. My knowledge and personal experience with addictions has assisted many individuals to develop new life paths. My goal in life is "to help people help themselves."
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.