Jessica Matthews
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Jessica MatthewsMSW, LCSW
MSW, University of New Hampshire, 2019
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Meet Jessica
Jessica Matthews is a person-centered and thoughtful therapist who specializes in helping older adults navigate the complexities of later-life transitions. She is dedicated to supporting clients dealing with grief, chronic health conditions, cognitive changes, and evolving life roles, always with a deep respect for their autonomy, dignity, and unique life stories.
I value working with older adults because I’m drawn to the depth of clinical work that comes with supporting individuals through later-life transitions.
Q&A with Jessica
Getting to know Jessica
What do you enjoy most about working with older adults?
I value working with older adults because I’m drawn to the depth of clinical work that comes with supporting individuals through later-life transitions.
This population often presents with complex, layered concerns—such as grief, chronic health conditions, cognitive changes, and shifts in identity and roles—which require a thoughtful, person-centered approach.
I especially enjoy helping clients process life transitions, strengthen emotional regulation, and adapt to change in ways that preserve their sense of autonomy, dignity, and meaning. Being a steady source of support during this time is deeply rewarding, and I find purpose in creating a space where older adults feel seen, heard, and valued.
Why does online therapy work well for older adults?
I believe online therapy is effective for older adults because it helps bridge critical gaps in care. Many older adults face barriers to accessing traditional in-person therapy—such as mobility limitations, lack of transportation, chronic health conditions, or geographic isolation.
Teletherapy allows them to receive consistent, high-quality mental health support from the comfort and safety of their own homes. I’ve found it especially impactful for clients who may have otherwise gone without care.
It creates a more equitable and accessible model, and I appreciate being part of a system that reduces obstacles and brings therapy to those who truly need it.
How do you approach therapy sessions?
I approach therapy sessions with a person-centered and collaborative mindset. I strive to create a space that is warm, nonjudgmental, and grounded in trust, where clients feel safe to explore their experiences. Clinically, I draw from evidence-based practices such as CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing, while tailoring interventions to meet the unique needs and goals of each client.
I believe in balancing structure with flexibility—offering tools and strategies while also allowing space for reflection, storytelling, and emotion. Whether we're working on symptom reduction, increasing insight, or navigating life transitions, I view therapy as a partnership. My goal is to support clients in building on their strengths, deepening self-awareness, and making meaningful progress at their own pace.
I believe every individual has strengths and the capacity to grow. My approach is holistic, integrating clinical knowledge with an understanding of each client’s physical, emotional, social, and cultural context.
I emphasize collaboration and transparency, helping clients understand interventions and actively shape their goals. I use a flexible blend of evidence-based modalities, adapting to client needs and feedback to ensure effective, personalized care.
Ultimately, I aim to foster resilience, autonomy, and self-compassion by creating a safe space where clients can explore vulnerabilities and develop skills to navigate life’s challenges with confidence.
What inspired you to become a therapist?
My inspiration to become a therapist stems from a deep desire to help people navigate life’s challenges and find greater meaning and healing. I have always been drawn to understanding human experiences and supporting others through difficult times.
Witnessing the profound impact that compassionate listening and guidance can have on individuals motivated me to pursue this path. I am passionate about empowering clients to access their inner strengths, overcome obstacles, and build fulfilling lives, and I find great purpose in being a part of their journey toward growth and well-being.
What is your advice for someone starting therapy for the first time?
My advice for someone starting therapy for the first time is to approach the process with openness and patience. It’s natural to feel uncertain or even a little nervous at the beginning, but therapy is a collaborative space designed to support you at your own pace.
Be honest about your goals and feelings, and remember that building trust with your therapist takes time. Therapy isn’t about quick fixes—it’s about gradual growth, self-discovery, and developing tools that work for you. Most importantly, be gentle with yourself throughout the journey.
It’s a brave and important step toward healing and positive change.
What do you wish people knew about therapy?
I wish more people knew that therapy is not just for crisis or severe mental illness—it’s a valuable form of self-care for anyone looking to better understand themselves, improve their relationships, or navigate life’s challenges.
Therapy is a collaborative and personal process unique to each individual, and it doesn’t follow a one-size-fits-all approach. It’s also okay to try different therapists or approaches until you find the right fit.
Most importantly, therapy is a space of acceptance and growth, where vulnerability is met with respect and support, not judgment. Seeking therapy is a courageous act of self-care and strength, not weakness.
My advice for someone starting therapy for the first time is to approach the process with openness and patience.
A fun fact about me is that I completed the Fulton Chain Hiking Challenge, which was an incredible experience that combined my passion for nature and adventure. It’s a reminder for me how important it is to connect with the outdoors and recharge, both physically and mentally.
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.









