Kristi West
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Kristi WestMSW, LCSW
MSW, Bryn Mawr Graduate School of Social Work and Social Research, 2011
Call and we’ll let you know if Kristi is taking new clients.
and most major plans
I consider it an honor to work with seniors as they share their life stories, which so often display amazing resilience and perseverance.
Q&A with Kristi
Getting to know Kristi
What do you enjoy most about working with older adults?
I consider it an honor to work with seniors as they share their life stories, which so often display amazing resilience and perseverance.
Why does online therapy work well for older adults?
Online therapy removes a barrier to access for so many people who find it a challenge to travel to in person sessions.
How do you approach therapy sessions?
My work with seniors includes, private companion, social worker in a nursing home, in home advanced illness medical care, Veterans issues, Hospice and Palliative Care, complicated grief and loss, and Biblical Counseling. Most of my work took place in client’s home the urban setting of Philadelphia, and Greater Philadelphia communities. I also covered several hospitals, nursing homes and assisted living communities. I worked with a team of nurses, physical therapist, occupational therapist, physicians and support practitioners such as chaplain, art therapist, and harp therapist. I also was a part of the crisis incident response team, and employee wellness team. I worked extensively with Veterans as a part of the steering committee for Veterans receiving end of life care. I also provided emotional support and guidance to family caregivers.
My approach to therapy is person centered and holistic. I believe it is important to listen deeply and to establish a rapport with the client. I believe it is through this relationship that trust is built, and then we partner together toward a vision of what the client wants his life to look like. I utilize various modalities, CBT, Nature therapy, Mindfulness, Talk Therapy; everyone one is different. If a client is interested, I incorporate a Biblical view of suffering and hope as well.
What inspired you to become a therapist?
I was inspired to become a therapist after noticing the gap in access for the clients I was honored to care for. Often these family members and patients, have endured traumatic experiences even before coming onto hospice.
I found myself navigating between the need for therapeutic interventions even before I was able to proceed to assist them with their immediate needs at hand. I want to be freed up to utilized my experience and love of nature to address the high level of stress, anxiety, and depression I witnessed in the communities I served.
What is your advice for someone starting therapy for the first time?
I am a proud mother of three accomplished adult daughters, a grand mother to two handsome boys, a poet, musician, a tree hugger for life. I am obsessed with all things books, and gardening. I am a domestic abuse survivor and activist.
I am a proud mother of three accomplished adult daughters, a grand mother to two handsome boys, a poet, musician, a tree hugger for life.
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.