Frequently Asked Questions

Treatment & Recovery

How long will it take to recover?

We utilize research and evidence-based modalities rooted in the neuroscience of chronic pain, neural circuit dizziness, and emotional awareness and expression. We typically see progress after 8-12 weeks of consistent work, though for some it may take longer.

Have you worked with my specific symptoms?

Our clinicians are rigorously trained and have extensive experience with neuroplastic pain and neural circuit dizziness symptoms. We work with a wide range of symptoms and conditions including:

  • Chronic pain (including back, neck, shoulder, foot, hand pain, and more)

  • Fibromyalgia

  • Migraines

  • PPPD (Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness)

  • MdDS (Mal de Débarquement Syndrome)

  • Chronic fatigue

  • Burning mouth syndrome

  • Long-COVID symptoms

For a complete list of common symptoms we treat, please visit symptomatic.me/commonsymptoms.

Do you only work with mind-body symptoms/pain?

All of our clinicians went through general therapy training in graduate school and beyond and have experience working with relationship issues, depression, anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and more.

What are your clinicians trained in?

Our clinicians receive training in:

  • Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT)

  • Emotional Awareness and Expression Therapy (EAET)

  • (Attachment-Based) Intensive Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP)

We prioritize training in research and evidence-based interventions for neuroplastic symptoms. Additionally, each clinician is provided with a robust annual budget to pursue ongoing professional development and enhance their skill set.

I've seen a lot of providers. Are you sure you can help me?

We understand you've been through the hope-disappointment cycle many times, and this is a very reasonable question. That's why we offer a free 15-20 minute phone or Zoom consultation, giving you the opportunity to get a sense of our clinicians and how they work. We book sessions week to week, with no package deals or pressure to commit.

Session Information

Are sessions virtual or in-person?

Sessions at the Mind Body Therapy Center are primarily conducted virtually using the SimplePractice telehealth platform or HIPAA-compliant Zoom (particularly for Mac users). We find that virtual sessions are just as effective as in-person sessions. For clients in Los Angeles, Daniel Gaines offers in-person sessions.

Do you suggest weekly meetings?

Yes. We find this allows enough time between sessions to implement tools and techniques while maintaining momentum in your recovery process.

Can I sit in on my child's session?

We ask that each child or adolescent has a private space for sessions. While we support collaboration between clinicians and parents, certain legal considerations regarding confidentiality apply. We're happy to discuss specific arrangements during the initial consultation.

Insurance & Payment

Do you accept insurance?

We do not accept direct insurance payments. However, our clinicians in California, Oregon, and New York can provide superbills for possible insurance reimbursement. We recommend checking with your insurance provider beforehand to verify reimbursement policies and rates.

What about Medicare reimbursement?

We are unable to provide superbills for Medicare reimbursement.

Communication Policies

What is your direct line?

We do not provide direct lines to clinicians. We give our undivided attention during your scheduled session time. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please dial 988 to reach the suicide and crisis hotline.

Do you provide therapy or coaching via email?

No. Non-verbal communication is crucial to our work, and we need to be able to interpret these cues to provide effective treatment. All therapy must be conducted during scheduled video or in-person sessions.

Additional Resources

Where can my partner learn more about neuroplastic symptoms?

We recommend checking out the Association for the Treatment of Neuroplastic Pain's "Letter to a Loved One" resource, which provides valuable information for partners and family members supporting someone with neuroplastic symptoms.

What is your experience working with OCD and chronic pain?

Several of our clinicians are cross-trained in both OCD and neuroplastic pain treatment, allowing us to provide comprehensive care for clients experiencing both conditions.

Do you only work with adults?

Jamie Shafir has extensive experience working with minors. If she is not available, our other clinicians work with youth as well on a case-by-case basis.