David Jou, LCSW & CASAC
I offer psychoanalytic psychotherapy with a focus on inclusive treatment to all BIPOC folx.
My approach to therapy can help make positive change in your life with treatment that is empathetic, inclusive, and analytically informed. I work from a non-judgemental stance since I understand how difficult it can be to express vulnerabilities to another. I have extensive experience working in harm reduction as well as helping those who struggle with issues related to trauma, interpersonal issues related to family, race, personality disorders, and other behavioral health issues.
WHAT TO EXPECT
What happens first?
We will arrange to speak by phone or video where we will discuss what brings you to therapy and decide if we would like to work with each other. This first session is about getting to know you, and how we can work together toward positive change.
How often do I come to therapy?
Most people find that attending at least once a week is most helpful. Others find that more frequent sessions (3 or more sessions a week) is needed to help them. During our consultation we will discuss the best approach. Increasing the frequency of sessions can happen once therapy starts as needed.
How long are sessions?
Sessions are 45-minutes, if you use insurance sessions are normally 60-minutes. Please note if you arrive late to your appointment, you will have a shorter session.
Do you do video and in-person sessions?
I’m currently only offering video sessions for people in New York. In-person sessions will be forthcoming.
What if I need to cancel my session or reschedule?
I have a 48-hour cancellation policy. Less than 48-hour notice means you will be charged the full cost of your session (as insurance will not cover the expense in your absence). I do my best to accommodate rescheduling within the same week. Up to 3 unexcused cancellations are allowed per year. More than 3 unexcused cancellations will mean that you will be responsible for the full costs for further missed sessions.
Regular attendance is important to maintain the quality and continuity of your care and allows me to offer the best service I can to help you.
ABOUT ME
Psychotherapy should be accessible to everyone. I believe it should be inclusive, culturally sensitive, and be mindful about how difficult it can be to share one’s vulnerabilities with another.
My background is as a social worker working in the community. My training is culturally informed with familiarity with working with diverse races, ethnicity, cultures, backgrounds, and the ambiguities that can lead these issues to not quite fit into one category.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who graduated from New York University with a Master’s degree in social work. I have nine years of experience working in substance use treatment at various levels of care as a Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor. I am currently a psychoanalytic training candidate with the Institute for the Psychoanalytic Study of Subjectivity.
COST OF THERAPY
Will my health insurance plan cover therapy?
I am currently offering therapy to people with insurance through Headway. They accept Oscar, United Healthcare, Oxford, Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, and Aetna insurances as well as offer out-of-network care. To receive treatment using your health insurance you need to sign up through their website. I can walk you through this process.
If insurance doesn’t cover therapy, how much will I have to pay?
I believe in offering affordable therapy and work with a range of fees. I do not want money to limit treatment especially if we mutually agree that I can best help you. I understand that therapy is a costly investment in time, money, and energy. Part of treatment is about developing a relationship with a helping professional and transparency about livelihood on both sides is part of that. I am willing to discuss these matters further once we agree to start treatment.
YOUR PRIVACY AND SAFETY
Laws protect the relationship between a client and a psychotherapist, and information cannot be disclosed without written permission. I do not disclose any information discussed in therapy without consent.
However, as a social worker I am a mandated reporter who is required to report suspected child abuse or maltreatment when they are presented with a reasonable cause.
If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person, I must notify the police and inform the intended victim.
If a client intends to harm themselves, I will make every effort to enlist their cooperation in ensuring their safety. If they do not cooperate, I will take further measures without their permission that are provided to me by law in order to ensure their safety.
CONTACT
Call me at 718-618-4529 or email therapy@davidjou.com for a consultation.
Headway
Psychology Today
Therapy Den
Asian Mental Health Collective