Contact Me
My goal in the work I do is to help people move on from feeling stuck in rigid and limiting ways of living. I am looking forward to working together.
Billy possesses a keen clinical understanding that offers a deep and loving approach to challenging clinical dilemmas. He approaches his work as an invitation into self-reflection using humor and storytelling. His ability to create a compassionate, thoughtful and intellectual space that brings gravitas to the work of healing is truly a joy to know and experience.
– Shalini Schaeffer, LCSW
Red Hook Family Counseling Services
Contact Info
- (201) 463-6029
- billy@billybensonlcsw.com
- 70 Park Street Suite 310 – Office 2 Montclair, NJ 07042
- Psychology Today Profile
Answering your Questions
I hear therapy is helpful, and I’d like to start. But I’m not sure what I need help with.
Yes! These conversations have the potential to invite topics that are latent at the start. Initially, we will spend time discussing who you are and how you understand you’ve become the person you are.
Are you able to prescribe medication?
No, though I am able to refer you to psychiatrists and other prescribing physicians. Regardless, your ideas about medication are worth our exploration.
Are you a member of a practice?
No. I am a sole practitioner. I am linked with a vast network of other providers through which I can seek additional support and offer referrals.
If we decide the therapeutic relationship is not a good fit, what can we do?
Your confidence in the fit between you and your provider is an important indicator of therapeutic success. I will gladly provide you with referrals to other psychotherapists.
Is therapy right for everybody?
I’d like to say “Yes!” However, therapy might not be right at the moment. Personal growth and fulfillment can occur in many different settings – at home, work, a religious institution, hiking, listening to music, talking with a friend, reading, etc.
The better question to ask is “when is therapy right for me?” I’d be happy to discuss this question and your answer further with you.
Are you the right therapist for everyone?
I’d like to say “Yes!” However, that would be hubris. My understanding and abilities are limited by my lived and learned experiences.
It’s important for you as a client to decide if I might be a good fit for you. We can schedule an initial consultation to assist your determination.
How does therapy end? Will I know when I’m ready?
Good therapy can happen in a single session, and over years. Each therapy is different in that way. We will discuss your progress towards meeting goals as we go.
Endings can be difficult, regardless. Our ending will be a joint decision, in which we go our separate paths. Those paths may end up converging again, should you want a future session or therapy.
Are you able to diagnose?
As an LCSW, I am able to provide a diagnosis should you hope to be reimbursed by your insurance company for our work together. Upon a request of such, I will be curious to better understand what the diagnosis might mean to you.
There are certainly pros and cons of labeling – diagnostic or otherwise. If you decide it would be helpful to have, I will provide the least stigmatizing diagnosis that fits your circumstances.