Licensed Psychologist #9864 MA
JOANN TOPOROWSKI, PSY.D.
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Frequently Asked Questions


Who do you work with?
I specialize in working with high-achieving professionals, such as entrepreneurs, attorneys, and senior consultants and executives, who are successful by every outward measure but are privately struggling with burnout, overwhelm, anxiety, depression, or chronic stress.

What do you treat?
I focus on burnout, anxiety, depression, and stress management, along with related concerns like life transitions, self-esteem, and difficulty managing the demands of high-pressure careers.

What's your approach to therapy?
I integrate cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with humanistic and evidence-based practices. My goal is to give you practical tools you'll actually use in real time, not just insight, but real, sustainable change.

Do you see patients in person?
No. My entire practice is telehealth-only. All sessions, whether you're in Boston, elsewhere in Massachusetts, or in California, are conducted over a secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform. This lets me work with driven professionals wherever they are, without adding a commute to an already demanding schedule.

Do you see patients outside of Massachusetts?
Yes. I'm also licensed in California (PSY31483) and offer online therapy to California residents, including those in Beverly Hills and the San Francisco Bay Area. Learn more on my Online Therapy for California Residents page.

How long will I be in therapy?
There's no fixed timeline, but I'll be candid. Meaningful change in how you manage depression, anxiety, burnout, and stress takes real, sustained work. It's not a quick fix. With over 20 years of experience specializing in depression and anxiety, I've found that most of my patients stay in therapy for at least a year, and many stay considerably longer. I currently have patients I've worked with for anywhere from 5-10 years. If you're looking for a therapist who's in it for the long haul as your life and career continue to evolve, that's the kind of relationship I aim to build.

Do you accept insurance?
I'm an out-of-network provider and accept PPO plans. I can provide the documentation you need to seek reimbursement directly from your insurance company. I do not accept HMO plans. If you have an HMO plan, you would be responsible for the full session fee.

What are your fees?
Please visit my Fees and Office Policies page for current session rates and payment details, or contact me directly to discuss fees for your specific situation.

What's your cancellation policy?
Your appointment time is reserved specifically for you. If you don't cancel at least 24 hours in advance, you'll be responsible for the full cost of the session, as insurance companies do not reimburse for missed or late-canceled appointments.

Is what I share confidential?
Yes. Everything discussed in session is protected by law and kept confidential, with a small number of legally required exceptions (such as risk of harm to yourself or others, or suspected abuse). Full details are on my Fees and Office Policies page.

What happens on a free consultation call?
It's a brief, no-pressure phone call, usually about 15 minutes, where we talk about what's bringing you to therapy and get a sense of whether we're a good fit before you commit to anything.

How do I get started?
Call (805) 259-3427 or use the contact form to schedule your free consultation. I typically return calls and emails within 24–48 business hours.

Do you offer anything besides talk therapy?
Yes. I also offer sound therapy as a complementary approach for stress relief and nervous system regulation. You can learn more on my Sound Therapy page.