We are pleased to provide you with this comprehensive list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for family members.
If you don't see your question here, please contact us.
What are the qualifications of the counselors in this program?
The counselors are social workers, psychologists, coaches, nurses and other health professionals who have been trained in and certified to provide the NYUCI program via distance counseling. They must meet the highest ethical standards and have the appropriate licensure to offer counseling.
How do I choose a counselor?
Every NYUCI counselor has completed a profile. Look over the profiles available to you to learn about a counselor’s credentials, special training, fee schedule, available times, and what insurance he/she may accept.
Who can participate with me?
We ask that a family member participate with you, the spouse/partner caregiver. This includes anyone you consider close enough to you and/or the person with dementia to call a family member.
How do we participate together?
Family members can participate with you at home—or from anywhere, via a computer. You will all need to learn how to meet together via a computer, since your counselor will be using one to meet with you. Click here to learn more about how to use a computer for your telehealth counseling sessions and for a link to our preferred videoconferencing program, which can be downloaded free of charge.
What if none of my family members wants to participate?
The NYUCI Telehealth Dementia-Care Program for Families requires the participation of the spouse/partner caregiver and a family member. When family members have not been on good terms or have grown distant from each other, a caregiver may be concerned that they will not want to participate in the program. While it is possible that some may not want to be involved, we have found in most cases that even estranged family members welcome the opportunity to reconnect with each other and help in this difficult situation. This program provides an opportunity to put the past aside and to cooperate even though not all old wounds and resentments may be healed.
Does the person with dementia take part in the program?
The decision whether or not to include the person with dementia depends on many factors, including the desire of the caregiver to have him or her do so, and the ability of the person with dementia to participate in family sessions without being upset or interfering with the counseling process, To date, some people in the early stage of dementia have been included in one session; however, this decision be made jointly by the family and counselor, who together consider the risks and benefits of having the person with dementia attend a session.
Do you protect my privacy?
All information collected during the counseling process is kept confidential and the identity of participants will never be shared.
What if I don’t like the program? Do I have to finish it?
It is best to discuss your concerns with your counselor before you make a final decision about whether or not to stay in the program. Most problems can be resolved, and the process of doing so may yield valuable insights.
Is it free? How do I pay? Will insurance cover it?
This program in not free. The fee schedule and any insurance plans in which a counselor participates are described in the counselor’s profile.
How long is a session?
Generally, individual sessions are approximately 45-60 minutes and family sessions are about 90 minutes.
If you have additional questions, don’t hesitate to contact us.