Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
A few of the questions clients most often ask before reaching out. If you don't see your question here, please feel free to call or send a message.
What is psychodynamic psychotherapy, and how is it different from CBT?
Psychodynamic psychotherapy is an in-depth, insight-oriented approach that explores how early experiences, unconscious patterns, and the therapeutic relationship itself shape current struggles. Rather than focusing primarily on changing surface-level thoughts or behaviors — as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) typically does — psychodynamic work helps clients understand the deeper origins of recurring difficulties so that change is lasting rather than symptom-by-symptom. Many clients find that this kind of self-understanding eases anxiety, depression, and relational patterns that have been hard to shift through other approaches.
What makes therapy "LGBTQ+ affirming," and why does it matter?
LGBTQ+ affirming therapy means the therapist treats your sexual orientation, gender identity, and relationship structure as healthy variations of human experience — not as problems to be analyzed or changed. It also means the therapist has real working knowledge of the specific contexts queer clients often navigate: coming out, family rejection, internalized stigma, partnered and non-monogamous relationships, gender exploration, and the cumulative effects of minority stress. James Vincent Mahon has worked extensively with the LGBTQ+ community across Northern New Jersey and the New York metropolitan area for more than four decades.
What should I expect in a first session?
A first session is primarily a conversation. You'll be asked about what brings you in, some background about your life and relationships, and what you're hoping for from therapy. It's also your opportunity to get a sense of whether this feels like a good fit — therapy works best when there's genuine rapport. There's no pressure to share everything at once; the relationship deepens over time.
How long does therapy usually last?
It varies considerably depending on what brought you in. Some clients come for focused work on a specific issue and find meaningful progress within a few months. Others engage in longer-term psychodynamic work — often a year or more — to address deeper patterns or long-standing concerns. There's no single right answer, and the duration is something we discuss openly as the work unfolds.
Do you accept insurance?
The Center for Identity Development is an out-of-network practice. We do not bill insurance directly and do not provide superbills for reimbursement. Payment is accepted by cash or check at the time of session. A sliding scale fee is available for clients who need it — please inquire when you reach out.
Do you offer telehealth or virtual sessions?
At this time, all sessions are conducted in person at our Montclair, NJ office at 31 Trinity Place. We do not currently offer telehealth or virtual appointments. If in-person sessions in Montclair are workable for you, please reach out to discuss scheduling.
Where is your office, and what areas do you serve?
Our office is at 31 Trinity Place in Montclair, New Jersey 07042. We see clients from throughout Northern New Jersey — including Bloomfield, Glen Ridge, Verona, Upper Montclair, Cedar Grove, Nutley, Clifton, Caldwell, and the broader Essex County area — as well as clients commuting from New York City and the surrounding NY metro region.
Do you work with adolescents or only adults?
The practice primarily serves adults, including young adults, midlife, and older clients. Work with adolescents is considered on a case-by-case basis depending on the presenting concerns and the clinical fit. Please call to discuss the specific situation.
Do you offer couples and family therapy for LGBTQ+ couples?
Yes. The practice has extensive experience working with same-sex couples, queer couples, and LGBTQ+ families navigating relationship challenges, family-of-origin issues, parenting questions, and major life transitions. Couples therapy is offered for partners of all configurations.
What kinds of issues do you typically work with?
Common reasons clients seek therapy here include depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, grief and loss, relationship and intimacy difficulties, self-esteem, identity exploration, coming out, family conflict, divorce, and longer-standing concerns such as OCD, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and dissociative experiences. The work is shaped around the individual, not a fixed protocol.
What are James's credentials and training?
James Vincent Mahon, LCSW, BCD, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work. He holds a Master of Social Work from Fordham University Graduate School of Social Service and has more than 46 years of clinical experience. He is licensed to practice in both New Jersey and New York.
Is what I share in therapy confidential?
Yes. Confidentiality is fundamental to therapy and is protected by law and professional ethics. There are a small number of legally required exceptions — primarily situations involving imminent risk of serious harm to oneself or others, or suspected abuse of a child or vulnerable adult — and these are discussed openly at the start of treatment so you know exactly what they are.
How do I schedule a first appointment?
The best way to get started is to call (973) 744-6386 or use the contact form on this page. All inquiries are confidential. If we're not available when you call, please leave a message and we will return your call within one to two business days.
