Frequently Asked Questions
I know starting therapy comes with a lot of questions. Here are answers to the ones I hear most often.
What should I expect in the first session?
The first session is about getting to know each other. I'll ask about what brought you to therapy, your goals, and your background. You'll have a chance to ask me questions too. There's no pressure to dive into anything deep right away — we move at your pace.
Do you accept insurance?
I don't bill insurance directly. Superbills are available for PPO reimbursement — I can provide a detailed invoice you can submit to your insurance company for potential out-of-network mental health benefits. I recommend calling your insurance ahead of time to ask about your out-of-network benefits.
How much does therapy cost?
My standard fee is $185 per session. Sliding-scale and reduced-fee options are available for clients who need them — I'm happy to discuss during our free 15-minute consultation. Under the No Surprises Act, you also have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate of expected charges before starting treatment.
How does telehealth therapy work?
Telehealth sessions happen over a secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform through SimplePractice. All you need is a private space, a stable internet connection, and a device with a camera. Telehealth is available for anyone located in California.
How do I know if therapy is right for my teen?
If your teen is struggling with anxiety, mood changes, withdrawal from friends or activities, academic decline, or emotional outbursts that feel out of proportion, therapy can help. You don't need to wait for a crisis — early support often leads to better outcomes. If you're unsure, a consultation can help us figure out the best path forward.
What is SPACE and how does it help parents?
SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) is an evidence-based program developed at the Yale Child Study Center. It works with parents directly to reduce childhood anxiety — even when the child isn't in therapy. SPACE helps parents identify and change accommodation patterns that unintentionally maintain anxiety, empowering the whole family to break the cycle.
What is EMDR therapy?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a structured therapy that helps people process traumatic or distressing experiences. It uses guided eye movements to help the brain reprocess stuck memories, reducing their emotional intensity. It's one of the most researched treatments for trauma and PTSD.
How long does therapy typically last?
It depends on your goals and what you're working through. Some people benefit from a few months of focused work, while others prefer longer-term support. We'll regularly check in on your progress and adjust as needed. You're always in control of how long you continue.
What's the difference between a therapist, psychologist, and psychiatrist?
A therapist (like a Marriage and Family Therapist) provides talk therapy and is trained in treating emotional, relational, and behavioral concerns. A psychologist has a doctoral degree and may also provide therapy and psychological testing. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can prescribe medication. Many people work with a therapist and a psychiatrist together for a combined approach.