FAQs

  • The first session is called an intake session and will feel much different than other sessions. During the intake, I will ask you many questions about what’s bringing you in and your history. We’ll end by exploring your goals and a plan for our work together.

  • My fee is comparable to other psychologists in the Bay Area. Please contact me for details.

    You have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” explaining how much your medical and mental health care will cost.

    Under California law, health care providers need to give patients who don’t have insurance or who are not using insurance an estimate of the expected charges for medical services, including psychotherapy services.

    You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency healthcare services, including psychotherapy services. You can ask your health care provider, and any other provider you choose, for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule a service.

    If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can dispute the bill. Make sure to save a copy or picture of your Good Faith Estimate.

    For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises

  • Individual therapy sessions are approximately 45-50 minutes in length. EMDR sessions can range from 50-90 minutes, or occur twice per week.

  • Sessions typically occur on a weekly basis.

  • You will need to be physically located in the state of California for our sessions. Ideally, you are in a confidential space where you can speak freely and be free from distraction.

  • It’s most helpful to prepare as you would for an in-person session. Therapy works best with a quiet, private space where you are able to speak freely and not be distracted. A strong internet connection and a video camera are also needed. It’s helpful to have a pen and paper on hand for notes and insights. Some people also find it helpful to keep a grounding or comforting object nearby, along with a glass of water. Please refrain from using drugs or alcohol prior to or during therapy sessions.

  • Yes! I use a HIPPA compliant and HITRUST certified program called Simple Practice. You can learn more by visiting https://www.simplepractice.com/features/security/

  • Evidence-based treatment refers to treatment that is backed by scientific evidence. In other words, extensive research and peer review has been done to determine that a treatment works.

  • Finding the right fit is very important! It’s helpful to choose someone who has training in your area of need, who hears and validates you, who creates a safe space, and who can meet your availability. I encourage potential clients to try out at least three therapy sessions before deciding a therapist is not the right fit. I often like to check in on our therapeutic alliance and am open to feedback.

  • I am out-of-network with most insurance plans, but I can provide you with an itemized bill that you can submit for reimbursement. I recommend looking into your insurance company’s mental health reimbursement policy. Most mental health plans reimburse a portion of the hourly fee.

  • Given the virtual nature of our work, I primarily accept credit, debit, or HSA/FSA cards. Payments can be made through the Simple Practice program that I use. The program is HIPPA compliant and HITRUST certified - rest assured your information will be protected with bank-level security.

  • It depends! Many people experience some relief after the first session. Full improvement depends on symptom severity, history, motivation, trust, and willingness to make holistic changes. It is also common to feel a bit worse before you start to feel better - this is often related to increased acceptance rather than avoidance and rejection of painful emotions and experiences. Becoming the best version of yourself is hard work - and 100% worth it.

  • I require 48 hours notice to cancel or reschedule an appointment. If an appointment is cancelled less than 48 hours in advance or if a client does not show to a scheduled appointment, then the client will be responsible for the full session fee.