Frequently Asked Questions

The first session is a chance for us to get to know each other. I'll ask about what brings you to therapy, your personal history, and your goals. It's also your opportunity to get a feel for what working together would be like.

You don't need to have everything figured out. Many people feel a little nervous at first, and that's completely normal. By the end of the session, we'll have a sense of whether we're a good fit and what therapy might look like going forward.

It depends on what you're working through. Some clients find meaningful relief in 12 to 16 sessions; others work together for a year or more. Most people meet weekly at the start, then shift to biweekly as things progress.

You're always in control of the pace and duration. We'll regularly check in on how things are going and adjust as needed.

I am a private pay therapist and do not bill insurance directly. However, if you have out-of-network mental health benefits, I can provide a monthly superbill you can submit for possible reimbursement. I recommend calling the member services number on your insurance card to ask about your out-of-network coverage before we begin.

A limited number of sliding scale spots are available. See the fees section for more information, or bring it up during our free consultation.

I require at least 24 hours notice to cancel or reschedule. Sessions cancelled with less than 24 hours notice, or missed without notice, are charged the full session fee.

I understand that life happens. If something urgent comes up, please reach out as soon as possible and we can discuss. My policy is applied with good judgment, not rigidity.

Yes. Everything you share is protected by strict confidentiality laws. As a licensed therapist in California, I am legally and ethically bound to keep our sessions private.

There are narrow exceptions where I am legally required to act, including if you are in imminent danger of harming yourself or someone else, or if there is information about abuse or neglect of a minor, elder, or dependent adult. I'll review all of this in detail during our first session.

Yes. I believe financial circumstances shouldn't prevent someone from accessing good mental health care. I keep a limited number of sliding scale spots available for clients who would otherwise be unable to afford therapy at my standard rate of $200 per session.

If cost is a concern, please bring it up during our free consultation. We can have an honest, judgment-free conversation about what may be possible.