How do I get started?

Our first step is to schedule a free 10 -15 min call so I can answer any questions and talk scheduling, etc. Once we get scheduled, I will send you online paperwork to read, complete and sign prior to our first session.  

Our first session, I may ask a variety of questions to get a sense of you, your life, and your concerns. I’ll answer any questions you may have as well. We will talk about your goals for therapy, and how frequently we will plan to meet. After the first (or second) session, things usually become a little more conversational.

What is the cost for therapy sessions?

Cost per 55-minute session, if you are not using insurance, is $210. This cost includes any additional preparation and documentation needed for your care.

Longer sessions may be a helpful option, if appropriate to your situation. Clients sometimes find 85-minute sessions valuable for more of a deep dive. Inquire to discuss costs. 

If you are able to use your health insurance to pay for therapy session, check with your plan about your cost. I am currently in network with the following insurance plans: Aetna, Oscar, United Health Care, Oxford. If you have an insurance provider not listed above, you may still have “out of network” benefits, through which you may be able to seek reimbursement. In all cases please check with your insurance to see what your costs for therapy sessions will be. 

Some of my clients actually prefer to pay out of pocket for therapy. This keeps things incredibly simple and privateYou also may be able to use HSA/FSA funds to pay for therapy. 

I do have a limited number of spots for reduced fee (“sliding scale”) clients if you feel you cannot afford the fee. Please contact me for more information.

You are entitled to a good faith estimate of the cost of your therapy.

What states do you serve?

Currently I am able to meet with clients (online) in California and Florida. At this time I am only in-network for insurance in California. I see clients in person in San Diego, CA.

Are therapy sessions only online?

Actually, no! I’m excited to now be able to offer in-person services in San Diego on Mondays and Fridays. My office is centrally located, in the University Heights neighborhood (next to North Park, Hillcrest, Normal Heights, and Mission Valley). 

How do online therapy sessions typically work?

You will need to have a device with a camera and microphone (smart phone, laptop, tablet, etc.), a reliable internet connection, and a safe, private space (cars are fine as long as you’re parked). Your privacy is important to me, so I ask that you do not attend our sessions in public spaces, or in areas at home where family members can see or hear you. Sessions are conducted with video and audio. (Phone sessions may be occasionally appropriate if we discuss and agree ahead of time.)

Some clients like to allow for some time to themselves after session before jumping back into their day, as therapy can be hard work. Talk therapy is more akin to physical therapy than receiving a massage; you will see gains over time and build strength, and you may sometimes come out of session feeling great, but individual sessions can be tiring and at times, feel challenging.

You must always be physically in the state of California or Florida at the time of our session. 

Do you provide mental health letters for gender-affirming medical care?

Yes! Usually I am able to provide this after one session. I will be assessing to make sure you are psychologically able to consent for your own medical care, and that there are no major outstanding mental health problems that are impacting your ability to consent. It is rare that I don’t provide the letter, but it is possible.

Do you see couples, families, or children for therapy?

No, I only work with adults 18+ on an individual basis at this time. 

How often will we meet?

We will likely meet once a week, but this can vary, up to twice weekly or down to once every two weeks.  Over time, we may decide to meet less frequently, depending on your needs. Sessions are up to 55 minutes long, unless we have previously discussed an alternative timeframe. If you are interested in meeting for longer, intensive sessions, we can discuss whether that fits for our work together. Additional charges will apply for longer sessions. 

I have a question that’s not answered here. Help?

Send me your question in the contact form. Or, let’s schedule a no-obligation phone consult. Hit the button below!

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