Frequently Asked Questions

  • you're experiencing persistent feelings of sadness or anxiety, facing difficult life transitions, dealing with relationship issues, or simply feeling stuck and unsure about how to move forward in your life.

  • It's important to research therapists who specialize in the issues you're dealing with. Look for licensed professionals and consider their therapeutic approach, background, and reviews. Many therapists, including myself, offer a free initial consultation, which can be a great way to see if you feel comfortable with them.

  • The first session is generally used to gather information about you and what brings you to therapy. It's an opportunity for both you and me to decide if it's a good fit. You'll discuss your goals for therapy and any immediate concerns that you'd like to address.

  • Click here or contact me by phone or email to schedule your no-fee 15-minute introduction to me

  • Evidence-based practice in psychology refers to research-based treatments that are tailored to meet people’s individual needs, preferences, and cultural expectations. These research-based treatment methods have been rigorously tested in randomized, controlled trials or a series of case studies, and have demonstrated effective outcomes.

    When providing evidence-based mental health care, I rely on my training and clinical judgment, consider what the research literature says is helpful for the presenting problem, and account for your unique values, culture, and preferences before deciding what therapeutic techniques to use.

    My practice focuses on using methods from these therapy modalities:

    Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

    Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

    Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)

    Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Emotionally Focused Family Therapy (EFFT)

    Motivational Interviewing

  • I am currently considered an in-network provider with Aetna, Optum, and Cigna, and an “out-of-network” provider with other insurance plans, which means I do not work directly with any insurance companies.

    I can provide a monthly "super bill" or any other documentation your insurance plan requires, and depending on the policies for reimbursement from your insurance policy, you may be reimbursed partly or in full for for mental health services.

    I would encourage you to call your insurance provider to see what can be covered for out-of-network mental health services. Asking the following questions could be helpful:

    How much coverage is available for out-of-network providers? For example, does the insurance company reimburse the full fee or a portion of the full fee?

    What is the deductible (the amount you must pay first before you are eligible for reimbursement of fees)?

    Does the insurance company limit the total number of visits or sessions per calendar year? If yes, what is the total number of sessions per calendar year?

    Does the insurance company limit the total amount reimbursed per session? If so, ask how much they reimburse for the following CPT Codes, otherwise known as procedure codes. Please be sure to ask about telehealth sessions, in addition to in-person sessions:

    90791 (integrated biopsychosocial assessment, including history, mental status, and recommendations)

    90834 (typical 45-minute session)

    90837 (an extended session of 60-minutes)

    90847 (family psychotherapy with patient present)

    90846 (family psychotherapy without patient present)

  • The length of therapy varies widely depending on the individual, their goals, and the specific issues being addressed. Some people see improvements in a few sessions, while others may engage in therapy for months or even years. It's a personal journey, and progress can take time.

  • Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can prescribe medication and often focus on managing mental health disorders through a medical lens. Psychologists typically hold a doctoral degree in psychology and focus on psychotherapy and testing psychological function. Therapists and counselors may have various degrees and licenses but primarily offer psychotherapy services.

  • Costs vary widely depending on the therapist's qualifications, location, and whether they accept insurance. Some therapists offer a sliding scale fee based on income. It's important to ask about costs upfront to avoid any surprises. For example, my private pay rate is $200 per 50-minute session. I do offer sliding scale services if there are personal financial concerns about the rate.

  • It's important to feel comfortable and understood by your therapist. If you don't feel a connection, it's perfectly okay to look for someone else. A good therapist will understand and may even provide recommendations.

  • Yes, with a few exceptions related to immediate threats of harm to yourself or others, child abuse, and a few other specific legal situations. Otherwise, what you discuss in therapy is confidential and protected by privacy laws.

  • Yes, I currently offer only teletherapy sessions. Online therapy can be just as effective as in-person sessions for many people and offers the convenience of being accessible from anywhere.

  • It can be helpful to think about what you want to achieve in therapy and any specific issues you'd like to address. Writing down your thoughts, feelings, and any questions you have for your therapist can also prepare you for your sessions.