Frequently Asked Questions

  • To get started, simply fill out the contact form on this website to request a free initial consultation (15-20 minutes) over the phone or to schedule a full intake appointment.

    Before we can book your first session, you'll need to complete some intake documents. For your privacy and security, these documents will be provided through a HIPAA-compliant Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.

    Please note, initial appointments are scheduled only after these forms are completed and submitted.

  • For clients paying privately, sessions typically last 50-55 minutes.

    If you are using insurance, most plans require sessions to be 45-52 minutes due to billing guidelines. We will go over the specifics of session lengths during your intake appointment to ensure clarity and alignment with your needs.

  • In our first session, we'll talk through your background and the reasons you're seeking therapy. We'll also set some clear goals together and discuss how we’ll track your progress. I'll explain your confidentiality rights and go over the necessary paperwork. Most importantly, we’ll make sure you feel comfortable and informed, and I’ll be happy to answer any questions you have before moving forward.

  • The duration of therapy varies significantly depending on individual needs and goals. Some clients find that they achieve their objectives within just 4-6 sessions, while others may benefit from several months of therapy. Together, we will develop a personalized plan of care that outlines your goals and expectations, ensuring transparency throughout your therapeutic journey.

    To respect your time and to ensure a smooth transition, we begin planning for the end of your therapy well in advance of your last session. This approach helps us avoid a rushed discharge process and ensures a thoughtful conclusion to your therapy.

  • Insurance and Payment Information
    If you're using health insurance, the fees for sessions may vary based on your specific plan. Typically, copays range anywhere from $0 - $50. For clients with high-deductible plans, fees can range from up to $160 per session. We will discuss all fees upfront to ensure transparency. Copays and any other applicable charges are billed at the time of service.

    For an estimate of your insurance coverage, you can check your costs here. This will give you a better idea of what to expect before we move forward.

    Out-of-Pocket Fees

    • Standard 50-minute Therapy Session: $200

    • Initial Assessment: $250

  • Yes, I am in network with several insurance providers to accommodate a range of coverage options. Here are the providers I currently accept, listed in alphabetical order:

    • Aetna

    • Allied Benefit Systems - Aetna

    • AllSavers UHC

    • Anthem Blue Cross California

    • Christian Brothers Services - Aetna

    • Cigna

    • Health Plans Inc.

    • Health Scope - Aetna

    • Meritain

    • Nippon

    • Oscar

    • Oxford Health Plans

    • Surest (Formerly Bind)

    • Trustmark Health Benefits - Aetna

    • Trustmark Small Business Benefits - Aetna

    • UHC Student Resources

    • United Healthcare Shared Services

    • UnitedHealthcare

    • UnitedHealthcare Global

    • UMR

    Billing is processed securely through Alma or Headway to handle insurance claims and payments efficiently.

  • Choosing between using your insurance or paying privately for therapy is a personal decision, and both have their pros and cons.

    Insurance Benefits and Limitations:
    Insurance can help make therapy more affordable, but it comes with restrictions. Insurance companies control the length and frequency of sessions and require a mental health diagnosis, which becomes part of your permanent medical record. They may also request access to your therapy records to assess progress, which can impact your privacy. Additionally, they decide if you qualify for further sessions based on their own criteria.

    Private Pay Benefits:
    Opting to pay privately gives you more freedom and flexibility. You can schedule sessions based on what you need, without being limited by an insurance provider's criteria. There’s no requirement for a diagnosis, and we can tailor our sessions solely around your goals and progress, with no external limitations.

    How to Proceed:
    If you choose to use your insurance, contact your provider to confirm your benefits. For private pay, you can begin therapy more quickly with fewer prerequisites. If using insurance, I’ll send you a link for Alma or Headway to verify your insurance before scheduling your first session.

    During our initial consultation, we can discuss the best option for you, so you can make an informed decision that aligns with your personal goals and therapy needs.

  • I aim to respond to messages and inquiries within one business day. However, I am not available for immediate or emergency responses outside of regular business hours. If you're facing a psychiatric emergency, please call 911 or visit your nearest emergency room right away.

  • Appointments must be cancelled within 24 hours. If an appointment is canceled with less than 24 hours notice, you will be charged the full session fee.

  • You’re ready to conclude therapy when the skills we’ve worked on become second nature, and you feel confident managing life's challenges on your own. Throughout our work together, we’ll regularly review your progress and make adjustments as needed. Deciding to finish therapy is a collaborative process, and we’ll work together to determine when you’re ready to move on.