Policies & FAQ


What to expect during your first 50-minute intake session:

In the initial session, I always conduct an intake to get a better sense of what you’d like to work on. We’ll go over your history, your identity, and your goals for therapy. We’ll be talking about any symptoms you’re experiencing, family dynamics, and how you’ve been functioning in your relationships and academic and/or work responsibilities. Getting a thorough assessment allows me to develop a treatment plan so the more honest and open you can be, the better. I know it can be scary to share and I really value your courage to show up. I go at your pace to make sure you feel safe and comfortable throughout the process. 

Insurance

I am an out-of-network therapist for PPO insurance plans. I’m happy to provide you with a statement (superbill) at the end of each month if you would like to send it to your insurance company for reimbursement of a portion of the session fee. Please feel free to contact your insurance company for information regarding benefits with an out-of-network provider. 

Payment

I accept cash, check, or credit card. I require all new clients to have a credit card on file even if you are not paying by credit card. Payment will be collected at the end of every session and I will not be able to schedule additional sessions if you have more than two outstanding payments.

Session Fee

My sessions are $250 for each 50-minute session. For couples, I do 75 minute sessions for $300. I am sometimes able to offer a sliding scale fee for clients that are unable to pay the full fee but cannot make a guarantee that I will be able to meet this request. 

Cancellation Policy

If you need to reschedule, I request that you let me know at least 24 hours before our session. If you do not show up for our session or you cancel in less than 24 hours in advance, I charge the full fee for the session. That being said, if you have a personal emergency or another immediate and unexpected situation has occurred on the day of our session, I do not charge for a late cancellation.

Client Forms

I will send you the link to the client portal if you are a new client. Please make sure that you fill out all of the documents prior to your first session. If you have any questions about any of the paperwork, we can discuss it during our first session.

Contact between sessions:

For established clients, you can reach me during normal business hours via phone. For non-urgent matters, your call will be returned in the next business day Monday through Friday. If it is an urgent matter, please leave a message and I will do my best to get in touch with you within that day. If it is a true emergency, please contact 911 as well. 

If I am away for an extended period of time, I will offer an on-call emergency contact for current clients. You are also free to email me regarding scheduling changes but clinical discussions or treatment conversations are not recommended via email. As email is often not a secure or confidential platform, sending a voicemail is preferred.

Information for client welfare:

Click here to access “Therapy Never Includes Sexual Behavior.”

NOTICE TO CONSUMERS

The Department of Consumer Affair’s Board of Psychology receives and responds to questions and complaints regarding the practice of psychology. If you have questions or complaints, you may contact the board by email at bopmail@dca.ca.gov, on the Internet at www.psychology.ca.gov, by calling 1-866-503-3221, or by writing to the following address: Board of Psychology, 1625 North Market Boulevard, Suite N-215, Sacramento, California 95834.

 

+ How would you describe your therapy style?

I treasure each and every one of the clients that I have had the opportunity to work with. Many clients would describe me as warm, motivating, and surprisingly funny at times (that’s right--not every minute in therapy has to be so serious!). I’m grateful to say that I’ve had many clients work with me for months and years because they have found our therapeutic relationship beneficial for their lives. That doesn’t mean I can’t help you solve your problems in a timely way as I’m also trained in short-term therapy. I take a client-centered approach so we’ll collaborate together to ensure we’re meeting your goals within your timeline.

+ I’m not sure you’re going to get my experience. How can I trust that we’ll connect?

I love that you’re thinking about this. You’re right--I likely haven’t lived the same experience as you, whether it relates to your race, gender, ability status, religion, or sexual orientation, as just a few examples. That being said, I’m very comfortable talking about intersecting identities and I always try to bring a sense of cultural humility into our sessions. While I never expect you to educate me about your cultural experiences (I take the time to learn outside of session), I also approach cultural integration from a place of openness and care. Your identities matter to me and all identities are welcome in my practice.

+ Do you integrate faith into your sessions?

I do identify as a Christian and I enjoy integrating faith into conversations when clients request this specifically. That being said, I never force my beliefs onto any client and I fully accept and welcome clients of all beliefs. I have worked with clients who identify as Jewish, Buddhist, Hindu, Sikh, atheist, agnostic, and more.

+ Are there any clinical presentations that you refer out?

Yes. Because I want you to get the best care possible, I refer out clients who are experiencing substance use addiction and/or severe eating disorders. I also do not work with clients who are under 12 years of age. That being said, I’m happy to connect you to referrals so that you can find the right people to help you in your journey.

+ How long does therapy take?

However long you’d like it to take! Some clients are looking for a few sessions and others are looking for more long-term support. We’ll work together to help you establish your goals and your treatment timeline.

+ How do you feel about medication?

I’m all about helping you feel empowered with the right steps for you. I believe it’s my job to always provide you with options so that you know about all the resources available to you. I’m very comfortable working with psychiatry and I am also a big believer in naturopathic care.

+ Do you take insurance?

I am an out-of-network therapist for PPO insurance plans. I’m happy to provide you with a statement (superbill) at the end of each month if you would like to send it to your insurance company for reimbursement of a portion of the session fee. Please feel free to contact your insurance company for information regarding benefits with an out-of-network provider.

+ Why did you become a therapist?

I’m glad you asked! After struggling with anxiety for much of my life, particularly with emetophobia (a phobia of vomit) and panic attacks, I have seen how discouraging and debilitating mental health struggles can be. However, I have also seen how treatment can be tremendously effective. It does get better and I am a testament to that. I also love watching clients integrate the tools they learn through therapy. I give thanks every day that I get to do this work and I’m inspired by my clients constantly.

+ What do I do if therapy isn’t working for me?

This is so important to bring up. I believe that the best therapists are open to feedback and frequently check in with how therapy is going for the client. Great therapists also know that we can’t be all things to all people. While I hope that you feel like our work is effective, I also want to know if you’re struggling. I’m completely open to feedback. It’s my job to get you with the right therapist and if I’m not it, I’ll help you find that person.