Frequently Asked Questions

“I’m interested in starting therapy, how does it work?”

First Steps

Start by visiting the client portal and follow the new client prompts to book a complimentary 15 minute phone consultation. This is a time for us to connect, discuss your goals, and address any questions you may have.

Before your First Appointment

Once we determine working together is a good fit, we’ll schedule your first session. You will also be sent intake forms through the client portal to be completed before your first session.

During your Appointment

In this session, we’ll dive deeper into understanding what brings you to therapy and identify the areas you’d like to focus on. At the end of the first session, we will schedule your recurring appointment time. For best results, I recommend a weekly commitment as we build rapport and get clear on your goals. As we continue our work together, session frequency can be adjusted as needed, whether that’s remaining at a weekly basis or changing to a bi-weekly basis.

Online therapy San Diego

FAQs

  • If you’re feeling ‘stuck’ and can’t figure out how to make lasting change, therapy can be a great place to process the way you think, your behaviors, and past experiences to help lead to creating your dream life. If you're exploring the idea of therapy, I encourage you to reach out for an initial free consultation. This allows us to discuss your specific concerns, goals, and any questions you may have. Together, we can determine how therapy aligns with your unique needs and whether it's a beneficial step for you.

  • Sessions typically involve open conversations about your thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and life experiences. As your therapist, I will offer guidance, support, and evidence-based techniques to help you navigate challenges and achieve your goals.

  • Telehealth involves using technology to conduct therapy sessions remotely, providing a virtual platform for individuals to connect with their therapist. To learn more specifics about telehealth services I offer, click here.

  • I am an out-of-network provider, meaning clients will pay for services directly at the private pay rate, and you may be eligible for reimbursement depending on your insurance plan. All payments will be made at the time of service through a secure online client payment portal. PPO insurance plans can offer out-of-network benefits that may provide reimbursement for your sessions. I'm happy to provide you with a Superbill upon request, which includes all of the necessary information for submission to your insurance company.

    It's important to note that reimbursement is not guaranteed and I encourage you to check with your insurance provider to understand your specific coverage and policies.

  • Sessions are 50 minutes long.

    Individual therapy needs vary, and the duration of therapy is case-specific. To start, I find it important to commit to weekly sessions for at least 8-12 weeks. This initial period provides a consistent foundation for the work and our relationship, which has been shown to be the number one indicator of an effective therapeutic experience. After that, we can reassess the frequency of sessions based on your evolving needs and progress. Your goals and concerns guide the process, ensuring you receive the support you are looking for!

  • Life can sometimes be unpredictable and I understand that. I ask for clients to reach out via phone or email at least 24 business hours prior to session if you need to cancel. The full session fee will be charged if an appointment is missed or cancelled within the 24 business hour window.

  • Yes, therapy is designed to be confidential. Your privacy is a top priority, and information shared in sessions is protected by ethical and legal standards. Exceptions may apply in cases of imminent harm or legal requirements that will always be discussed at the beginning of therapy.

  • Once we complete our initial consultation, I explain more specifics about what the first session looks like. It may be helpful to reflect on what brought you to therapy and what you hope to achieve through the process as I will ask you more about your goals in the first session. My main goals for the first session are to learn more about how I can help you and to create a safe space where you feel comfortable sharing with me. I lead the intake session with specific questions so there is no pressure for you to feel ready to freely talk for 50 minutes. Ongoing sessions are more client-led as you begin to feel more comfortable knowing what topics to discuss and dive into deeper work.

  • During our initial consultation, I will be asking questions to make sure that I can assist you with your therapy goals. It’s important that you feel comfortable and supported in therapy and if that is not the case, please let me know. I always remind clients during the first session that I value finding people the support they need, whether that is with me, or that I help you find another therapist who better suits your needs. Your comfort and progress are my top priorities.

  • As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California, I am able to provide therapy services to individuals residing in California. If you live outside of California, I recommend finding a licensed therapist in your state to ensure you receive appropriate care that aligns with your local regulations.

  • Yes! Please note that my office building is high on the hill. Your directions may make it seem like you have arrived at the bottom of the hill. Look up for the big building with 2525 on the front. There’s plenty of parking up there, so no need to hike from the bottom of the hill. There are a few steps into the front door. If you need/want the ramp access to the building please let me know. A convenient and accessible office location is important to me, so if you have any questions, I’ll be happy to help direct you!