FAQs

I work with individuals, couples, and families across the lifespan, from early childhood through adulthood.

While my practice includes several areas of focus, I also work more broadly. If you’re unsure whether therapy with me would be helpful, we can talk through what you’re looking for during a consultation.

Sessions are available in person in Santa Monica as well as via telehealth for clients located anywhere in California.

Telehealth sessions are conducted through a secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform.

The first step is to schedule a brief consultation call. During this conversation we can talk about what brings you to therapy, discuss your goals, and determine whether working together may be a good fit.

If it seems that my practice could be helpful for your needs, we can then schedule an initial appointment.

The first few sessions focus on developing a clear understanding of your concerns, history, and goals for therapy. This initial period allows us to discuss patterns that may be contributing to current difficulties and begin identifying possible directions for treatment.

These early meetings are also an opportunity for you to determine whether the therapeutic approach and working relationship feel like a good fit.

Individual therapy sessions are typically 45 minutes.

Couples sessions are usually 75 minutes, depending on the needs of the work.

Sessions are most often scheduled on a weekly basis, though frequency may vary depending on individual circumstances and goals.

The length of therapy varies depending on individual goals, the nature of the concerns being addressed, and how the work develops over time.

Some people seek therapy for a more focused period of support, while others choose to continue for longer-term growth and reflection.

Evidence-based therapy refers to approaches that have been studied in scientific research and shown to be effective for particular concerns. These treatments integrate research evidence, clinical expertise, and each client’s goals and preferences.

In practice, therapy often focuses on identifying patterns that contribute to distress, developing new ways of responding to thoughts and emotions, and strengthening skills that support meaningful change in daily life.

Fees vary depending on the type and length of session. I’m happy to discuss current rates during a consultation call so you have a clear sense of what to expect before getting started.

My practice is not directly contracted with insurance companies, meaning services are provided on an out-of-network basis.

Many PPO plans offer reimbursement for out-of-network mental health services. If your plan includes these benefits, you may be able to receive partial reimbursement for therapy sessions.

I can provide a monthly statement (often called a superbill) that you may submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement.

The best way to understand your coverage is to contact your insurance provider directly. You can call the number on the back of your insurance card and ask about your out-of-network mental health benefits.

Some helpful questions to ask include:

• Do I have out-of-network coverage for psychotherapy?
• What percentage of the fee is reimbursed?
• Is there a deductible I must meet first?
• How do I submit claims for reimbursement?

Payment is made through the secure online client portal, where credit card and electronic payments are accepted.

Details about payment and policies are provided during the intake process.

Under federal law, clients who are not using insurance have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate of the expected cost of services.

A Good Faith Estimate outlines the anticipated charges for your care, including psychotherapy services. You are entitled to receive this estimate in writing prior to beginning non-emergency services.

If you do not plan to use insurance for any part of your treatment, your provider should provide a Good Faith Estimate at least one business day before your first scheduled service. If you receive a bill that is $400 or more above the estimate, you have the right to dispute the charge.

It is recommended that you keep a copy of your Good Faith Estimate for your records.

Additional information about this right is available at www.cms.gov/nosurprises.

I ask for at least 24 hours’ notice for cancellations or rescheduling.

Appointments cancelled with less notice may be subject to the full session fee.

If you anticipate being away for more than two weeks, sessions are held with payment in order to reserve your ongoing appointment time for clients meeting on a regular basis.

We can review this together in more detail when getting started.

If you would like to schedule a consultation or ask a question about working together, please visit the Contact page.

If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.

I typically respond to messages within 1 - 2 business days.

I do not provide 24-hour crisis support, so if you need immediate assistance, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.

My husky, Billie, occasionally joins me in the office and usually spends sessions quietly sleeping nearby. Many people find her calm presence grounding.

A dog-free space is always available if you prefer.