frequently asked questions

 
 
 
  • My rate is $175 per session for individuals and $200 per session for couples. I do not work directly with insurance companies, but I am able to provide a superbill that clients can send to insurance companies for potential reimbursement.

  • Boundaries around time are important, but I have also learned to respect that I work best allowing a little wiggle room at the end of sessions. Therefore, my sessions range between 50-60 minutes. At times, 50 minutes feels just right to complete the thoughts of the day. However, I allow a cushion of 10 additional minutes for those weeks when we might need a bit more time to wrap up thoughtfully.

  • Protecting your privacy is a responsibility I take very seriously, as it is essential to building your trust in therapy. In addition, privacy in therapy is protected by professional ethical guidelines, Federal Laws, and State Laws.

    Please note that there are some legal exceptions to confidentiality, when I would be bound by law and ethics to take steps to protect you or others.

    Examples include:

    1) a reasonable suspicion of child abuse/neglect or elder adult abuse/neglect

    2) a reasonable suspicion that you may present a danger of violence to others

    3) a reasonable suspicion that you are likely to harm yourself unless protective measures are taken

    I am happy to answer any questions about your rights regarding privacy. I will review these policies during our initial session, and we can revisit them whenever new questions arise.

    More information about the laws governing privacy procedures can be found by clicking the following link: Privacy Practices.

  • I offer both in person and Telehealth sessions, as well as a hybrid approach for people whose needs fluctuate between the two. For in-person sessions, I am happy to welcome clients to my office in Pasadena, California. The office is conveniently located just south of Old Town Pasadena, near both the 210 and 110 freeways.

    The following section provides more information about the specifics of Telehealth (i.e.: how it works and who it benefits). We can also talk at greater length during the initial free consultation to determine which format might be best for you.

  • Telehealth (also referred to as online therapy, video therapy, or Teletherapy) utilizes video conferencing to connect you with a therapist in real time. Video therapy is conducted via secure online platforms.

    My electronic health record system, SimplePractice, offers a HIPPA-compliant video platform that is easy to use on either a laptop or mobile device. I provide all my clients with clear instructions on how to get started before the first session.

    Research demonstrates that online therapy is effective for a range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, and trauma, to name a few. Telehealth is commonly used with clients who have presenting symptoms that are not of a high-risk nature. Most clients who are not experiencing high risk symptoms report receiving the same level of quality care through Telehealth as in person.

    Online therapy is not the best fit for everyone, including those presenting with high-risk symptoms. Immediate support is essential for someone actively thinking of attempting suicide or other forms of self-harm. More intensive care would also be a better fit for someone who is actively experiencing significant symptoms of addiction and/ or eating disorders.

  • If you are having a mental health crisis, please call 911, contact the Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255), or visit the nearest emergency room. Please don’t wait to access the support you need.

  • Yes! Truthfully, no one ever asks this question. The animals invite themselves, and that’s that. But it’s a source of joy, which makes it worth mentioning!

    So, find your furry family member if you have one, sink into your favorite chair, and click over to the “Contact Me” page to see where we go from here.