Frequently Asked Questions

  • If your daily life feels more difficult than usual, your relationships are strained, or you’ve found yourself searching articles or trying to self‑help because “something’s off,” you may be ready.
    Maybe you’re also noticing physical symptoms—like sleep issues, tension, or difficulty concentrating—that your medical provider hasn’t fully explained.


    Therapy with a California licensed counselor offers a space to explore, heal, and grow. Even starting with questions is a powerful first step.

    • Initial Intake: 60 minutes

    • Ongoing Sessions: 50 minutes

    • There is no fixed number of sessions—healing and growth look different for everyone.

    • We’ll review progress together and decide what continues to feel helpful. Therapy can extend for as long as it brings value and meets your goals.

    • For most clients, weekly sessions are ideal—especially in the beginning—as they allow continuity, trust, and momentum.

    • With children and teens, the first session includes parents/caregivers. From there, we may meet with the child alone (based on age) and also check in with the parents.

    • The schedule and frequency are tailored to your family’s needs and what feels sustainable.

  • You might say something such as: “A therapist is someone who helps you figure out what to do when you feel stuck or overwhelmed. It’s your time to talk, draw, or explore, and you don’t have to share everything.”
    Because my sessions are virtual, I generally do not recommend virtual therapy for children under age 10. In‑person sessions are often preferred for younger clients. I’m happy to share referrals if needed.

  • Yes — I currently accept Aetna and Optum.
    I'm partnered with a third‑party billing service to streamline paperwork so you don’t have to worry.
    If you’re not covered by those insurers, many clients with PPO plans see reimbursement via out-of-network benefits. I can provide monthly statements so you can submit claims.
    Here are good questions to ask your insurance:

    • Do I have mental health coverage for out‑of‑network providers?

    • What’s the deductible I need to meet first?

    • How many therapy sessions are allowed per year?

  • Your privacy is protected by professional legal standards—meaning your records and conversations are private unless you give permission.
    However, there are exceptions when confidentiality must be broken, such as:

    • If you or someone else is in danger

    • If a child, older adult, or dependent adult is at risk of abuse or neglect

    • If a court issues a subpoena

    • In a life-threatening medical situation, when relevant information is needed by medical personnel

  • By law, health care providers—including therapists—must give clients without insurance (or not using insurance) a Good Faith Estimate of expected costs.
    You’ll receive this estimate when you complete your initial intake packet, laying out the anticipated out‑of‑pocket costs based on our agreed plan.

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