Anxiety, Trauma, and Anger Therapy: Frequently Asked Questions

Here are the questions I’m most frequently asked about working together. If you have other questions, please click here to send me a message.

  • I currently offer online services as a California-licensed Psychologist, which means I can meet with any California resident within the state. Clients usually find remote therapy just as helpful as in-person sessions, and it's convenient. We can meet in your living room, in your car, or on your work break - wherever you feel most comfortable and secure.

  • Sometimes people wonder if online therapy is as effective as in-person therapy and if they might miss out on any benefits.

    Studies show that online therapy is just as effective as traditional in-person therapy. This is true even for highly attuned methods of trauma treatments like EMDR Therapy.

    In my experience, many clients find online therapy more comfortable and convenient. You save time on commuting and can have therapy from the comfort of your own home.

    I offer online video-based therapy using a secure HIPAA-compliant platform, Zoom. All you need is a good internet connection and a private space to meet.

    If you’re not sure if online therapy is right for you, schedule a free consultation with me and we can discuss if this format can help meet your needs.

  • I don’t at this time, but this might change in the near future.

  • My rate is $210 for a 50-minute session. I offer a limited number of sliding scale slots; please inquire if you’d like to explore this option.

  • I am currently in-network with Anthem Blue Cross. For all other insurance plans, I am considered an out-of-network provider. If needed, I can provide a superbill (an insurance-specific receipt) for you to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement.

    PPO plans typically offer reimbursement for out-of-network therapy services. Some plans require that you meet a deductible before reimbursement begins

    . If you’re interested in using your out-of-network benefits, I recommend calling the number on the back of your insurance card to ask the following questions:

    1. Does my plan cover services with outpatient behavioral health providers who are out-of-network?

    2. Do I have an out-of-network deductible? If so, how much of it has been met this year?

    3. What is the out-of-network reimbursement rate for CPT code 90837?

    Some clients choose not to use insurance to maintain maximum privacy, confidentiality, and flexibility in their mental health treatment.

    If you have any questions about how this process works, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

  • During our initial session, we'll discuss why you're seeking therapy, your personal background, and what you hope to achieve. I'll ask questions about your life, current struggles, and emotional well-being to get a deeper understanding of your situation. We'll move forward at a pace that feels comfortable for you, and you're encouraged to raise any questions or concerns at any time. Even in the first intake session, I aim to provide you with some tools and insights to help you find relief.

  • The duration of therapy depends on factors such as your goals, the nature of your concerns, and your progress. While it varies for each individual, many clients begin to feel better after a few sessions. Research suggests that most people see improvement within 12-15 sessions. Although I can't predict the exact number of sessions, I am dedicated to helping you heal as quickly as possible.

  • Please feel free to ask any questions you have to learn more about my approach and what therapy with me looks like. We'll discuss your concerns and talk about your therapy goals. If we feel like we're a good match, we can schedule your first session.

  • Yes, with a few exceptions. What you share with me will not be disclosed unless you provide permission for me to do so (e.g., if you would like to sign a release for me to speak with your other provider). The exceptions to this are if you present a significant risk to yourself or someone else, if I have knowledge of a child or vulnerable adult who has experienced abuse or neglect, or if a court subpoenas my records.

  • A Good Faith Estimate (GFE) is an upfront estimate of the expected costs for medical and mental health care services. This estimate is provided by healthcare providers to individuals who do not have health insurance, those who choose not to use their insurance, or those seeking information about the cost of services.

    Under the No Surprises Act, healthcare providers are required to offer a Good Faith Estimate before providing services. This estimate includes the total expected cost of non-emergency healthcare services, such as psychotherapy. You have the right to request a Good Faith Estimate from any provider before scheduling a service. If you receive a bill that exceeds your estimated costs by at least $400, you can dispute the bill. Be sure to keep a copy or a photo of your Good Faith Estimate for reference.

    For more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate and how to dispute a bill, you can visit WWW.CMS.GOV/NOSURPRISES.

  • Finding the right therapist is important. It's about feeling understood and building trust. While it might take a few sessions to know for sure, you should feel heard and supported from the beginning. If you're unsure about our fit after a session or two, please let me know, and we'll figure out the best plan for you together.

  • Please feel free to reach out via email, phone, or the contact page to schedule a session or a 15-minute complimentary consultation.