The initial appointment is focused around getting to know you more. Initial sessions are typically more structured and include a set of questions that I ask clients to help me further understand their history, presenting concerns, and goals for treatment. Together we will address any concerns or questions you have regarding therapy and identify a plan moving forward – whether that be scheduling a follow up therapy appointment with me or providing you with specific referrals based on the assessment provided.

Research has shown that therapy works best when attended at least one time per week. After our first meeting we can discuss which frequency of sessions (e.g., once per week, once every other week) would help you reach your goals. A typical therapy session lasts 45 minutes. 

In order for therapy to be effective, it is essential that clients feel safe disclosing their most private thoughts and feelings. That is why therapists take confidentiality very seriously, it is part of our code of ethics! In almost all cases, your privacy and personal information is strictly protected. 

Only in extreme cases will I need to break confidentiality. Limits of confidentiality will be reviewed during our first meeting and I encourage all clients to ask me questions regarding this process.

Yes! I offer both phone and video sessions. Video sessions are conducted through an encrypted and HIPAA-secure platform to uphold confidentiality. 

I currently accept the following insurance: Aetna, United Healthcare (UHC)/Optum, and Anthem “UCSHIP”. In-network status will depend on your specific policy and is determined before you start services.

If you do not have these insurances or I am out-of-network with your specific policy I can provide you with a “superbill” for out-of-network coverage if your insurance allows. 

Most insurance plans will cover a portion of the session fee, once your deductible has been met. How it works is this: you pay me directly for your session and, if you’d like to be reimbursed by your insurance, I will provide you a receipt to submit to your insurance company called a “superbill”.

If you would like to inquire about the possibility of reimbursement for out-of-network coverage, please check your policy carefully and ask the following questions to your insurance provider:

• Do I have behavioral health or mental health benefits?
• Does my particular plan have an out-of-network benefit?
• Do I have a deductible, how much is it, and has it been met?
• After my deductible is met, what percentage of the fee does my plan cover?
• How many mental health sessions per calendar year does my insurance plan cover?
• Are telehealth services covered by my plan or do services need to be in person?
• Do I need an authorization to begin outpatient therapy?
• Is approval required from my primary care physician?
• How do I access the form(s) needed to submit a request for reimbursement?

I cannot legally prescribe medication to clients. Taking psychiatric medication is entirely a personal choice. If during our time together it is determined that medication may be helpful, I will assist you in getting connected to a medical provider with prescribing abilities. 

My physical office is located in Pasadena, CA.

Not a problem! I am able to serve anyone residing within the state of California through virtual telehealth platforms. 

If you are located outside of California I am unable to provide services at this time.  

I currently do not offer group therapy however am working to offer groups in the future to help folks manage a variety of challenges. Group therapy can be incredibly effective for many and serve as a more cost-effective option. 

I accept all major credit cards, cash, check, Flexible Spending Account (FSA), and Health Savings Account (HSA). Payment is due at the time services are rendered.

I do have a limited number of discounted sliding scale slots that I reserve for clients with financial hardships. Please note that proof of hardship is required and sliding scale fees are reassessed every six months.

If my fee is not doable for you, I would be glad to provide you with resources and referrals for a provider that may be a better financial fit.