FAQS
Does therapy even work?
Yup! Research has shown, over and over, that therapy is effective for about 70% of clients, for many problems therapy is as effective or even more effective than medication.
Who goes to therapy?
Everybody! Just kidding, but seriously LOTS and lots of people go to therapy for all kinds of reasons. Some of us grew up in communities or families where there is stigma around taking care of your psychological health the way you take care of your physical health. Therapy can be an important way of caring for yourself, preserving yourself so you can be there for those you love, healing from injuries, coping with stress, and improving your life.
What does it cost?
Individual and couples sessions cost $150/session; sessions are 50 minutes long. Sliding scale/reduced fees are available.
Do you take insurance?
I do not “take” insurance, however, I can provide you with what is called a “super bill.” You can submit super bills to your insurance company and, if you have “out of network” mental health coverage, the insurance company will reimburse you for some or all of the cost of our sessions. Most clients get approximately 50% reimbursed. To check, you can call your insurance company (using the member services phone number located on the back of your insurance card) and inquire about your “out of network, outpatient mental health” benefit and they will tell you over the phone what % of the cost they will cover.
Why don’t you take insurance?
Insurance companies cover only what they define as “medically necessary treatment.” Much important mental health treatment does not fall into that category (a small list might include - history of childhood mistreatment, poor relationships with parents/children/spouse, existential fears, worry for the future of the planet, feeling “stuck” in your life, lack of joy and vitality, etc.).
What forms of payment to do you accept for session fees?
I accept check, zelle, or venmo.
What kind of therapy do you do?
My most important therapy influences are:
Psychodynamic psychotherapy - focused on emotion, how early experiences shape our current life, exploring patterns of behavior that keep showing up in our lives; emphasis on the healing processes of insight, exploration, and deeper self-understanding.
Multicultural psychology- focused on cultural context and how our varied and intersecting identities shape our sense of ourselves and the world; emphasis on the healing processes of community. empowerment, liberation, and critical consciousness.
Cognitive & Third Wave Behavioral Therapies- focused on the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and the power of what we say to ourselves; emphasis on the healing processes of goal setting, making observable changes, and the power of acceptance/gratitude/living our values.
How long does it take?
The length of treatment really varies from person to person. Many people benefit from extended therapy relationships although some clients get what they' are looking for within a few months.
What should I expect at my first session?
Getting to know each other, asking questions (both ways), and the beginnings of collaborative discussions about how we can shape our work together to best meet your needs.