I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?

Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the ability to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. You already have some strengths that you’ve used before, that for whatever reason isn’t working right now. Perhaps this problem feels overwhelming and is making it difficult to access your past strengths. In our work together, I’ll help you identify what those strengths are and how to implement them again in what is happening now.

What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?

The difference is between someone who can do something, and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, therapy is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, if you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.

Do you only work with men?

The short answer is “No.” Some therapists have a niche or specialty area within their practice, but also enjoy working with diverse populations and have experience and training in doing so. I also work with women and some couples on most issues. The core service revolves around the treatment of personal trauma experienced in all phases of one’s life either directly to the client, or those closest to the client that have also been negatively impacted by it. The most important thing is working with a therapist that you feel a connection with and can trust, whether it be a male, female, veteran, or another identity. There must be a “good fit” for both client and therapist.

Why shouldn’t I just take medication?

Medication alone cannot solve all issues, but may be part of the treatment equation. What medication does is treat the primary symptoms. Our work together is designed to explore the root of the issue, dig deeper into your behavior, emotions, and teach strategies that can help you accomplish your personal and/or relational goals. Medication can be effective and is sometimes needed in conjunction with therapy. Medication is discussed with your primary care doctor or with a Psychiatrist, who specializes in psychiatric medicine.

What is the difference between individual and group therapy?

Individual therapy is helpful for so many people because it’s the best way to get truly customized therapy. Group therapy may have its own set of numerous advantages, but if you want more control over the pacing of your therapy, the methods used, the amount of analysis or feedback you can receive, and the timing of your sessions, you owe it to yourself to look into individual therapy.

If you’re looking for help improving your everyday life – or for a more tailored therapy experience you might be a great fit for individual therapy services. Please reach out to me today for an assessment for individual therapy or to schedule your first appointment.

Group therapy’s effectiveness lies in its ability to help you find connections with other people and their experiences. These therapist-guided sessions will help you learn more about yourself and how to improve the way you feel, while feeling support from others who understand your experience.

If you’re looking for help in improving yourself relationally through community-oriented therapy experience you might be a great fit for group therapy services. Please reach out to me today for a group screening and a non-obligatory consult.

What is “informed consent” and all the documents I need to understand before I begin therapy?

Ethically and legally, therapists are required to provide you with documents that cover all aspects of their practice, your rights and limitations, and other requirements, so that you can make an informed decision before entering therapy. Signing the informed consent is not a binding contract, but an agreement of understanding between you and your therapist. Other documents involve assessment of your current mental and physical health, social history, family history, and other important things about you. You will receive all these important documents for your review and signature at the time of your intake process, leading up to your first appointment.

How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?

Because each person has different issues and goals for therapy, therapy will be different depending on the individual. I tailor my therapeutic approach to your specific needs. Your first couple of sessions are dedicated to the intake and assessment process, which is mostly completed online and at home; making it easier and more comfortable for you. Therapy goals are identified and co-developed between you and the therapist in a collaborative manner.

How long will it take?

Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time therapy can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek therapy in the first place.

Do You Take Insurance?

Currently, we are an in-network provider with Optum Behavioral Health, and an EAP provider with Concern Health EAP. With other insurance companies, I am currently considered an “out-of-network” provider. Clients pay their service fee directly to me following each session, and may also have an option for out-of-network services and partial fee reimbursement. Please check first with your insurance provider about reimbursement, as each provider has different policies. We do provide reduced out-of-pocket rates for individuals and some family members of the military, law enforcement, and first responder communities.

I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?

I am so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and commitment is crucial to your success. After all, we only see each other for a session a week, bi-weekly, or monthly. It’s also the work you do outside of our sessions that will really help you realize your personal growth and development.

What are the next steps if I am sure about beginning therapy?

The most important thing is making sure that you and your therapist are the “right fit” and that you feel a sense of safety, trust, and understanding. If you would like to begin services, please contact me via phone, email, or by completing the contact form within this website. I will respond with setting up a non-obligatory 15-minute phone consult with you to discuss reasons for seeking therapy and gather basic information on your counseling needs. Shortly thereafter, you will receive a welcome email into your private client portal, inviting you to complete and sign all necessary intake documents and assessments for me to review online before your first intake appointment. Additionally, you will receive automated appointment reminders through text and email each time an appointment is made between us. Should you have any concerns and questions regarding this process, please contact me directly.

How can I file a complaint for my therapist?

The first and best step is to share your concerns directly with your therapist. However, this is not required, and you have the option to follow the notice below.

NOTICE TO CLIENTS The California Board of Behavioral Sciences receives and responds to complaints regarding services provided within the scope of practice of (marriage and family therapists, licensed educational psychologists, clinical social workers, or professional clinical counselors). You may contact the board online at www.bbs.ca.gov, or by calling (916) 574-7830.