FAQ’s
What can I expect during my first
session?
The first session is all about getting to know you and understanding what brings you to therapy. We’ll explore your goals, any challenges you’re facing, and what you hope to gain from our time together. It’s also a chance for you to ask questions and get a feel for how I work. For children and teens, the initial session often includes parents or caregivers to gather important background information. My priority is to create a safe, welcoming space.
How long are sessions and how often
do we meet?
Individual therapy sessions typically last 50 minutes. For children or teens, session lengths may occasionally vary depending on their age and attention span, but most sessions remain around the 50-minute mark.
The frequency of sessions depends on your unique needs and goals. Many clients begin with weekly sessions to build momentum and consistency, especially in the early stages of therapy. As progress is made, some clients transition to bi-weekly or once a month sessions. During our initial meetings, we’ll collaborate to create a schedule that best supports your growth while fitting into your life.
How do you approach therapy with
children or teens?
I use age-appropriate, evidence-based approaches like SBT, CBT, and DBT techniques. I create a supportive environment that fosters trust and emotional safety, often incorporating play, art, or interactive tools to help younger clients express themselves. For teens, I balance building a strong therapeutic relationship with promoting emotional insight and coping strategies. I also involve parents or caregivers when appropriate, providing guidance and tools to support growth at home while respecting the child or teen’s privacy.
How involved will I be in my child’s
therapy?
When working with children, parent involvement is crucial for success. While therapy sessions primarily focus on helping your child, I often include parents through periodic check-ins, collaborative goal-setting, and sharing strategies to support your child’s growth at home. Depending on your child’s age and needs, sessions may involve direct parent participation or separate parent consultations. My goal is to create a team approach that empowers both the child and the family.
Will you share what my teen talks
about in sessions?
Confidentiality is an essential part of building trust in therapy, especially with teens. While I respect your teen’s privacy and create a safe space for them to express themselves, I also value open communication with parents. I will share general themes, progress updates, and any safety concerns that arise. If there’s something significant that your teen might benefit from sharing with you, I’ll encourage and support that process. In cases where there’s a risk of harm to themselves or others, I am ethically required to inform parents or guardians.
Do you offer telehealth sessions for
California residents?
Yes! I offer secure telehealth sessions for clients located anywhere in California. Virtual therapy provides flexibility and convenience, allowing you to access support from the comfort of your home or any private space. I use a HIPAA-compliant video platform to ensure your privacy and confidentiality. Telehealth can be a great option for busy parents, teens with packed schedules, or anyone who prefers the ease of online sessions. If you're unsure if teletherapy is the right fit for you or your child, I’m happy to discuss it during a free consultation.
Do you accept insurance or offer a
superbill for reimbursement?
While I am currently a out-of-network provider, I can provide a superbill—an itemized receipt—that you can submit to your insurance company for potential reimbursement. I recommend checking with your insurance provider to understand your out-of-network benefits.
Do you offer free consultations?
Yes! I offer a 20-minute free phone consultation to help you determine if we’re a good fit. This is a great opportunity to ask questions about my approach, share what you’re looking for in therapy, and see if my style aligns with your needs. Finding the right therapist is important, and I’m happy to help you make that decision with confidence.
What is your cancellation policy?
I kindly ask for at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule a session. Cancellations made with less than 24 hours’ notice may be subject to the full session fee. I understand that life happens, and I do my best to accommodate emergencies when possible. Consistency in therapy is key to making progress, and this policy helps maintain a steady and respectful schedule for all clients.