FAQ

If you are struggling emotionally, feeling stuck, or if you’re experiencing problems with relationships in your life, I recommend giving therapy a try. Many people experience these types of issues at some point in their lives. Therapy can expedite the process towards healing and promote growth. Some people also enter therapy just to gain more personal understanding of themselves or of their relationship patterns. You don’t have to wait until things feel dire to give therapy a try. Therapy can be about empowerment and helping you to thrive. If you feel unsure, please contact me for a free consultation. I can learn more about what you’re looking for and let you know my professional recommendations.

Yes! Many research studies have demonstrated that psychotherapy works! As a psychologist, I have gone through years of training and experience in providing evidenced based treatments to help improve lives.

In order to address an issue, it’s important to first understand the issue. Perhaps you’ve landed on my website because you are considering professional help for the relationship concerns that you’re having. Our first few sessions would be dedicated towards assessment, where I seek to understand you and your partner’s backgrounds, your relationship history, your strengths, your current relationship concerns, and your goals. I will help the two of you start to identify and unpack the patterns you’re in that are keeping you stuck.

For couple therapy, my primary modality is Emotionally Focused Therapy, or EFT. EFT is a research-based approach that has been effective in helping many couples like you. I will not be a passive listener in the session, nor will I be directing you without first having a clear understanding of your concerns. I see my role as a “guide” and a “process consultant.” I will help you and your partner gain a deeper understanding of yourselves and of each other, help you see the dynamics that are keeping you stuck, and guide you in making shifts so that you can both feel more fulfilled, secure, and connected in your relationship. I have a clear road map to success!

While EFT is considered a short-term treatment, and many couples start to feel a little better after a few sessions, couples often feel more significant improvements in their relationship when they are able to dedicate time to weekly treatment for 4 to 6 months minimum. The exact duration of treatment will of course vary based on your specific histories, concerns, and goals. Working on your relationship takes time and investment on so many levels and it is absolutely worth it. I’ll be honored to help you in this process.

Effective psychotherapy is built on the foundation of a strong therapeutic relationship. It’s important to me to create an environment where you can engage in open exploration and feel the freedom in making choices for your life. I believe in working collaboratively with you to tailor a treatment that is fit for you. Together, we can identify the issues you want to work on and track your progress towards making change.

I am trained in a number of effective psychological treatments. Some of my theoretical influences include interpersonal, humanist-existential, emotionally focused, motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioral, acceptance-based and mindfulness-based approaches. I draw from these approaches depending on your specific needs. I have had the honor of working with people from all walks of life, helping them learn about themselves, connect with others, tackle difficult decisions, and live a more authentic and fulfilling life.

In the therapy room, I strive to provide a balance of support and challenge. I listen attentively to your concerns and provide guidance to help you meet your therapy goals. My style is warm and non-judgmental. It isn’t my role to tell you how to live your life. Rather, my hope is to understand your experiences and guide and empower you to figure out the changes that you want to make. When applicable, I might suggest actionable tips or skills to learn and practice. Doing this exploration can feel very vulnerable and challenging, and I am committed to support you in this process. I understand the investment it takes to engage in therapy is not always easy, and I feel privileged to be a part of this journey with you.

Yes, I have a strong generalist training background and provide treatments for issues such as stress, anxiety, grief, and depression. I also have specialized training in women’s behavioral health. Please feel free to schedule a free consultation and we can discuss your needs.

During the initial consultation, we will discuss the reason you are seeking services and whether I can help you. The initial consultation is also a great opportunity for you to see if you are comfortable working with me. If I am not able to help you with your specific concerns, we can discuss other resources that may be helpful to you. The consultation takes about 15 minutes.

See this article by the American Psychological Association for a helpful guide on this topic.

At this time, I only work with adults, age 18 and up.

I do not and cannot. You may consider discussing your concern with your primary care provider or consult with a psychiatric nurse practitioner or a psychiatrist if you are interested in a medication evaluation. We can also discuss if you are interested in talk therapy as an adjunct to your medication treatment.

I am not in network with any insurance plans, and I do not accept Medi-Cal or Medicare. The full session fee is due at the time of service. If you have out of network benefits through your health insurance, I can provide you an invoice, or Superbill, that you can submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement. I encourage you to contact your insurance company to find out details about your out of network benefits and how you can submit the Superbill to them.

My fees are comparable to specialist psychologists in the Los Angeles area. My current psychotherapy rates are $240 per 50-minute session.

Please also note that you have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” explaining how much your medical care will cost:

Under the law, health care providers need to give patients who don’t have insurance or who are not using insurance an estimate of the bill for medical items and services.

• You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency items or services. This includes related costs like medical tests, prescription drugs, equipment, and hospital fees.

• Make sure your health care provider gives you a Good Faith Estimate in writing at least 1 business day before your medical service or item. You can also ask your health care provider, and any other provider you choose, for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule an item or service.

• If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can dispute the bill.

• Make sure to save a copy or picture of your Good Faith Estimate.

For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises or call (800) 368-1019.

I currently see all my clients via a secure video-conference platform. Research has shown that online therapy can be as effective as in person therapy. Online therapy allows for more convenience, flexibility, and ease for many people. Instead of taking time to commute to my office, you get to see me from the comfort of your own home. To maximize your experience, it’s important that you have a device to use, a strong and secure internet connection, and a place where you have privacy for the sessions. Because I am a licensed psychologist in the state of California, I can only provide services to you when you physically in California for the sessions.

Sessions are by appointment only. Typically, the earliest appointment of the day starts at 9am, and the latest appointment starts at 4pm. The office is closed on weekends and holidays. Please contact me to inquire about my current availability.

Schedule a complimentary consultation via the secure online portal for my practice. Let’s discuss what your concerns are and how I can help. I’d be happy to answer any questions you have about the process of therapy.