Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of therapy do you offer?
There are many theories/approaches in therapy. Some that are designed to target specific diagnoses, symptoms etc. There are many therapists who really resonate with a specific theory and spend additional time becoming specialized in that theory. I am not a “One Size Fits All” type of therapist. In other words I do not identify myself as strictly a Psychodynamic, Structural or Cognitive Behavioral etc. Therapist. Our life, our experiences , our problems, all the puzzle pieces that lead you here are unique and I believe your therapy journey should reflect that instead of trying to mold to a specific structured therapy style. What this looks like is a crafted, hand tailored approach to targeting your needs and symptoms which may include a mix of multiple approaches such as: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy etc. That said I tend to start from a Client Centered approach and then draw from the many other approaches based on your needs and goals.
I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in California and Idaho.
What does therapy look like?
Nervous about telling a stranger your deepest darkest secrets, afraid of being judged, worried you might not even know where to begin? I get it! Starting therapy is brave, you are trusting me with your vulnerability and that is something that I do not take lightly. I promise it will be ok. You are in the driver’s seat- we can dive right in, we can go slow – either way trust and comfortability comes with time. It is my goal to create a real relationship with you, where therapy becomes a conversation versus a target practice for questions and analytical responses. Each session we will typically spend a little time catching up on your week, then we will either discuss anything that has come up that has been bugging you or we will dive in on one of your goals. Towards the end of the session I wrap up with a check in, how are you feeling, was there anything we didn’t get to, etc.; if there is still more, we will jot it down as a good jumping off point for the next session.
How long are the sessions?
Every session is 50 minutes. Extended sessions are available at an additional fee.
A quick Google search will tell you that on average people are in therapy for 12- 20 sessions. However, in my experience I feel the length of therapy is really determined on the reasons you are seeking therapy. For instance, if you were a seasoned therapy client who was seeking therapy for a very specific, short term problem (think issue at work, transition anxiety etc) you might only need a couple sessions. On the other hand, if you are new to therapy, have multiple goals or a lot of trauma you could be looking at much greater span of time. This can feel a bit overwhelming when you start thinking about time, commitment and cost. So I will be upfront and honest- it is an Investment. When you start therapy you are communicating that you are ready and invested into doing what it takes to making long term changes; and when you are ready so am I.
How much does therapy cost?
$140 / 50 min Session via Video Call or Phone Call *( if clinically appropriate)
$160 / 50 min Couples Session via Video Call
$180 / 50 min Families Session via Video Call (3 or more people)
I often hear from clients that therapy is expensive- especially when insurance isn’t available. I understand, it is; but it is more than just the cost of doing business. Therapy is an Investment. An investment into you, your future and the person you want to be. I don’t know about you but I know I’ve been guilty of investing in things that show me no long term returns- ya famous coffee chain, I’m looking at you! Here, the tools you learn, the changes you make and the benefits you receive will stay with you for a lifetime.
What age should my child be for therapy?
Children can seek therapy at any age. Although young children do best in person and with Play Therapy specialized therapists, whereas preteens and teenagers do better with traditional therapy methods, such as online therapy.
How do remote sessions work?
It is just like normal therapy but from the comfort of your own home- or wherever you want to be! I have teamed up with SimplePractice to provide you a seamless therapy experience. You will create your own secure client portal which will be our home base for viewing and exchanging documents, sending messages, and scheduling and attending appointments. There is also an App that you can download so that you can access your portal and attend appointments no matter where you are.
Do you accept insurance?
Yes! I am currently accepting Aetna and Optum for individual therapy. If you do not have Aetna or Optum but have a different PPO, I am happy to provide you with documentation to submit to your provider for reimbursement in the event you have out of network benefits. I also accept Flexible Savings Account cards and Health Savings Account Cards as payment options. Unfortunately, I do not accept insurance for couples therapy at this time.
What are your hours?
My normal business hours (for sessions) are Monday – Thursday 8am - 3pm, however I operate 9-5 Monday - Friday if you need to reach me by phone.
Generally I am not available on Friday’s for regular appointments but arrangements can be made if necessary. If you need to reach me I try to respond ASAP, but typically respond to all voicemails, emails, and messages within 1 -2 business days.
It is important to note that I am not a crisis therapist. This means that I am not on-call 24/7. In the event of a crisis it is critical that you call 911 to ensure you receive the help you need.