Frequently Asked Questions
What happens during the first therapy session?
Following our complimentary 15-minute phone consultation, we will schedule a date and time that is convenient for both of us. Prior to our first session, I will email you several forms, including a Disclosure Statement outlining the services I provide, a Notice of Privacy Practices, a Good Faith Estimate, and a few general assessments to help identify your needs and any challenges or symptoms you may be experiencing. While completing these forms is important, I prioritize using our first session to discuss your specific needs and what you hope to achieve through therapy.
Introductions are a vital part of our process, and I encourage you to ask appropriate personal questions to help us get to know each other better. While I maintain professional boundaries to the highest standards, I understand that sitting with someone who doesn’t share anything about themselves can feel intimidating for many clients. I aim to strike a balance that makes our sessions comfortable and engaging.
I will send you forms via the client portal through Simple Practice. Please take the time to read them carefully, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about the information provided. Some forms will require your electronic signature and date.
Where do sessions take place?
Sessions can take place in my office, video via Zoom and or Simple Practice, phone, outdoors, and in some circumstances in your home.
How do I know if I or my teen really need therapy?
If you find yourself struggling to manage day-to-day activities, feeling overwhelmed by negative thoughts, or facing relentless feelings of sadness, it may be time to seek support.
You might notice changes in your sleep patterns, such as insomnia or sleeping too much. Perhaps your eating habits have shifted, or you’re spending less time with friends and family than you used to. You may be experiencing memory lapses, increased arguments, or a persistent sense of anger and irritability. If you feel defeated by life, these are signs that reaching out for help could be beneficial.
Sometimes, friends, family members, or medical professionals recommend therapy due to physical symptoms associated with anxiety or depression. It’s important to remember that seeking help—whether for yourself or for your teen—should never be a source of shame. Many people feel this way, but taking that step can lead to positive change and healing. I’m here to support you on this journey.
Do you treat individuals with severe mental health disorders such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, or high-risk clients with substance use disorders or a history of suicide attempts?
At this time, I do not treat severe mental health disorders. In the past, I had the opportunity to work alongside a skilled team that specialized in treating clients with such conditions. In my private practice, I focus exclusively on clients with mild to moderate disorders, including mild to moderate cannabis and alcohol use.
Please call 911 if you or someone you know is in danger of harming themselves. You can also reach the Santa Barbara County Access Line 24 hours a day 7 days a week.
How often will I need to come to therapy?
The frequency of your counseling sessions will depend on your individual needs and your commitment to the therapeutic process. Typically, we meet weekly to assess your progress and adjust your goals as necessary.
Most clients choose to commit to a 12-week (3-month) program, at which point we will evaluate your progress to ensure you are on track to achieve your goals. Sessions are generally held once a week for 50 minutes.
For some clients, especially those considering Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) or more intensive therapy, twice-weekly sessions may be beneficial. Please refer to the "Fees" section for the cost per session for DBT, as it differs from standard session rates.
How long will I need to come to Therapy?
The duration of counseling is variable and depends on your individual needs, or those of your teen. Most clients begin to see progress and feel improvements within three months or sooner. For individuals facing more complex challenges, a commitment of six months may be beneficial.
The goal of therapy is not to prolong the process, but rather to empower you to reach a level of confidence and well-being that allows you to function independently. Of course, clients are always welcome to return for support if unmanageable challenges arise or if they require maintenance therapy.
Do you have evening and weekend appointments available?
I do not offer sessions during evenings and weekends, as I prioritize self-care, which is essential for everyone, including therapists. This time is reserved for my family.
How much do sessions cost?
Initial (first) session $250 ( 75-90 min)
Individual Therapy Sessions $200 (50 min)
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) $220 per session (60 min)
Click here for more info on cost of therapy
Are sessions covered by my insurance?
I do not accept any form of private insurance. However, some clients may be eligible for reimbursement for sessions through their insurance providers. Please refer to the next question for more information. All Major credit cards accepted as well as FSA/HSA
How do I seek reimbursement from my insurance company?
I am not directly contracted with any private insurance companies. However, I do provide a Superbill, which you can submit to your insurance provider for reimbursement using your out-of-network benefits.
Do You accept Cen-Cal insurance?
I have a limited number of CENCAL (State Medi-Cal) slots available; however, these are currently not open. At this time, there is no waiting list.