Frequently Asked Questions

Thinking about starting therapy can be scary, and most people have questions about what to expect. Here are some answers to common questions people have.

For any additional information, please reach out to (424) 209-2175 to schedule a free consultation with me.

  • Yes! Talk therapy works for most people. In fact, research shows that about 75% of people benefit from therapy. It improves emotional well-being, self-awareness, coping skills, and even rewires your brain through neuroplasticity. Modern therapy is rooted in the scientific method, meaning effective practices have been researched and validated to yield significant change.

    Many people who could benefit from therapy never seek it due to stigma around mental health. The truth is that our mental health is just as important as our physical health. Know that seeking professional support is a strength rather than a weakness.

    The full benefit of therapy does depend on some additional various factors including therapist fit, commitment to treatment, and realistic expectations. Therefore it is important that you feel out and discuss these considerations with a provider at the onset of treatment.

  • The first session is an opportunity for me to explore more about what brings you in, and an opportunity for you to further assess whether we will be a good fit together. You may be asked questions about your relevant background information, and I will strive to better understand your values and needs. I will also want to make sure any questions you might have get answered.

    It is also important that our first session includes developing a treatment plan together. That means we will discuss and outline collaborative goals to work on. I prioritize making sure you feel safe, comfortable, and supported in our therapeutic relationship. If it seems like we will be a good fit to work together, my goal is for you to walk away from the first session feeling confident about the direction of therapy.

  • The duration of time it takes for therapy to yield improvement varies on a case-by-case basis. Much like a physical injury, mental health issues can be mild to severe. Many evidence-based psychotherapy protocols are typically comprised of 12 sessions (and 50 minutes per session). In general, it can take anywhere between 6-20 sessions of therapy typically to see clinically significant results.

    The outcome of therapy is largely contingent on your commitment to change and how much you apply therapy content to your life outside of session. People often begin attending therapy on a weekly basis and then adjusting the frequency of sessions as needed over time. We will regularly check in about your goals in therapy to ensure your needs are being satisfactorily addressed.

  • Yes. What is said in therapy stays in therapy, aside from a few exceptions by law that require confidentiality to be broken. This includes a court order or situations where there appears to be imminent risk of harm to oneself or another. We will have the chance to more thoroughly review this when we meet.

  • I currently see clients both in-person and virtually. I can meet face-to-face in my office in Santa Monica, California, or virtually on a secure video platform to anyone residing in the state of California. Offering both formats provides greater flexibility to my clients.

  • Individual therapy sessions are $275 for a 50-minute appointment. Payment is due at the time of session.

    Payment may be made via debit, credit, HSA/FSA, Zelle, Venmo, cash, or check.

    I do not accept insurance at this time. If you have out-of-network behavioral health coverage, your insurance may reimburse you for psychotherapy. I am happy to provide a monthly “superbill” in the case you may submit one to your insurance for reimbursement.

  • In the case of a psychiatric emergency, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.

    You may also call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.