FAQs
FAQs
What Can I Expect in Therapy?
After our initial contact over phone or email, we will schedule our first session. Once you arrive for your first appointment, you will fill out some brief forms and then we will discuss what prompted you to seek therapy as well as your overall goals. I meet with clients for 50 minute sessions on a weekly basis, unless otherwise specified. Sessions begin and end on time and I require 24 hours notice for an appointment change to ensure consistency.
How long should be in therapy?
The process and length of therapy can look different for different people. For some, therapy can be short-term with the goal of addressing a specific issue. For others, therapy might be more long-term in order to deal with difficult existing patterns or to address goals of personal development.
How is talking to a therapist different than to a close friend?
Many of us have close friends who also happen to be good listeners. Their advice and support are irreplaceable and of utmost value. Therapy is not meant to replace or override these relationships. Working with a therapist is different than confiding in a close friend. Read about some of those differences here.
I often like to use the analogy of working on a car to explain the difference of speaking with a friend versus therapist. Friends can help you fix the immediate problem – like helping you to tighten up some loose screws on the engine…a therapist can help you to make sense of differing life aspects, integrate past experiences, and promote change moving into the future – like helping you to disassemble and reassemble the engine.
Do you accept insurance & what are your fees?
No I do not accept insurance, however I can provide you with an itemized receipt (superbill) at the end of each month that you may submit directly to your insurance provider for reimbursement. I am considered an “out of network” provider. Ask your insurance if they offer out of network mental health benefits on your plan.
My fee is $135 per 50 minute session. I have a limited number of sliding scale slots dependent on income level.
Do I really need therapy?
Tending to one’s emotional and mental health is as vital (if not more so) to human satisfaction as is caring for one’s physical health. Nurturing ourselves by eating healthy and engaging in regular exercise are habits that are widely accepted as beneficial. Why should we treat our mental, emotional, or relational health any different? Therapy doesn’t have to be a last ditch effort - although it works for that as well - maybe things just aren’t clicking or changing in your life even though you’re trying to create change. You might feel stuck in painful patterns and at a loss as to why. Therapy can be a helpful tool for anyone desiring change, growth, or healing.
What is my part in therapy?
To me, therapy is a collaborative effort in which we work together to meet your goals. Your active participation and dedication to the process are crucial for growth.
What I bring: My clinical expertise and training in human behavior and relational dynamics, along with providing a safe atmosphere for healing and growth.
What you bring: Years of expertise on being YOU! As well as a strong commitment and motivation to remain on the journey towards your own healing.
Is talking about my issues enough?
The expression of thoughts and emotions can be one of the most powerful tools for change. Identifying and adapting harmful thought patterns or deep seeded beliefs through talking can create a shift in how we view/interact with the world and ourselves. That’s pretty darn powerful.
Is talking always enough? No, not always. But thankfully the therapeutic toolbox expands beyond words. I implement many mindfulness, relaxation, and art techniques into therapy for a holistic approach. I can also recommend additional resources outside of therapy depending on your needs.
Who do you generally see in your office?
I work with adolescents, couples, and individuals struggling with loss, trauma, or relational distress. My therapeutic scope enables me to work with a variety of clients concerning a wide range of topics.
Where is your office located?
My office is in Newport Beach near John Wayne Airport. My address is: 4060 Campus Drive, Suite 110, Newport Beach, California.
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: (714)248-5680