FAQS

I'm available for in-person sessions in San Diego or online throughout California and Florida.

Location: 5052 Paramount Dr., San Diego, CA 92123

Online therapy, also known as teletherapy, telehealth, or virtual therapy, allows you to engage in therapy sessions with a licensed therapist through digital platforms. Here's how it typically works:

Initial Setup: To get started, you'll need a reliable internet connection, a device with a camera and microphone (such as a smartphone, tablet, or computer), and a private space where you can talk freely during your sessions. I'll provide you with instructions on how to access your session.

Scheduling Sessions: You'll schedule your therapy sessions just as you would for in-person therapy, but instead of going to a physical office, you'll meet with your therapist virtually. This is done through a HIPAA-compliant video conferencing platform to ensure your privacy and confidentiality.

During the Session: During your online therapy session, you'll have a face-to-face conversation with me through video. These sessions are conducted in real-time and are similar to traditional in-person sessions, where you discuss your thoughts, feelings, and concerns.

Benefits: Online therapy offers several benefits, including convenience, accessibility, and flexibility. It allows you to receive therapy from the comfort of your own home, which can be especially beneficial if you have a busy schedule, live in a remote area, or have mobility issues. It also provides continuity of care, allowing you to maintain regular sessions even if you travel or locate within the state.

Considerations: Although online therapy is effective for many people, it's important to ensure you have a private and quiet space for your sessions to avoid interruptions. Additionally, it may not be suitable for everyone, such as those experiencing severe mental health crises that require immediate, in-person intervention.

Online therapy can be a convenient and effective way to receive mental health support, offering flexibility and accessibility that traditional in-person therapy may not. If you're considering online therapy, let's discuss it to see if it's a good fit for your needs.

Yes, I offer in-person sessions for individual, relationship, and family counseling.

Initial Assessments

Assessment for Individual, Relationship, and Family Therapy: $250

Ongoing Therapy

Ongoing Psychotherapy Sessions for Individuals, Relationships, and Families: $225

Ongoing EMDR Sessions: $250

Group Therapy

60-minute Sessions: $75

90-minute Sessions: $100

Immigration Evaluations

Evaluation & Report: $1,000 - $1,500

Expedited Turnaround: +$200

Financial Aid: Need-based scholarships and reduced-fee spaces may be available. These spots are limited, and there is often a waitlist.

Apply for Financial Aid

Your first therapy appointment is an important step in beginning your journey toward better mental health and well-being. Here's what you can generally expect:

Introduction and Rapport Building: The session typically starts with introductions and a discussion about what brought you to therapy.

Review of Confidentiality and Consent: We'll review confidentiality policies and any legal exceptions to confidentiality. We'll also review consent forms and ensure you understand the therapy process and your rights.

Assessment and Information Gathering: I'll ask you questions about your history, current situation, and issues you want to address. This may include discussing your medical, psychological, and social history, as well as any previous therapy or treatment you've received.

Setting Goals: Together, we'll begin outlining the goals you want to achieve through therapy. This can include both short-term and long-term objectives. Setting clear goals helps provide direction and focus for your therapy sessions.

Explaining the Therapy Process: I'll explain the type of approach we'll be using and how it might be helpful for your specific concerns and what you can expect in future sessions.

Addressing Questions and Concerns: You'll have the opportunity to ask any questions you have about the therapy process, my qualifications, or any concerns you might have about starting therapy.

Initial Impressions and Planning: By the end of our first session, we'll have a better understanding of each other and the work that lies ahead. We'll discuss the frequency of sessions and any initial steps you can take before your next appointment.

The duration of therapy varies widely, depending on several factors, including the nature of the issues you're addressing, your personal goals, and your progress in therapy. Here are some key points to consider:

Short-Term Therapy: For some, therapy can be short-term, lasting from a few weeks to a few months. This is often the case for those dealing with specific issues or seeking to achieve a particular goal.

Long-Term Therapy: Others may benefit fron longer-term therapy, which can span several months to more than a year. Long-term therapy is typically more in-depth and can be beneficial for those dealing with complex or chronic issues, such as trauma, significant relationship problems, or deep-seated emotional difficulties.

Progress and Goals: The length of time you spend in therapy also depends on the progress you make toward your goals. We'll do periodic check-ins to determine whether you're meeting your objectives and if additional sessions are needed.

Type of Therapy: Different therapeutic approaches may have varying timelines, depending on the complexity of your situation.

Personal Preference: Ultimately, the duration of therapy is a personal decision. Some people choose to stay in therapy for ongoing support and personal growth, even after their initial goals have been achieved. I have some clients who have been with me for years because they desire ongoing support, and I have others I see for just a few months while they work toward achieving their goals.

A Good Faith Estimate (GFE) is a document that outlines the expected costs of medical or mental health services. It's provided to patients to ensure transparency and help them make informed decisions about their healthcare expenses. Here are the key points to understand about a Good Faith Estimate:

Purpose: The primary purpose of a GFE is to give patients a clear understanding of the potential costs associated with their treatment. This helps in avoiding unexpected bills and financial strain.

Legal Requirement: As of January 1, 2022, under the No Surprises Act, healthcare providers are required to provide a GFE for all uninsured or self-pay patients. This ensures patients are aware of their rights and the costs of services before receiving care.

Contents of a GFE: A Good Faith Estimate typically includes:

• A detailed list of the expected services

• The estimated cost for each service

• Any potential additional costs

• Information about the provider and the services to be rendered

When to Receive a GFE: You should receive a GFE before your first appointment or any scheduled service. This is usually included in your intake documentation.

Accuracy of Estimates: Although a GFE aims to provide an accurate estimate of costs, the actual costs may vary based on the specific services rendered and any unforeseen circumstances during treatment.

Patient Rights: Patients have the right to receive a GFE and to ask questions about the costs and services outlined in the estimate. If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than the GFE, you can dispute the charges.

How to Request a GFE: This document is normally provided along with informed consent, notice of privacy practices, and other intake documents. You can request an updated document at any time.

No, I do not accept insurance. Here's why:

Quality of Care: By not accepting insurance, I'm able to focus entirely on providing the highest quality of care tailored specifically to your needs. Insurance companies often impose limitations n the type and duration of therapy, which can interfere with the therapeutic process and the individualized care you deserve.

Privacy and Confidentiality: Without the involvement of insurance companies, your therapy records remain completely confidential between you and me. Insurance claims require me to give you a diagnosis, which may or may not fit your situation. Insurance companies require the disclosure of your diagnosis and treatment details, which can compromise your privacy.

Flexibility: Without the constraints imposed by insurance companies, we have the flexibility to determine the frequency and length of your sessions based on what is most beneficial for your progress, rather than what is covered by your insurance plan.

Administrative Burden: Handling insurance claims involves significant administrative work, which can detract from the time and energy I can devote to my clients. By not accepting insurance, I can focus more on providing effective therapy and less on paperwork.

Ethical Practice: Some insurance policies do not adequately cover mental health services, or they may only cover certain types of therapy. By not being bound to insurance guidelines, I can practice ethically, providing the types of therapy that are best suited to your needs rather than those that are covered by your insurance.

Affordable Alternatives: I understand that paying out-of-pocket can be a concern. To make therapy more accessible, I offer a limited amount of reduced-fee slots. I can also provide you with a superbill to submit to your insurance for possible reimbursement as an out-of-network provider.

Although I do not accept insurance, I am committed to working with you to find a payment plan that makes therapy accessible for you and rarely turn clients away.