What issues do you support?
I treat Adults with Anxiety and Mood, OCD and Related Disorders, Depressive and Bipolar Related Disorders, Trauma and AdjustmentDisorders, Eating Disorders and Substance Use, Borderline and Personality Disorders, Relational Issues, Life Transitions, Complex Grief, Insomnia, and support for LGBTQIA community when needed .
I have never been to therapy before. What do I expect?
Many come to therapy to learn new ways ofthinking, manage anxiety, depression, stress, or learn ways to create change in ways tofind fulfillment in life again. I honor that coming to a complete stranger to discuss life’s challenges may seem daunting. I am here to compassionately meet you where you are atby providing a safe, supportive space. Together we can explore ineffective patterns, and work on strengthening coping , communication, problem solving skills, self compassion, as well as ways to deepen relationships for lasting change.
What is a Marriage and Family Therapist ( MFT)?
MFTs are highly trained mental health professionals who bring relational perspectives to health care. They evaluate and treat mental,emotional,and behavioral disorders withindividual, couples, and family counseling,as well as assistwithgroup therapy.A MFT’s role is not to advise you ondecisions, but instead assist you in finding your own path.
Can you see individuals as a MFT?
Yes! MFTs absolutely may see individuals with all facets of issues.This is not an uncommon concern that wehear over and over againdue to the confusion of the name and our licensingumbrella .
Does what we talk about stay confidential?
Confidentiality is important for a therapeuticalliance. I cannot legally release information about you without obtaining your written permission, except for the following cases : 1)Reasonable suspicion of abuseofchildren, dependent adults, or elders,2) Reasonable suspicion that you are in serious danger of harming yourself or others, and3) Ifthere isa court order from a judge. Please note: I will review these policies in depth and encourage any questions surrounding the limits of your confidentiality.
Do you offer Free Phone Consultations, and what happens on our first visit?
Yes, this is a great way for us to see if we are a good fit, and to answer any of your questions.On our first visit we will expand on our phone consultation by gathering medical and psychological history, key events, relationships, current stressors,and goals you would like to achieve.
How many sessions will I need?
I am solution focused and believe in supporting your own journey to complete therapy. As each individual differs in the intensity and length ofissue, I always encourage a collaborative effortto seewhat is best for you, and to support time frames for your discharge. CBT protocol usually suggests 10 to 12 sessions, but again somemaychooseshorter or longer periods of time for therapy.You are never required to return after a session, that is unless there is an encouragement to return due to acrisis. I am also ethically bound to refer you to another clinician if needed, or terminate if you are not benefiting from our time together.
How much does a session cost, what’s included, and do you cover insurance?
Due to the enormous challengesof billing and seeking reimbursements from providers,I only offerprivate payoptions. However, if needed I am happy to provide a superbill to submit to your provider.My private fees are currently$220.00for a full 50mins, and payment is due after each session. Sessions include assessments, clarifying goals, allowing a space for you to process emotions, introducing grounding skills,and structuringmeaningful interventionsthat are individualized. After each session,you will then receive a visual tool and homework to practice these skills in real life. Please know,if needed I am happy to refer you to other providers that I can refer you to if you choose to use your insurance.
Do you Offer Sliding Scale ?
For those that need asliding scale, please feel free to inquire. I have allotted slots for reduced sessions and these may depend on providingyourannual income.If there are no open times,I will be happy to add you to my wait list, or refer you to a talented clinician that would best fit your financial needs.
What if I need to cancel?
If you need to cancelI require a 24 hour cancellation orthe full fee will be charged. Once a time slot is reserved and there is a no show, I am unable to fill in that appointment time. Please know this is not to blame anyone, but a logistical aspect to support my business.Therefore, you will be asked to fill out a CC authorization form atyour first session that I will keep on file, and use only in the case of a late cancellation. If there is a cancellation for the first session, I will then ask that the informed consent and CC form be filled out prior to our first meeting.
Can you provide services to write letters for Emotional Animals, Disability Advocacy or assessments, testifyin CourtHearingsorDepositions asapercipient or expertwitness?
Due to a conflict of interest and hope to assist youonly in your therapeuticgoals, I do not wish to voluntarilyprovide services to advocate for Emotional SupportAnimals, assist in court proceedings, or disability assessmentsthat would include: testimony,letter writing,or signing declarations, as theseall may evolve past my role to help you with your emotional goals,leading tounethical, dualforensic relationships. Please note, by law there may be some circumstances in which I may receive acourt orderto testify on your behalf. Therefore, as part of my informed consent, I require fees if theserare circumstances arise.