Frequently Asked Questions
Starting therapy can feel like a big step, and it’s completely normal to have questions.
Below you’ll find answers about what it’s like to work together, what therapy looks like, and what to expect along the way. If something isn’t covered here, you’re always welcome to reach out.
Getting Started
How do I know if you’re the right therapist for me?
Therapy works best when you feel safe, understood, and able to be yourself. If you’re thoughtful or wanting to be, curious about what’s beneath the surface, and tired of holding everything together on your own, we may be a good fit.
My style is warm, collaborative, and depth-oriented - we explore your patterns, relationships, and inner world with curiosity and care.
What does it mean to be a “good fit”?
A good fit means you feel seen, supported, and gently challenged. It doesn’t require having everything figured out - just a sense that this is a space where you can be honest. You might feel aligned with my work if:
You’re reflective or wanting to build insight
You tend to overthink or overfunction
You’re craving more clarity, ease, or authenticity
You’re open to exploring your past, patterns, and inner experiences
If you’re seeking highly structured, short-term, worksheet-based therapy, I may not be the best match. I’ll gladly offer referrals if needed.
What if we’re not a good fit?
That’s completely okay. I’m happy to help you find someone who feels right - this work is too important to settle.
How do I schedule a first session?
Start by scheduling a free 15-minute phone consultation. We’ll talk about what’s bringing you in, answer any questions, and see if working together feels right. If so, we’ll schedule your first full session.
What states do you work in?
I’m licensed to provide therapy in both California, Pennsylvania and Oregon. As long as you are physically located in one of those three states at the time of our sessions, we can work together. All sessions are virtual, so you can meet with me from the comfort of your own home.
What Therapy Is Like
What is therapy with you like?
I’m relational, intuitive, and collaborative. I show up as a real person - warm, steady, and curious (and often with a sense of humor) - and invite you to do the same. Therapy may include exploring your past, relationships, inner dialogue, emotions, or values, all in service of deeper self-understanding and meaningful change.
What kinds of things do people come to therapy for?
People come for many reasons:
Big transitions (parenthood, breakups, career shifts)
Anxiety, overthinking, perfectionism, burnout
Feeling disconnected or unsure of themselves
Grief, loss, or unresolved past experiences
Desire for more clarity, insight, or self-compassion
If you’re wondering whether therapy could help, that’s often reason enough to start.
Structure and Scheduling
What should I expect during my first session?
Before we meet, you’ll receive a welcome email with paperwork and telehealth instructions. In the first session, we’ll talk about what brings you in and what you’re hoping for. We’ll go at your pace - there’s no pressure to share everything at once.
How long are sessions, and how often do we meet?
Sessions are 50 minutes long and typically held once a week at the same time each week. Weekly consistency helps build momentum and creates a steady space for reflection and growth.
Are sessions virtual, or in person?
All sessions are currently offered virtually through a secure, HIPAA-compliant telehealth platform. You can join from anywhere in California, Pennsylvania, or Oregon - from your home, office or wherever you feel most comfortable.
What if I need to cancel or reschedule a session?
If something comes up, just let me know at least 24 hours in advance. If we’re able to reschedule for the same week, there’s no cancellation fee. Otherwise, late cancellations or missed sessions are billed at the full rate.
Payment and Insurance
What is your fee?
Each 50-minute session is $210 for individuals and $240 for couples.
Can I use my insurance?
I’m not in-network, but I provide monthly superbills for possible out-of-network reimbursement. Coverage varies by plan.
Can I use my FSA/HSA?
Yes! Therapy is an eligible expense under most Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA). Please confirm with your plan.
Do you offer sliding scale rates?
I occasionally have sliding-scale openings depending on caseload. Please ask during the consultation if cost is a concern.
Therapeutic Relationship and Confidentiality
Do I need to be married or bring family members?
No. As an LMFT, I’m trained with a relational and systemic lens. You don’t need to be married or involve anyone else if you are looking for individual therapy - this space is for you.
How does confidentiality work?
What you share is private with a few legal exceptions:
Imminent risk of harm to yourself or someone else
Suspected abuse of a child, elder, or dependent adult
Court orders or legal requirements
Your written consent to coordinate care with another provider
We’ll review these during your intake so you know exactly what to expect.
Couples Therapy FAQ
What is couples therapy like with you?
Couples therapy with me is relational, steady, and collaborative. I help partners slow down enough to really hear each other, understand what’s happening beneath recurring patterns, and create more space for connection. We look at both the emotional dynamics between you and the internal experiences within each partner without blame or defensiveness. My role is to help you see the cycle you’re caught in and work together to shift it.
Do we need to be in a crisis to start couples therapy?
Not at all. Many couples come in because things feel “off”, not necessarily broken. You might feel distant, stuck in small miscommunications, or like you keep replaying the same argument. Couples therapy can be most effective before things escalate.
What kinds of couples do you work best with?
I work best with couples who are:
open to reflection and curiosity
willing to understand their patterns
interested in emotional connection and communication
wanting to rebuild closeness, not assign blame
navigating transitions like new parenthood, career shifts, or long-term partnership questions
This work is ideal for partners who want depth, insight, and a steadier emotional connection.
Are there situations that need a different kind of support?
Some relationship situations benefit from more specialized or intensive care than I provide in this space. If, during our consultation or early sessions, it seems like a different type of support would be more beneficial, I’ll share that openly and help guide you toward appropriate resources. My priority is making sure you receive the level of care that truly supports your relationship.
Do we need to attend sessions together?
Yes, all couples sessions are joint. Occasionally, I may meet briefly with each partner individually if it will support the work, but this is always discussed openly with both partners. Transparency is essential.
How often do we meet?
Most couples meet once per week to keep momentum and maintain consistency. Some choose biweekly once things start to stabilize, but weekly sessions are recommended at the beginning.
What happens in the first session?
We’ll explore:
what brings you in
the patterns you want to understand or shift
each partner’s perspective on the relationship
your hopes and goals for therapy
You don’t need to prepare anything, just come as you are. The first session is about getting grounded and setting the foundation.
What if one of us is hesitant about therapy?
That’s extremely normal! We’ll talk openly about concerns, fears, or past therapy experiences. My goal is not to convince anyone, but to create a space where each partner feels included, respected, and understood. Often, hesitancy softens once partners experience how grounded and non-blaming the process can be.
Do you take insurance for couples therapy?
I do not accept insurance, but I can provide a superbill for out-of-network reimbursement if your plan allows it. Many insurance plans do not reimburse for couples therapy specifically, so it’s a good idea to check with your provider. HSA/FSA cards can often be used as well.
How do we get started?
Start by scheduling a free 15-minute consultation. It’s a chance to share what’s going on, ask questions, and get a feel for whether we’d be a good match. There’s no pressure - just a thoughtful conversation to help you take the next step.
Still have questions?
It’s completely understandable - starting therapy is a big step, and you deserve to feel informed and supported along the way.
If something wasn’t covered here or you’re just not sure where to begin, feel free to reach out or schedule a free 15-minute consultation. I’m happy to help you find what feels right and take the next step at your own pace.