FAQ
What is therapy?
Psychotherapy, or “therapy,” is the treatment of a person struggling emotionally through psychological means.
Psychotherapy with me will be a partnership or collaboration in which we develop your treatment goals and work on achieving those goals.
In therapy, goals are not only focused on symptoms but on regaining or building a satisfying and worthwhile life. My therapy modality is specialized and integrative to meet the person where they are.
I am happy to discuss this further during the consultation call.
What will therapy look like?
Therapy will be provided online via a secure video conferencing system (similar to Zoom). Sessions will not be in person; this practice is solely an online practice.
The first therapy session is a “getting to know you” session where you will share why you have decided to start treatment, and you can ask me questions about my practice. Additional questions and paperwork are reviewed in the first session, including background information and limits to confidentiality.
In-person psychotherapy sessions will be provided in San Diego, CA, starting in Fall 2025.
Do I need to have a diagnosis to be in therapy?
No, a Mental Health diagnosis is not required to receive mental health care.
There are many reasons that people attend therapy that have nothing to do with having a diagnosis, such as getting a divorce, losing a loved one, or adjusting to a new city.
Typically, a diagnosis is required if insurance is being used, in which case, the insurance company requires a diagnosis to justify treatment.
Do you accept insurance?
I accept insurance for clients in New York, Illinois, and California. In 2026, I will switch to a cash-only practice.
Do I have to dive deep into my past or talk about my parents?
No, the common misconception of therapy is that you will be sitting on the couch while I dive deep into your past. This is not the case.
The format will change depending on your needs and goals in therapy. I am focused on meeting you where you’re at and getting you on your way.
For some, we will need to discuss your past; however, my goal is to help you develop skills and move forward.
What are your hours?
Psychotherapy sessions are available on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays into the late evening and early morning. I am available via email and phone from 10 AM to 6 PM PST Monday through Friday.
How long are sessions?
Sessions range from 45 minutes to 90 minutes, depending on need. On average, most sessions last about 45 minutes, with extended sessions reserved for special needs.
How do I set up an initial appointment?
After the consultation call, an initial appointment is scheduled. If you want to schedule a consultation call, please make an appointment using the link below.
What should I expect to get out of this?
We work toward goals that are co-developed in session. Depending on your needs, you can expect a focus on meeting those goals if I do not specialize in your specific needs.
Why are you a psychologist?
I realized I wanted to become a psychologist during my undergraduate studies at the University of California, Davis.
I was volunteering at a shelter as a teaching assistant for 5th-grade children when I sat in on a group therapy session for the kids. After attending the session and observing the emotional trauma these kids had experienced, I realized how often people suffer from deep emotional wounds in silence.
After that, I volunteered at a lab at the Medical Center at UC Davis Health with parent reunification, worked at a Crisis residential house for serious persistent mental illness and eventually attended graduate school in San Francisco, CA.
I have always had a deep desire to help marginalized and underserved communities, and that passion has lived with me since childhood.