Frequently Asked Questions

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 What is your approach? My work is informed  by Cognitive Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Hypnotherapy. I find that the three together help you make changes both to your rational brain and your emotional brain. All my work is trauma-informed, meaning that I make every effort to work with you in a way that helps you feel respected, empowered, understood, and hopeful. I also recognize the interrelationships between trauma and symptoms of trauma such as substance abuse, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety. I am trained in Lifespan Integration, a copyrighted approach to healing trauma, particularly childhood trauma, which I have found to be quite effective.

How do I know if you are the right therapist for me?

The most central aspect of therapy is the caring relationship between the mental health professional and the client. Finding a therapist who is a "good fit" is therefore a key element to effective therapy. In order to get a sense of whether a therapist would be a "good fit", it helps to meet them first. That's why I offer a free initial consultation, in person or by phone. You can schedule an initial consultation by clicking the button at the bottom of this page.

What about insurance?

I accept all PPO plans. Even if I am not in your insurance network I can file insurance claims on your behalf to help you get reimbursed. 

What are sessions like?

We will meet for 60 minutes, typically once every week or two. I will take the time to fully assess what is happening in your life, so we can discover the sources of distress. We will establish goals for treatment together. At the end of most sessions you will receive suggestions for things to focus on at home, so that you end therapy not only feeling better, but with the skills to continue to make progress. 

Do you do phone or video sessions?

Yes, in addition to in-office sessions at my office in Ventura, I also offer phone and video sessions. That means that I can work with you even if you live in a different region, as long as you reside in California.

I'm going through a pretty hard time right now--should I start by going to the doctor, or going to a therapist?

If you are having trouble meeting your responsibilities due to depression or anxiety, or you feel you might be a danger to yourself or others, seeing a physician for a medication assessment is important. I strongly recommend, and at times insist, that clients with anxiety or depression symptoms, fatigue, trouble sleeping, or panic symptoms get a thorough physical exam and discuss their concerns with their physician to rule out any potential medical factors.

How often will we meet? 

The decision of how often to meet is up to you, although I do make suggestions based on my assessment of your level of need. I encourage most people to begin by having weekly sessions, to get some momentum going. After that, if you feel stable, every other week can be ideal, so you have more of a chance to reflect on and practice what you’ve learned. I may suggest meeting monthly towards the end of our work, to help you feel comfortable about ending. After that, you might choose to come in for a session or two during a difficult time, to help you stay on track with your progress.

How long does therapy take?

It depends a great deal on the complexity of the problems you are facing, and your commitment to the work. While some change happens quickly through moments of insight and understanding, most occurs through patient, ongoing application of new behaviors and ways of thinking. 

How Much Will it Cost?

My rates are 150.00/hour for individual therapy, and 160.00/hour for couples therapy.

You have a right to receive a “good faith estimate” explaining how much your medical and mental health care will cost. 

Under the law, health care providers need to give patients who don’t have insurance, or who are not using insurance, an explanation of the charges for medical services, including psychotherapy services.

You have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” for the total expected cost of any non-emergency healthcare services, including psychotherapy services.

You can ask your healthcare provider, and any other healthcare provider you choose, for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule a service.

If you receive a bill for at least $400.00 more than the estimate, you can dispute the bill. Make sure to save a copy or picture of your Good Faith Estimate.

For questions or more information about your Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises, or call (800) 985-3059.