Getting Started with Therapy

The first step is simply to contact me. You can reach out through my contact form, email, or phone to ask questions or request a consultation.

During our initial conversation, we can briefly discuss what brings you or your child to therapy and whether my services may be a good fit for your needs.

If it seems like we may be a good fit, we can discuss the next steps and schedule an initial appointment.

The first session is an opportunity for me to get to know you and better understand your concerns.

For children and teenagers, I may begin by meeting with the parent or caregiver to gather information about your concerns, your child's history, and what you hope to get out of therapy. Depending on the child's age and needs, I may also spend time getting to know your child during the first session.

You don't need to prepare the “perfect” answers. The first session is simply the beginning of getting to know each other and understanding what support may be helpful.

Children don't always express themselves through words. Depending on your child's age, personality, and needs, therapy may include conversation, play, art, creative activities, and other therapeutic approaches.

My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where children can express themselves and begin to better understand their thoughts and feelings.

Therapy is not about forcing a child to talk or making them share before they are ready. Building trust and a strong therapeutic relationship is an important part of the process.

Parents play an important role in a child's life, and I believe parent involvement can be an important part of the therapeutic process.

The level of parent involvement may look different depending on your child's age and needs. I may meet with parents to gather information, discuss concerns, provide support, or talk about ways to support your child outside of therapy.

At the same time, it is also important for children and teenagers to have a space where they can feel comfortable sharing. I work to balance parent involvement with the child's or teenager's need for privacy and trust.

The frequency of therapy depends on each client's needs and goals.

Many clients begin with regular sessions to build consistency and develop a strong therapeutic relationship. As therapy progresses, we can continue to discuss what frequency feels appropriate.

We will work together to find a schedule that best supports you or your child.

Yes. I offer online therapy for clients who are physically located in California at the time of their session.

Telehealth can be a convenient option for individuals and families who are unable to attend sessions in person or who prefer the flexibility of meeting online.

For children, online therapy can still be engaging and interactive. I also offer a virtual play therapy room, along with activities and other interactive approaches when appropriate.

Before getting started, we can discuss whether telehealth is a good fit for you or your child.

My fee is $195 per session. Sessions are 45-50 minutes in length. 

I am an out-of-network provider and do not bill insurance directly. Depending on your insurance plan, you may be able to use your out-of-network benefits for partial reimbursement.

For more information about fees, insurance, and out-of-network reimbursement, please refer to my Fees & Insurance page.

There is no one answer because every person and family has different needs.

Some clients may seek therapy for support around a specific concern, while others may benefit from longer-term support. We can regularly talk about your goals and whether therapy continues to feel helpful.

You are not expected to know at the beginning how long therapy will last.