Frequently Asked Questions

I try to balance the use of evidence-based treatments and current scientific research with an understanding that therapy is, in a sense, an "art" that must be developed anew for each person. My style is integrative and eclectic, and I draw techniques from a number of different modalities depending on the needs of the client. 

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I provide individual therapy, couples/relationship therapy, and facilitate therapy groups. 

You can contact me via email, or phone to set up a free phone consultation. The consultation typically lasts about 15 minutes. During this time you can explain briefly your motivations for seeking therapy, you can ask me any questions you may have, and we can determine whether or not it will be a good fit. The first session (or two) takes the form of a more structured interview/evaluation process aimed at building an overview of your life and clinical needs. During this time we will build a collaborative treatment plan and proceed from there.

My practice is currently "out of network". If your insurance provides out of network benefits, I can provide what a receipt (called a"super bill") at the end of every month that you can submit to your insurance company for reimbursement (percentages and coverage vary based on plan). I can help walk you through this process if it is unfamiliar.

The standard session is 60 minutes long. Most clients start by coming once a week, but it can vary based on your individual needs. I also offer 90 minute sessions for couples. 

The short answer is that it varies. Some concerns can be resolved in several sessions, while some clients require (or simply want) more long-term support. My approach to therapy is collaborative and based on establishing shared goals, and the relationship concludes when you feel ready to move on. Even then, the door is always open for you to return if needed.

Seeking therapy requires no justification beyond the desire to talk to someone, or the desire to learn more about yourself. Manuals like the DSM-V are used by clinicians to identify patterns and categorize clusters of clinically relevant symptoms in order to focus treatment. Diagnostic categories are constructs that are continually being re-conceptualized as we learn more and the field evolves. These categories can help us understand and generalize about the types of problems someone is facing, but they certainly cannot capture the full complexity of any human being. Also, there are many kinds of human problems and concerns that are not found in the DSM.

In couples therapy, the relationship is my client, and my loyalty is to the needs of the relationship. This type of therapy is about providing a safe and consistent space to pursue goals like increasing intimacy, improving communication, building trust, or working through conflict more effectively. Typically, I will start by meeting both of you together, then will meet with each individually, and then together again, though this can vary based on your particular needs. I offer longer (90 minute) sessions for couples, as this is sometimes necessary. I work with traditional and non-traditional relationships, and am LGBTQIA+ affirming.