What to expect in therapy

Can we speak before having a face to face meeting?

Yes. Prior to meeting in person, it can be very helpful to speak on the phone (approx. 15 minutes) to discuss your reasons for seeking therapy, address any questions you have for me, and mutually decide whether to proceed to schedule an in-person appointment. Schedule a consultation
How can I make an appointment?

If you would like to talk about working together, or learn more about what to expect, please click here to schedule your free 15 minute consultation If you are a current client, log in here to make a counseling appointment, check out your billing, and fill out forms online. Please note that due to limits of technology, email is not a guaranteed form of confidential communication. If you are experiencing a crisis, you should call 911 or go to your nearest Emergency Room.
What will therapy be like?

Therapy • Can be an impetus for personal growth and exploration • One way individuals work on improving aspects of their lives they are dissatisfied with • Can involve reducing symptoms such as depressed mood, worry, or difficulty sleeping • May focus on coping with, and healing from, painful life events and traumas I will work with you from a supportive, empathic framework. Together, we will examine what goals you have for your life and how therapy may help you reach these goals. The first meeting includes discussing what brings you to therapy, goals for therapy, and background information that gives context to your concerns. We will pay attention to your thougts, feelings, and behaviors, and explore any ways your relationships, family, and cultural contexts relate to your presenting concerns. I attend to your unique, individual needs while using an integrated interpersonal, multicultural and cognitive-behavioral theoretical orientation. I offer counseling interventions that are culturally appropriate and grounded in psychological literature.
What forms of payment do you take, and do you take insurance?"

I accept payment by cash, check, or credit card at the time of service. I am not currently on any insurance panels, but can provide a super bill for you to submit to your insurance for possible reimbursement, according to your individual plan. I am a Lyra Health Provider. Check with your employer to see if Lyra Health Benefits apply to you. You can also search under "members" on www.lyrahealth.com to find out if your company provides this benefit.
What does it mean that therapy is confidential?

As a licensed psychologist in the state of California, I have the ethical and legal duty to keep client information confidential. Confidentiality helps create an environment where clients can openly disclose personal information they may not share otherwise. There are some legal exceptions to confidentiality, which will be covered during our first meeting.
How much does therapy cost?

Please call for rates. 510-390-4147 or Schedule Introductory Call to discuss. I am not currently on any insurance panels, but can provide a super bill for you to submit to your insurance for possible reimbursement, according to your individual plan. I am a Lyra Health Provider. Check with your employer to see if Lyra Health Benefits apply to you. You can also search under "members" on www.lyrahealth.com to find out if your company provides this benefit.
How long is therapy?

The reasons a client comes to therapy influence what is focused on during sessions and how long therapy continues. Typically, therapy sessions occur weekly and last for 50 minutes.