Frequently asked questions.

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who has completed a residency in psychiatry and is licensed to prescribe medication for mental health conditions. Psychiatrists typically focus on evaluating symptoms, diagnosing psychiatric disorders, and managing treatment with psychotropic medications. A psychologist, by contrast, holds a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) in clinical psychology and has extensive training, often several thousand supervised hours, in psychotherapy and psychological assessment. Psychologists primarily provide talk therapy and psychological testing, working closely with patients to explore emotional patterns, develop insight, and support behavioral and relational change. The term “psychotherapist” is a broader designation that includes psychologists as well as master’s-level clinicians such as Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs) and Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), all of whom are trained to provide psychotherapy in California.

Yes. What we discuss in sessions is held in confidence with the following legally required exceptions: 1) if there is intent to harm yourself or someone else; 2) if there is suspected abuse of a minor, elder, or dependent adult; or 3) when a court orders disclosure. Outside of these, our work together is private. I also encourage discussing any concerns you have about privacy at our first meeting.

It’s perfectly normal to feel uncertain. Therapy doesn’t require a crisis or a specific diagnosis. If you’re noticing patterns, feeling disconnected from yourself or your relationships, or simply sense you have more to explore, that’s plenty of reason. We can always begin with a consultation to see if this feels like a good fit for you

In our first session, we’ll talk about what brought you in, your current life context, and what you’d like to change or understand. It’s also a chance for you to get a feel for how I work and decide if this is a good fit. We may explore patterns from your past and how they show up in your life now, always at a pace you can stay present with.

We typically start with weekly sessions to build momentum and containment, but the frequency can adjust when you’re feeling ready to discharge. Therapy isn’t about a set number of sessions, it’s about the work you’re ready to engage in. Some clients work for months, others for years, depending on your goals and what you're wanting to understand about yourself.

Online therapy sessions are held through SimplePractice, a secure, HIPAA-compliant telehealth platform. After scheduling your first appointment, you’ll receive a personalized link to your private patient portal, where you can easily join sessions, complete forms, and share documents safely. You’ll also receive automatic email reminders 48 hours, 24 hours, and 15 minutes before each session, each containing a direct link to join. SimplePractice allows you to upload and receive sensitive information confidentially, ensuring your privacy is always protected. Whether you connect from home, work, or a quiet place of your choice, online therapy offers the same depth and care as in-person sessions, with the comfort and flexibility to meet wherever you feel most at ease.

A Good Faith Estimate provides a transparent overview of the expected cost of therapy for clients who pay out of pocket or do not use insurance. It’s required under the No Surprises Act to help you understand and plan for the cost of your care. This will be provided to you in your intake paperwork if you choose to pay out of pocket.

To best honor the time we’ve reserved and maintain a consistent, safe space for you, I ask for at least 24 hours’ notice to cancel or reschedule an appointment. Cancellations made within 24 hours are billed at the full session fee, as that time is held exclusively for you and could otherwise be offered to someone who may be waiting for support. I understand that unexpected situations arise, if you experience an emergency, please reach out and we’ll do our best to find a solution together.

Please note that insurance policies do not reimburse late cancellations and no-shows.

Please note that I do not provide on-call or crisis services. If you are experiencing a mental health or medical emergency, please call or text 988 to reach the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or chat online at 988lifeline.org. If you are in immediate danger, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department.

For non-urgent matters, such as rescheduling, requesting an additional session, or following up on paperwork, you may email me directly. I respond to messages during regular business hours and do my best to reply within one business day.

I provide Emotional Support Animal (ESA) letters through an ethical and comprehensive process for clients who have been in treatment for at least 30 days. ESA letters are legal documents written by a licensed mental health professional confirming that an animal helps alleviate symptoms related to a diagnosed mental health condition such as anxiety, depression, or trauma. These letters grant housing rights protections and are issued only after a thorough clinical assessment to ensure all legal and ethical standards are met.