NEW CLIENTS

Your First appointment

Prior to your first session, I will ask you to complete some paperwork online. These forms include informed consents, demographic information, your strengths and resources, and your mental health struggles that you want to share.
During your first visit, I will get to know you and what is bringing you into therapy at this time. It's helpful for me to know a little about your mental health history, relationship dynamics and any prior experiences in therapy.
There is no need for you to share everything at the beginning, as trust is built over time.
Beginning therapy

Ready to begin?

Schedule your free 15-minute phone consultation today.

Book a Free Consult
WHAT IT'S LIKE TO WORK WITH ME

Your journey, step by step

01
Beginning

Getting Started

I start by compassionately listening to your story and creating a safe space for healing to unfold.

02
Middle

Exploring Together

Together we explore and reflect on your experiences, beliefs and feelings while incorporating tools that support positive change.

03
End

Finding Closure

Once you have obtained your desired state of being, I help to create a gentle conclusion to our work while providing you with an ongoing plan to support your emotional well-being.

FEES

Investment in your well-being

Private Pay

I do not accept insurance plans. My standard rate is $195 per session, and I am able to slide to $150. Please discuss the fee that works for you prior to your first session. Payments are due on the day of the service and are billed through IvyPay. Generally, I raise my rates by $10 on January 1st of each year.

If you need a superbill to receive reimbursement through your insurance, please let me know. Many insurance companies will reimburse a portion of fees for out-of-network providers.

EAP Plans

I accept some EAP plans, so you may be connected with me through your employer's EAP program. If this is the case, I will be sent an authorization for a certain number of sessions. After those sessions are completed, it would be up to you to continue payments if you would like ongoing services.

Octave

I work with a platform called Octave. If you are referred to me this way, your insurance will be billed directly through Octave and no money will be exchanged between us.

LOGISTICS

What to expect

Policy

Cancellation

I ask that you provide at least 48 hours notice (2 days) if you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment. If appointments are cancelled with less notice or missed, you will be charged the full fee for your session.

Remote

Teletherapy

The majority of my clients I meet with through Google Meet. It is necessary for you to have solid internet connection and a private space. For Brainspotting, use of a computer instead of a phone is necessary. Through teletherapy, I can meet with clients located anywhere within California.

In-Person

Office

My office is located at 400 Estudillo Ave. Suite 200. As the parking lot is only for employees, please use street parking (there is plenty) or park in the library lot next door. I will greet you in the waiting room at the beginning of our scheduled session.

Outdoor

Ecotherapy

If you are interested in Ecotherapy sessions outside, please discuss with me. We will first meet online or in the office until we both determine it is the right time to shift to outside sessions. I meet with people in parks, generally in Oakland or Castro Valley. We will plan a meeting place in advance, and will incorporate the natural world into the healing process.

Duration

Session Length & Frequency

Sessions are 45–50 minutes. It is recommended to start with weekly sessions if possible to build rapport and gain momentum. I do meet every other week with people even at the start if weekly isn't possible. For long-term clients, I will sometimes reduce the frequency of sessions.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to know what I want to work on before coming in?
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No, this is something we can navigate together. Some people start with a clear goal and others are unsure or interested in general self-reflection and support.
How long does therapy usually last?
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I know that you want to feel better as soon as possible, and therapy is costly. Unfortunately, I can't give you any specific time-frame as it completely depends on your goals and healing process. I can tell you that I will regularly review your progress with you to make sure we are on the right track.
Is therapy only for people who are in crisis?
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No, therapy can be beneficial for anyone who wants support with their mental health. Although there is sometimes a stigma, going to therapy doesn't mean you're unable to function. Therapy can help you work through a specific challenge, attend to consistent themes, and/or help to promote growth and wellness.
How often will sessions be and how long is each session?
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It is recommended to start with weekly sessions if possible so as to build rapport and gain momentum with your process. However, I do meet every other week with people even at the start if weekly isn't possible for financial or scheduling reasons. For long-term clients, I will sometimes reduce the frequency. Sessions are 45–50 minutes.
Is what I share in therapy confidential?
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Yes, your privacy is of utmost importance. The only legal reasons why I would have to break confidentiality is if you disclose child or elder/dependent abuse, inform me that you are thinking about hurting yourself or someone else, or I receive a court order. I will review these exceptions with you in our first session.
How do I know you are the right therapist?
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Finding the right therapist can make all the difference in your healing process. It is necessary for you to feel comfortable and heard, as well as having a therapist who is skilled in the areas you are looking for support in. I am always open to feedback if you would like something to be tweaked. And I am happy to refer you to a different therapist if you feel like we are not the right fit.

Take the first step toward healing.

Reaching out can feel hard, but you don't have to navigate this alone.