Common questions
Everything you might want to know before reaching out.
01What happens in the first session?
It is 50 minutes and it is a conversation, not a test. We talk about when the worry started and what it costs you. I explain how I work, and you decide whether to go on. We do not start exposures on the first day.
02How often will we meet, and for how long?
Sessions are 50 minutes, usually weekly at the start. How long the work lasts depends on you and on what we are working on. I do not set a number of sessions in advance, and we review the pace together.
03Will you make me do things that frighten me?
Nothing happens that I have not explained first. Exposure steps are chosen with you, from easier to harder, and you can slow a step down or stop it.
04Are you licensed where I live?
I am a licensed psychologist in California. For video, you need to be in California during the session. If you live elsewhere, I can help you look for someone licensed there.
05Do you take my insurance?
I am out of network with insurance plans, so you pay the practice directly and can ask your plan to reimburse you. I do not bill Medicare or Medicaid.
06What is a superbill and how do I use it?
A superbill is an itemized monthly receipt you can send to your plan. It carries a diagnosis code, which your plan will see. Your plan decides whether it pays you back and how much.
07What is a Good Faith Estimate?
If you pay without insurance, you have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate of what your care will cost before you start, and I give you one in writing. If a bill is $400 or more above the estimate, you can dispute it. The estimate is not a contract. The page on fees has the details.
08How much does it cost, and can I use an HSA or FSA card?
You get my fee in writing before you book. HSA and FSA cards work for sessions. A limited number of reduced-fee sessions are held each month, so ask when you write.
09What is confidential, and what are the limits?
What you tell me stays between us, with limits the law sets: a risk of serious harm to you or someone else, or a report the law requires. I explain these at your first session.
10Can you see my teenager?
No. I see adults only. If you write, I can help you look for a clinician who works with teens, and who will explain how consent works in California.
11What is your cancellation policy?
I ask for 24 hours' notice to cancel or move a session, so the time can go to someone else.
12What do I do in a crisis?
Call or text 988, any time. In an emergency, call 911. I do not monitor messages around the clock, so please do not use this website in a crisis.
Still have questions?
Write to me. Asking a question is not a commitment.