FAQs

How do I get started?

1

Getting started is simple. Reach out through my “book a consult” page either by choosing an available time on the calendar or by sending an email to me directly. I also accept text messages if that is your preferred way to communicate. We will then meet for an inital consultation and go from there.

How do inital consultations work?

2

I offer a free 15–20 minute consultation over Zoom so we can get a sense of one another. This time isn’t a therapy session—it’s a chance to see how it feels to connect. You’re welcome to share a little about what brings you to therapy, ask any questions you have, and get a feel for my approach.

I’ll also share how I work and what you can expect from therapy with me. The goal is simple: to help both of us determine whether this feels like a good fit before moving forward.

I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?

3

Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the ability to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. You already have some strengths that you’ve used before, that for whatever reason isn’t working right now. Perhaps this problem feels overwhelming and is making it difficult to access your past strengths. In our work together, I’ll help you identify what those strengths are and how to implement them again in what is happening now.

Do you accept insurance?

4

I do not accept insurance and am considered a private-pay provider. This choice is intentional. Working outside of insurance allows me to offer care that is more flexible, personalized, and aligned with your needs (especially for queer and trans folks)—not just with what insurance will authorize.

Private pay also protects your privacy. Insurance companies often require a diagnosis and access to treatment notes to determine “medical necessity,” which can limit the kind of work we do together. By staying independent from insurance, we’re able to focus on your goals, your pace, and the type of healing that feels right for you.

How much do you charge?

5

My out-of-pocket rates are dependent on the type of therapy you are seeking. Individual sessions are $150/50 min session; couples and family diads are $170/50 min session; and three or more client sessions are $190/50 min session I also reserve a limited number of sliding-scale spots; please inquire.

Do you provide superbills if I have out-of-network benefits?

6

Yes, if you have out-of-network benefits, I’m happy to provide a superbill that you can submit to your insurance for potential reimbursement.

I’d recommend asking these questions to your insurance provider to help determine your benefits:

  • Does my health insurance plan include mental health benefits?

  • Am I allotted any out-of-network benefits, whether that be partial or full reimbursement for sessions I pay for?

What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?

7

The difference is between someone who can do something, and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, therapy is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, if you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.

Shouldn’t I just take medication?

8

I am an advocate for psychotropic medication when indicated; however, medication alone cannot solve all issues. What medication does is treat the symptoms. Our work together is designed to explore the root of the issue, dig deep into your behavior and teach strategies that can help you accomplish your personal and/or relational goals.

Medication can be effective and is sometimes needed in conjunction with therapy.

How long will it take?

9

Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time therapy can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek therapy in the first place. I am open to collaborating with you on the length of your treatment.

I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?

10

I am so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication is crucial to your success. After all, we only see each other for a session a week. It’s the work you do outside of our sessions that will really help you see your personal growth and development.

How does family involvement work with teens who are seeking support with gender?

11

I typically start with a free consultation over Zoom to get a sense of the situation and needs; if we decide to work together, I will meet with everyone (usually separately) in the first few sessions for assessment and then offer my opinion about how much family involvement may be necessary or helpful. If the focus is on gender-related exploration or transition support, family involvement is often an important part of the process. Quite often, I end up working solely with the teen and doing parent check-ins or intermittent support-focused sessions.