Starting therapy can feel like a big step. This page covers the topics I’m most often asked about, from what to expect in sessions to how to prepare for your first appointment. I hope these answers provide clarity and help you feel more confident about beginning this process.
Therapy for adults in california
starting therapy can be overwhelming
I’m happy to start with a free 15-minute call. I’ll answer any questions you have for me and tell you about how I work. It’s important that you feel this is the right fit for you.
Your first session is an intake, during which I’ll ask you lots of questions about your current concerns and other parts of your life and background. It’s normal to feel nervous before an initial session, especially if you haven’t done therapy before.
We’ll talk about your goals for care, my initial thoughts on our plan, and next steps. I’ll make suggestions for things to try before we next meet.
how to get started
01/
I am in-network with Aetna. My out-of-network rate for a 50-minute session is $200. Paying for sessions yourself offers the most flexibility for your care.
I can provide you a superbill to submit to your insurance to request reimbursement for fees. To learn more about what you can expect to be reimbursed you can review your Summary of Benefits. You can find this in your company’s benefit packet if your insurance is through your job. Also check your health insurance website.
It may help to call your insurance directly. (If that sounds like a hassle, it can be very useful to have more information upfront.) Click here for questions to ask.
You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency items or services. For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises
fees & insurance
02/
- Do I need a referral from an in-network provider to see an out-of-network provider?
- What is my out-of-network deductible for outpatient mental health care?
- How much of my deductible have I already met this year?
- What is my out-of-network coinsurance for outpatient mental health care?
- How do I submit claim forms for out-of-network reimbursement? (Claims are forms that are sent to your insurance company to receive reimbursement for sessions you paid for out-of-pocket at the time of the service.)
questions to ask your insurance company
I ask for at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule our session, with exceptions for medical emergencies for you or a family member.
cancellation policy
rescheduling made simple
I offer sessions online and in a comfortable office in the heart of Pasadena. Some people elect to start in-person and transition to meeting online, or the other way around.
in person or online
wherever you're comfortable
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