Frequently Asked Questions

Where are you located?

I have two offices – one in Solvang and one in Santa Barbara. Here are the addresses:

684 Alamo Pintado Road
Suite D
Solvang, CA 93463

924 Anacapa Street
Suite 2-I
Santa Barbara, CA 93101

What are your office hours?

My office hours are Monday to Friday, 11 am to 6 pm.

I see clients by appointment only.

What is a free initial phone consultation?

This is a brief phone call, usually 20 minutes long, to help YOU decide if I am the right therapist for you.

The steps to get an initial phone consultation are: 1) Call me or email me to ask for an initial consultation. 2)I’ll reply with the day/times available to schedule the call. 3) I’ll call on the time day to have our initial phone call.

Do you take insurance?

The short answer: No, I do not take insurance.

The long answer…

My approach with my therapy clients is collaborative, curious, and non-pathologizing. I have a deep understanding of how we have adapted to our life circumstances, and I see your difficulties as an adaptation rather than a diagnosis. You should also be free to choose the frequency, length, and number of sessions you need. All of these things are restricted when insurance pays the bill.

However, if you want to use your insurance and have a plan that includes coverage for out-of-network providers, I am happy to supply you with a monthly invoice (“Superbill”) that you can submit for reimbursement (typically, a percentage of my fee is covered). Check with your plan directly to verify your coverage.

How much sessions cost?
Individual sessions are $200.00.
Couple sessions are $250.00.
Do you offer a sliding scale?
I believe therapy should be accessible to everyone. For this reason, I reserve a limited number of reduced-fee weekly appointments (based on financial hardship). Please contact me to discuss further.
How can I pay you?
I accept cash, PayPal, or credit/debit cards. Payments are due at the beginning of the session. All clients must keep a card on file that will be run for violating my cancellation policy.
What is your cancellation policy?

I have a strict 48-hour cancellation policy.

I reserve a space on my calendar, especially for you. If you cannot keep the appointment, please let me know at least 48 hours in advance.

Is online therapy as effective as in-person therapy?

Absolutely.

Modern telehealth options provide a confidential, easy-to-use way to get the same quality therapy online. In fact, many clients prefer online therapy because of its convenience, finding it easier to engage in therapy in the comfort of their homes or offices.

In the end, it is your personal preference! You can try both and decide what works best for you, as we do not have any restrictions imposed on us by insurance companies.

How long are your sessions?
Sessions are 50-60 minutes long.
What are therapy sessions like?
Sessions are 50-60 minutes long. I will ask you to choose a specific issue to focus on session to avoid going off tangents. Therapy with me is process-oriented, meaning we will bring unconscious material to the present to create awareness. We will pay attention to your body sensations, emotions, and beliefs as you share your story with me. And we’ll always go at your own pace.
How often will I see you?

I typically see clients once per week. Weekly meetings allow for the process to move at a good pace.

How long do I need to be in therapy?

The short answer: it depends.

The long answer: it depends on your goals, life experiences, and whether or not you have been in therapy before.

Many present issues stem from past wounds that have not been resolved. My clients benefit from exploring and healing these wounds. Doing so improves their relationship with themselves and others because there is more understanding and less reactivity.

This work does not happen overnight, and it takes time to process. That being said, some clients work with me for a few months, which is enough to help them resolve their issues. Other clients work with me long-term. It can be a few years, depending on the person.

You will always get to decide when the right time is to end therapy.

How will I know if you’re the right therapist for me?

This is a particularly important question. You are dedicating time and resources to this endeavor, so you want to ensure you pick the right person.

You should consider logistical factors (office location, availability, etc.) and personal factors (my training, expertise, personality, and if you feel comfortable with me).

I suggest you consider the questions that will inform your decision, and we can address them during your free consultation phone call.

Sometimes, you have to be in a room with someone to have a feel for them. The first couple of face-to-face sessions will further inform your decision, and we can discuss any ongoing reservations or concerns you may have.

Do I have to lie on a couch?

Absolutely not! Many shows and movies might give you the wrong idea of how therapists act or how being in therapy works. Rest assured that I am not an “old version therapist” where I am the expert, and you just listen to me.

In my therapy office, YOU are the expert, and I am helping you trust that you have the answer for your difficulties.

Cats or Dogs?
I love both. I am an animal lover! Unfortunately, I do not have the time to dedicate to a dog as they deserve more attention. That is why I adopted three kitties. They give me all the emotional support I need while they can be on their own when I am not home.