FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
This section provides answers to commonly asked questions related to my therapy practice.
What is your fee (per session)?
Current Fees:
Consultation: This is a one-time meeting to explore the possibility of working together. Includes discussion of the client’s history, issues and concerns, as well as my training, philosophy and methods. Cost: $185.00
Individual, couples or family session:
16-37 minutes: $85.00.
38-52 minutes (This is my standard session and is usually 50 minutes): Cost: $185.00
53 minutes and over: $210.00
Phone Consultation, for current client, between sessions, 21-30 minutes: $50.00
Group Psychotherapy: 90 minutes. Contingent upon the applicable group having current openings; and completing a screening session to determine whether it could be a good fit. Cost: $30.00
It is my policy and strong preference to not be involved in clients’ legal matters. If I am compelled to become involved in a client’s legal proceedings (deposition, Court appearance, or other legal matters), my hourly fee is $475.00, in part to cover the cost of my own legal consultation.
Note: My fees are subject to periodic increa
Do you take insurance?
I do not take insurance and am not on any insurance panels. I am not a MediCare provider. I do provide super bills for clients who have a PPO (preferred provider insurance) or out of network benefits.
Do you offer sliding scale?
My standard session fee is $185.00 per session and is subject to periodic increase.
No, I do not offer a “sliding scale”. I do sometimes offer a reduced fee for people who are not able to afford my full fee. The availability of this arrangement depends upon several factors, including how many of my other clients are currently using it, and my clinical judgement.
Do you offer telehealth/in person sessions?
Yes, I offer both telehealth and in person sessions.
Do you offer EMDR?
Yes, I have the basic EMDR training. Most of my clients find that they prefer Somatic Experiencing, because it tends to be more gentle and gradual, with greater active involvement on the part of the client. Some clients request a combination of both modalities. I have found that Somatic Experiencing can be particularly helpful in stabilizing the person’s nervous system before engaging in EMDR reprocessing.
Do you offer outdoor Ecotherapy?
Yes, I am trained in providing outdoor urban ecotherapy sessions, and I often do so in the various parks and nature areas around Long Beach.
What is the “No Surprises Act” and why are you giving me a “Good Faith Estimate”?
The “No Surprises Act,” went into effect in January 2022. As of the time I’m writing this, the law is still pretty new, and there seems to be much confusion about how it will apply to private practice psychotherapy.
I will provide you with a Good Faith Estimate (GFEs) of the expected financial cost of treatment, in accordance with the current legal requirements as I understand them. GFEs are estimates, not contracts. They do not require you (or me) to proceed with treatment, and the actual total expenditure may vary.
The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) offers a dispute resolution process for therapy clients who believe they have been charged excessively. For more information or to begin a dispute process, go to their No Surprises web page or call 1-800-985-3059. Here is the HHS website page specifically for health care consumers.
