FAQs
What type of clients do you service?
Throughout my journey, I have had the opportunity to work with a variety of clients. This has allowed me to gain experience working with a diverse population, learn about the unique struggles people work through, and identify my strengths and passion as a therapist.
Through personal and professional experience, I have found that my speciality is in working with young male issues (teenagers and adults). This includes academic and professional struggles, addiction (not just drugs and alcohol, but video games and smartphone as well), life transitions, and general emotional issues.
In addition to which, as a former athlete, I enjoy working with athletes of all sports, treating and educating clients about how to manage common mental blocks in performance, such as managing anxiety, setting achievable goals, improving confidence, and gaining an overall mental edge in your game.
Finally, as someone who’s a parent of a child with special needs and a board certified behavior analyst, I have had the pleasure of working with families cope with the challenges that they experience caring for their unique child or adult. This type of treatment includes working directly with the client as well as providing parent consultation, educating parents on how to manage their behaviors and provide tips on managing challenging behaviors and emotions.
What are your fees?
This is a conversation I have with prospective clients during our free initial phone consultation, as different treatment types and length determine fees. My fees range is $160-$225 per session. Fees are determined based on treatment needs as no two cases are the same. I do take into consideration the client’s financial situation, and do offer a sliding scale for limited clients. Payment plans can also be established. I accept cash, check, credit cards, Venmo, Square, Zelle, and PayPal. I also accept most HSA and FSA plans.
How long are sessions?
The initial session is an intake, which takes about 60-75 minutes. This session is important as it gathers all of the background information about the client(s), presenting concerns, and past experiences. This session allows for the client and I to create reasonable therapy goals, establish a working relationship, and create a foundation for intervention. Ensuing therapy sessions are 50 minutes in length.
During the onset of treatment, I normally recommend that clients commit to one session per week. However, depending on individual or situational needs, I may see a client two or more times per week.
Do you provide online, remote, or video services?
Absolutely! I am professionally trained to conduct web-based video therapy. My license covers all of California, so I can see clients anywhere in the state; whether it be San Francisco, San Diego, or Los Angeles. With the ongoing COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic, many clients have elected to conduct sessions through video for the purposes of safety and convenience. At the same time, my office remains open, which is clean, sanitized, and use of masks is encouraged.
I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?
Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the courage to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. In our work together, I’ll help you explore and identify your strengths and how to implement them to reduce the influence of the problems you are facing.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
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, counseling 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, and 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.
Why shouldn’t I just take medication?
Medication can be effective but it alone cannot solve all issues. Sometimes medication is needed in conjunction with counseling. Our work together is designed to explore and unpack the problems you are experiencing and expand on your strengths that can help you accomplish your personal goals.
How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?
Because each person has different issues and goals for counseling, it will be different depending on the individual. I tailor my therapeutic approach to your specific needs.
How long will it take?
Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time counseling 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 counseling in the first place.
I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?
I am so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication will be crucial to your success.