Getting Started

Therapy varies a great deal depending on the nature of the issues for which you seek help, and the orientation and style of the therapist. It is important that you find a therapist that suits your needs and your personality.  

If you'd like to see if we are a good fit, call me at (650) 468-6646 for a free phone consultation.

Initial Meeting / Treatment Plan

I normally conduct an initial evaluation that will last approximately 2 sessions. At the end of the evaluation we will discuss my treatment recommendations and how I expect to help you meet your treatment goals. During these initial sessions, we can both decide if I am the best person to provide the services you need. If not, I will refer you to a more appropriate therapist.

Once therapy begins, we will usually schedule one 50-minute session per week at a time we agree on.  If you are interested in expediting your progress we can meet more frequently, or for longer sessions. Many clients prefer to meet for 90 minutes per session in order to make more rapid change.  We can discuss the frequency and length of session that will work best for you and your schedule.  Throughout therapy we will continue to assess and revise your treatment goals and the focus of our work together, so that you continue to make progress on the issues that are most important to you.

Fees/Insurance

My fee for psychotherapy is $400 per 50-minute session during regular business hours (9am-5pm).  Longer sessions are prorated based on this rate (e.g., a 90-minute evaluation or therapy session = $600).  Payment is due at the time of the therapy session. You may pay by check, cash, or credit card.

If you have a health insurance policy, it will usually provide some coverage for mental health treatment.  I will be considered an “out-of-network” provider, which means that your insurance company may reimburse you directly for some portion of the fees you have paid to me.  I will provide you with a monthly statement and whatever assistance I can in helping you receive the benefits to which you are entitled; however, you (not your insurance company) are responsible for full payment of fees.  If you intend to use your insurance, I recommend that you contact your plan prior to our first session to ask about your "out-of-network" psychotherapy benefits.


Forms


In order to complete a comprehensive evaluation in a relatively short amount of time, it is helpful for you to complete some paperwork prior to your first visit.

Forms to download, complete, and bring to your first appointment:

Additional forms you may need:
1) Authorization for release of information (to allow me to consult with your other providers)
2) Private contract for Medicare patients

Forms to review and keep for your own records:
1) HIPAA notice of privacy practices (informational only)