FAQ

Where are you located?
My office is conveniently located near Downtown Encinitas and Moonlight Beach.

The address is:
621 2nd Street, Suite A
Encinitas, CA 92024

What can I expect at my first session?
The first session can be between 60-90 minutes. Regular sessions are 50 minutes thereafter.

The first session will give you an opportunity to ask me any questions you may have. Then, I will ask you some questions to get to know you better.

During our first meeting, you will be asked to describe your concerns and what you hope to gain from therapy. It will be completely normal for you to be nervous at our first session. Most clients tell me they find the hour goes by very quickly. After a few sessions most clients feel more comfortable.

Can I benefit from counseling?
Therapy is not a one-size-fits-all proposition. That is why I offer a free telephone consultation to determine whether your needs and the services I offer are a good fit for each other by discussing any difficulties prior to you booking an appointment.

If you are motivated and invested in your counseling, you will definitely benefit. Some reasons clients come to counseling can include needing help through a major life transition, feeling out of sorts, struggling in relationships, low self-worth, or help managing symptoms.

Counseling can also be beneficial if you need an objective voice to assist in furthering your personal growth.

Why shouldn’t I just take medication?
Medication can be effective and is sometimes needed in conjunction with counseling. But medication alone is not sufficient without the proper coping mechanisms in place.

What medication does is treat the symptoms. Our work together in counseling is designed to explore the root of the issue, dig deep into your behavior and learn strategies that can help you accomplish your personal and/or relational goals.

How long will I have to be in counseling?
The number of sessions generally depends on the issues that are to be addressed, the severity of the issues, and existing coping mechanisms of the individual.

We will set goals in counseling and we will work together to achieve those goals at a pace with which you feel comfortable.

I will give you my feedback on where I think you are in the process. My hope for you is to be able to use all the skills you have learned in counseling and feel confident to live life on your terms.

How often should I be coming to counseling?
Initially I usually recommend that you come in every week. It assists in developing rapport and supports the counseling flow.

Usually we can then drop to every 2 weeks, then once a month for maintenance as long as you have accountability toward your goals. Together we will develop a plan that makes sense for you.

Do you offer video or phone sessions?
I offer either video or phone sessions to residents in California.
How do I pay?
Payment is expected at the time of service. I accept cash, check and major credit cards.
What is your cancellation policy?
I request a 48-hour notice of cancellation; if cancellation notice is less than 24 hours, I charge the session fee.
Am I abnormal because I need counseling?
It is normal to need support at different times in our lives. Everyone needs guidance to navigate life events, transitions, or emotions that can feel too big to handle on your own.

Counseling is here to help support you to create your best life and support you through those tough times.

Can I use my insurance to pay for sessions?
I am an out-of-network provider and am happy to provide a superbill each month for you to collect possible reimbursement benefits.

Please contact your provider to verify how your plan compensates you for psychotherapy services.

Any other questions?
Please contact me at (619) 246-9129 to schedule your free 20-minute phone consultation. I look forward to hearing from you!