Frequently Asked Questions
Getting Started
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A Licensed Clinical Social Worker has received training on providing mental health care with a focus on the social context of individual mental health. In order to receive a license, they must complete three years of supervised psychotherapy, and continue postgraduate training. Click here for more information on the differences among clinical social workers, psychologists, and psychiatrists.
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The first step is reaching out to schedule a free 20-minute consultation. This is a chance to talk briefly about what you’re looking for, ask questions, and see if working together feels like a good fit. There’s no pressure or obligation to continue.
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The consultation is a short, informal conversation. We’ll talk about what’s bringing you to therapy, what you’ve tried before (if anything), and what you’re hoping for. It’s primarily about fit — not assessment or treatment.
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No. You don’t need to choose a modality before starting. We’ll talk through what you’re experiencing and decide together what approach makes the most sense for you.
Therapy Format & Availability
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Both. I offer online therapy as well as in-person sessions, depending on availability and location. We can discuss what feels most supportive for you during the consultation.
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I provide in-person EMDR therapy at my office in Mission Valley, San Diego. The space is designed to feel calm and supportive, with attention to privacy and nervous system safety.
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Because there is no standardized national licensing system in the United States, you can only work with a therapist who is licensed in the state where you live. I am licensed in the following states:
California License 80293
Massachusetts License 124113
Michigan License 6801112277
New York License 079346
Florida License 14603
If you live outside these states, I'm not able to work with you directly. I've put together a resources and referrals page to help you find a therapist where you live. It includes options for sliding-scale care and for finding a therapist of color.
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Most clients begin with weekly sessions. Frequency can change over time depending on your needs, goals, and what feels sustainable.
Fees & Practical Details
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I do not accept insurance directly. I am not on insurance panels, but your insurance company may cover therapy on an out-of-network basis.
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My standard fee is $250 per session. I offer a limited number of reduced-fee slots for clients, and we can absolutely discuss this during consultation.
If cost is a concern, my here is a page that lists reduced-fee options and guidance on using out-of-network benefits.
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Yes. Therapy is confidential, with limited legal exceptions related to safety. I’ll explain confidentiality clearly and answer any questions you have before we begin working together.
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Good Faith Estimate Notice
For more information on the estimated cost of my services and budgeting, please review this Good Faith Estimate Notice.
About Fit & Readiness
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Many people I work with have tried therapy in the past and felt misunderstood, rushed, or stuck at the level of insight. Therapy can feel very different when the approach, pacing, and relationship are a better fit.
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Feeling unsure is very common — especially if you’ve experienced trauma. You don’t need to feel confident or fully prepared to reach out. Curiosity and a willingness to explore are enough.
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The consultation is the best way to find out. A good therapeutic fit often feels calm, clear, and respectful — not pressured. If it doesn’t feel right, that’s okay, and I’m happy to help you think about other options.
If it doesn't feel right, that's okay, and I'm happy to help you think about other options. My referrals page is also a good starting point for finding the right fit elsewhere.
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Yes. Your background shapes how you experience distress and what healing looks like for you, and good therapy works with that rather than around it. I treat the effects of injustice, discrimination, and historical harm as real causes of real distress, and I adapt the methods I'm trained in to fit you. You can read more about how I approach this here: Culturally Responsive and Historically Aware Care.
If you’re in crisis…
I’m not able to provide crisis support. If you’re in immediate danger, please contact local emergency services or a crisis hotline such as 988 (U.S.). For more information on anti-carceral crisis support,
including for transgender folx, click here.
Next Steps
If you have a question that isn’t answered here, feel free to reach out. We can start with a brief conversation and go from there.