Certainly! I am happy to welcome new clients. I also understand that life is ever-changing, so I make it a point to provide a range of convenient options on weekdays that might suit your needs. While I don’t currently schedule appointments on weekends, I want to ensure that you receive the support you require, exactly when you need it. That’s why my dedicated associates are available for weekend sessions. At the moment, I am only accepting individual clients, but my associates are willing to see couples and families.

I choose not to take insurance in my practice to ensure that our collaboration on your journey to wellness is a personal and uninhibited one. This decision allows me to focus solely on what’s genuinely best for you without external influences from insurance providers. With your needs in mind, my goal is to provide you with comprehensive and personalized care. If you have a PPO insurance plan, I can provide you with a monthly superbill for potential reimbursement. I also accept Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) to help cover therapy costs. If you have any concerns or questions about these options, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’ll work together to navigate them with thoughtfulness and care.

The rate for a 60-minute session is $300, while 90-minute sessions are available at $450. In certain cases, intensive therapy sessions lasting 3-4 hours per day can be arranged for individuals and couples seeking deeper work within a condensed time frame. I firmly believe therapy is a valuable investment in your overall well-being, with immeasurable benefits as you strive to achieve personal goals and discover the healing you deserve.

By choosing to be a private pay client and opting out of using insurance for your care, you have the advantage of not having to share your personal health information with a third party. This gives you certain benefits, including:

• Unlimited visits, so you can access the care you need without limitations.
• No requirement for a mental health diagnosis, allowing you to focus on your well-being without labels.
• The freedom to set your priorities and determine the course of your treatment, putting you in control.
• Enhanced confidentiality of your health and medical records, ensuring your privacy is protected.
• The ability to select the professional who is best suited to meet your specific needs, instead of being limited to a pre-approved list of providers.

Choosing this approach puts you in charge of your healthcare journey and empowers you to prioritize your well-being. This allows me to provide you with the best possible care, free from the limitations and restrictions of insurance companies. Your healing and growth are my top priorities, and I am dedicated to working alongside you on your unique path towards wellness. Let’s take this journey together with compassion, empathy, and nurturing support every step of the way. So, if you have any further questions or concerns about insurance or payment options, please don’t hesitate to contact me. I am here for you and ready to help in any way I can.

Your reserved appointment time is a space held exclusively for you, reflecting both my dedication to your journey and the value of the time we have set aside for your care. I completely understand that life can sometimes be unpredictable, leading to necessary changes in your schedule. If you find you need to cancel or reschedule our session, I kindly ask for 48 hours notice; this consideration allows me to offer the time to someone else who may be in need of support.

If an appointment is missed, or a late cancellation is made within 48 hours of your scheduled time, it is necessary to charge for the session at the standard rate. This policy is in place because that time was held exclusively for you. And without adequate notice, it is often not possible to fill the vacancy. Please note that insurance companies do not cover charges for missed appointments or late cancellations. I encourage you to arrive on time for your sessions as well. If you arrive late, we will still need to end at the scheduled time to extend the same consideration to all clients.

Should these situations arise, my intention is not to cause stress but to uphold mutual respect for the time we’ve committed to your path of healing. Remember, this journey is a collaboration, and communication is an essential part of the compassionate care I am committed to providing. If you encounter any difficulties with this policy or any other aspect of our work together, please reach out. Your well-being is always my priority, and I am here to navigate any obstacle with understanding and empathy. Let’s continue to work together towards your healing and growth, one step at a time. So, please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns. I am here for you.

Therapy sessions are either 60 or 90 minutes long, usually on a weekly basis. Your individual needs, however, guide the frequency of our meetings. Starting weekly helps build a consistent, and supportive therapeutic relationship. As we collaborate, we can adjust the frequency of sessions based on your progress and goals. I understand that life can be unpredictable, so I am flexible and willing to work with your schedule. As we establish our therapeutic relationship, we can discuss the best schedule that resonates with you.

As you begin reaching the goals you’ve set for yourself, we can move towards meeting less frequently. Or we can stop therapy altogether, knowing that you have developed valuable tools to navigate your journey. This is always the goal of successful therapy – to empower you with the skills and resilience to thrive on your own. My role is to get you in, support you in processing your struggles, and then get you moving on! I will be very open with you and will check in about the frequency of sessions regularly, feedback, goals, and treatment plan realignments. All to ensure YOU feel that our work together is helping you achieve your therapeutic goals.

The first session is an opportunity for us to connect and determine if we’re a good match. Individual therapy can be anxiety-provoking. Especially if it’s your first time seeking therapy or if you’ve had negative experiences in the past. You’re meeting a stranger and sharing intimate details of your life with them. However, after a few sessions, you may feel entirely different about working together. Understandably, it may take a few sessions to establish rapport and begin feeling comfortable. That’s why I encourage you to give our therapeutic relationship some time before deciding if we’re a good fit.

Together, we’ll explore your motivations for seeking therapy, evaluate your current circumstances, and collaboratively design an initial treatment plan. This session will also create a safe space for you to voice any inquiries or apprehensions you may have. We will start by addressing any concerns you might have regarding confidentiality, ensuring that you feel secure to openly share. I strive to foster an atmosphere where you feel heard, respected, and valued. I intend to build a trusting therapeutic relationship with you. You are the expert on your life, experiences, and emotions. 

I am here to help you navigate through them by offering guidance, support, and tools for personal growth.

Through our compassionate dialogue, you’ll get the chance to openly share the challenges you’re currently facing. I’ll ask insightful questions to gain a deep understanding of your unique background, innate strengths, and areas where you envision personal growth. Together, we’ll collaborate on creating a tailored path forward, incorporating therapeutic tools and strategies that align with your journey. In every aspect of our session, we will work collaboratively. Before we part ways, we will set a conscious intention for what you’d like to carry forward and apply in your life before our next meeting. I believe open communication and a strong therapeutic connection are essential for success in therapy, and I am committed to providing you with both.

Almost! There are rare instances in which I may need to break confidentiality in therapy. This includes situations where there is a serious danger to yourself or someone else if you report suspected abuse or neglect of children, elders (aged 60+), or vulnerable adults, or in certain legal circumstances. Here is a complete list of situations where I would need to break confidentiality in therapy. Rest assured, I take confidentiality seriously and will discuss it in more detail during our first session. Feel free to ask any questions or share any concerns. Your trust and comfort are important to me, and I want you to feel safe and secure in our therapeutic relationship.

In therapy, you will gain a space to share your thoughts and feelings, and in the safety of a non-judgmental space. Together, we will work to explore the root causes of your struggles and develop strategies to overcome them. I will ask you questions to support you in introspection and self-discovery, while also providing guidance and support along the way. At times, you might come to therapy knowing what you want to talk about, and at others, you might discover new topics organically. Or, you may not know what you want to say at all. That’s okay too! We will work together at whatever pace feels comfortable for you, always with the intention of helping you grow and heal.

The timeline for therapy varies for each individual. Some people may see progress after a few sessions, while others may need longer. It all depends on the intensity of your symptoms, your personal goals, and your level of commitment to the therapy process. What’s important to remember is that therapy is not a destination- it is a journey.

One that is not linear and may have ups and downs. Therapy focused on addressing a specific ongoing issue may take a shorter amount of time, 12-18 months sessions. Whereas therapy focused on personal growth, self-discovery, and healing from past traumas may take longer. Your healing journey is unique and it’s important to honor your own pace.

Yes, I’m pleased to offer the option of online therapy for those who may find it more convenient or comfortable than attending sessions in person at my Hermosa Beach office. If you are located in California, Colorado, Florida, Kansas and South Carolina —states where I am fully licensed—I can bring the therapeutic experience to you via a secure, HIPAA-compliant video conferencing platform.

Online therapy is a great option when you’re unable to attend in-person sessions due to physical limitations, time constraints, or personal preferences. Despite not being in the same room, online therapy offers similar benefits and can be just as effective as traditional in-person therapy. Before our session, I’ll send you a link and instructions for connecting with me. Just use your email address, and at the scheduled appointment time, I’ll start a video call so we can have a session that feels just as personal as an in-person meeting.

Yet, it’s important to approach this option with understanding and awareness of its limitations. There are instances when online therapy may not be suitable, particularly if you are:

• Experiencing suicidal thoughts or severe depression.
• Frequently in a mental health crisis.
• Residing or traveling outside of the states where I am licensed.
• Seeking support for complex trauma or similar intensive mental health issues.

In such cases, online therapy may not provide the level of care needed, and I would encourage anyone facing these challenges to seek in-person support.

Absolutely! Rest assured that the quality of therapy remains unaffected, whether it’s in a traditional office or online. I apply the same therapeutic techniques and strategies, and research proves that online therapy is as effective as in-person therapy. Some clients may find online therapy more convenient and accessible. It allows them to receive support from the comfort of their own home or wherever they have internet access and is safe and private.

Those letters indicate different credentials and specializations that a therapist has acquired through education, training, and certification. For example, “LMFT” stands for Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, while “LCSW” stands for Licensed Clinical Social Worker. These letters can help you identify the type of therapy the therapist is trained in and their areas of expertise.

• Psychiatrists are medical doctors, who possess the expertise to prescribe psychiatric medication.
• Psychologists are highly trained clinicians with a doctorate degree who are equipped to offer psychological testing and engage in talk therapy.
• Clinical social workers are clinicians with a strong educational foundation in social justice.
• Counselor is a broad term that covers licensed clinicians, such as Licensed Mental Health Counselors or Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors, as well as individuals who offer other forms of counsel, such as spiritual counselors.
• Therapist is a broad term that covers different types of healing professionals, like physical therapists or massage therapists.
• Psychotherapists are individuals who specialize in talk therapy and are often recognized as Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Their role is to support individuals dealing with mental health challenges and relationship difficulties.
• Life coaches can offer support in different aspects of life, but it’s important to remember that they aren’t licensed by any state board.

I am a psychotherapist with an LMFT license, specializing in individual and couples therapy.

One of the key things to keep in mind when it comes to therapy is finding a therapist who is the right fit for you. It’s important to feel comfortable and safe with your therapist, as well as confident in their ability to address your specific needs. Research also suggests that therapy is most effective when there is a strong connection between you and your therapist, built on trust, respect, and collaboration.

One other important aspect is actively participating in therapy. For therapy to really work, your motivation and commitment are key. To get the most out of your sessions, it’s important to be open and honest about your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Remember, therapy is a collaborative process, and your therapist can provide valuable support and guidance. But it’s ultimately up to you to take action and make positive changes in your daily life and relationships. Think of therapy as a workout for your mind, where the more effort you put in, the more you’ll get out of it. Therapy is a journey that involves making small changes daily. Remember, it’s about the marathon, not the sprint.

Additionally, I will be closely monitoring your progress. Throughout our sessions, I’ll regularly check in with you to see if you’re feeling heard and understood, and if the strategies we’re using are effective for you. I will collect data from you in the form of questionnaires, surveys, or other assessments to track your progress and make necessary adjustments. If at any time you feel that therapy isn’t meeting your needs, I encourage you to share your concerns with me. Sometimes the therapist-client fit may not be quite right, and that’s okay. In this case, I am more than happy to provide you with a referral to another therapist who may be better suited for your needs. My ultimate goal is for you to find the support and resources that will help you thrive on your journey towards improved mental health and well-being.

Definitely not. It’s often a misconception that therapy is only for people who are in crisis or experiencing severe mental health concerns. Being proactive about your mental health can be beneficial. It gives you the opportunity to understand the root causes of any underlying issues and address them before they become more serious. Therapy can help you build a secure, resilient foundation for your mental well-being, regardless of where you are on your journey.

Holistic psychotherapy is a form of therapy that focuses on the whole person – mind, body, and spirit. It can benefit anyone looking to improve their overall well-being. This could include individuals seeking personal growth, stress management, relationship improvement, or simply wanting to better understand themselves. Every journey toward healing and growth is unique. Acknowledging you are ready to listen to your mind and body to seek alignment and balance within yourself, is an important first step.

Holistic psychotherapy is an incredible therapy technique that considers the person’s mind, body, and spirit. It concentrates on the individual as a whole, rather than solely focusing on their symptoms or specific mental health concerns. This approach acknowledges the interconnectedness of all aspects of a person and aims to address any imbalances or underlying issues that may contribute to their struggles. By working in harmony with the mind, body, and spirit, holistic psychotherapy strives to enhance overall well-being and promote healing.

Holistic therapy is a great option for anyone looking to heal and grow not just on a surface level, but also on a deeper, more comprehensive level. It takes into account all aspects of your life – physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual – to create lasting and meaningful change. If you are open to exploring different approaches to therapy and want to tap into your inner resilience and strength, then holistic therapy may be the right fit for you. Here are some questions to ask yourself:

• Am I looking for a more comprehensive approach to therapy than just traditional talk therapy?
• Do I believe that my physical and emotional well-being are connected?
• Am I open to incorporating practices like mindfulness, meditation, and nutrition into my healing journey?
• Do you prefer a more natural and holistic approach to healing rather than relying solely on medication?
• Am I ready to take an active role in my therapy process and commit to self-exploration and growth?
• Are you wanting to address the root cause of your struggles rather than just managing symptoms?
• Do I want to explore my beliefs, values, and spirituality in therapy?
• Am I open to incorporating mind-body techniques like yoga or breathwork into my therapy sessions?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, then holistic therapy may be a great fit for you. We will work together to create a personalized treatment plan that incorporates all aspects of your well-being and supports your journey toward healing. Remember, therapy is a collaborative process and we will always work at a pace that feels comfortable for you.

Absolutely, the choice is yours. Traditional talk therapy has been a cornerstone of psychotherapy for decades and remains a powerful modality for self-discovery and healing all on its own. It’s valid if you’d rather focus on talk therapy during our sessions. This journey is about your comfort and making sure the path you pick feels right for you. Holistic methods, while helpful for many, aren’t a must but rather an option for those curious and open to trying them in therapy. Whatever approach you choose, my priority is to create a safe and understanding environment that meets your needs. Whether it’s traditional talk therapy or holistic psychotherapy, I am here to support you and guide you toward growth, resilience, and hope.

You can absolutely benefit from holistic therapy even if you are not a spiritual person. While spirituality is often incorporated into holistic therapy, it’s not a requirement. The main focus of holistic therapy is to address you as a whole person and not just your symptoms. This means incorporating techniques that support your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Whether you are religious or not, holistic therapy can help you tap into your inner resources and strengths to promote healing and personal growth.

I will work with you to create a treatment plan that aligns with your beliefs and values while still providing the comprehensive care that holistic therapy offers. The beauty of this approach to therapy is that it can be tailored to fit your individual needs and preferences. So, if this resonates with you, I encourage you to give holistic therapy a try.

Yes, you can absolutely combine holistic therapy with prescribed medications! Holistic therapy is a well-rounded approach that takes into consideration all aspects of your well-being, including any medications you may be taking. It is not meant to replace any prescribed medications, but rather complement them by addressing your well-being as a whole. If you are currently taking medication, we will work together to ensure that your treatment plan is safe and in alignment with your overall goals. My focus is always on promoting holistic healing and wellness. I am also open to collaborating with other healthcare professionals in order to best support you on your journey towards well-being.

Nutrition can play an important role in our overall well-being. This is why we may have conversations around the significance of mind-gut connection and how certain foods can impact our mood and mental health. While holistic therapy does not include specific nutritional recommendations, we may discuss how making mindful food choices can support your healing journey. However, please note that I am not a licensed nutritionist or dietitian and cannot provide specific meal plans or dietary advice.

If you have any concerns about your nutritional needs, I will support you in finding the right professional to join your wellness team. As part of our work together, I can offer referrals to trusted nutritionists, dietitians, and other specialists. My expertise lies in therapeutic practices, and while I deeply understand the importance of nutrition in mental and emotional health, specific dietary advice is beyond my scope. However, every discussion around nutrition in our sessions will be shame-free and body-positive. My goal is to help you feel empowered and informed about how nutrition can support your overall well-being.

Yes, I will gladly collaborate with other holistic health practitioners to support your well-being! Holistic therapy is all about addressing your well-being as a whole, and that often includes incorporating different modalities and practices. I am open to collaborating with other practitioners that you are working with, such as psychiatrists, a nutritionist, a physical therapist, or any other holistic health provider.

At the beginning of our sessions, you will work collaboratively with me to build your treatment goals and intentions. For example, we may explore how your past traumas are impacting your mind, coupled with how the body is holding onto that experience. Or, we might look at how your thoughts and beliefs about yourself can manifest into physical symptoms in the body. Based on your specific goals and needs, we will explore what other holistic providers can be part of your team, such as a nutritionist or acupuncturist, to support you in reaching optimal health. These holistic practices work together to provide a comprehensive approach to healing, making it an effective and empowering therapy experience. I will have you sign a release form that allows me to communicate with other practitioners and work together to create the best treatment plan for you.

By collaborating, we can ensure that all aspects of your well-being are being addressed and cover any potential gaps in your care. All so we can improve your overall well-being, together. Because the main focus of holistic psychotherapy is to help you achieve balance and alignment within yourself, leading to increased mental, emotional, and physical well-being.

Yes! It is completely normal to experience a mix of emotions when considering therapy. It’s common for individuals to question whether therapy is necessary or to feel uncertain about what therapy may uncover. Some might even worry about the stigma attached to seeking mental health support or doubt their own needs compared to others. Look inward and ask yourself: Is fear holding me back from seeking help? Am I discounting my own struggles and needs? Am I ready to take the first step towards healing and growth?

Listen to what your mind and body are trying to tell you, and trust your intuition. If you’re feeling hesitant after answering “yes” to wanting therapy, it’s important to acknowledge and explore those feelings. You can discuss any concerns or fears with your therapist, and together, create a plan that feels comfortable for you. And if you’re still unsure, that’s totally okay! You can always come back to the idea of therapy when you feel more ready. Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to seek help and prioritize your mental health. It’s all about finding what works best for you on your unique journey towards wellness. So, trust yourself, and know that holistic therapy will be here to support you whenever you’re ready.

The first step is often the most difficult, but also the most important. To begin therapy with me, simply reach out and schedule an initial session. You can do this by either calling or emailing me, whichever feels more comfortable for you. During our initial conversation, I will kindly request your email address so you can complete the essential intake paperwork before our initial session. This digital packet includes basic information about you—like your home address, demographic details, and personal history.

This preemptive step is here to ensure that your session time is fully devoted to you and your story, without any logistical distractions. It also allows me to get to know some of your background beforehand. Don’t worry, these forms are safely hosted on a secure server, keeping your personal information strictly confidential. Once you schedule your first session, I’ll send you an invitation with a link to our meeting shortly after. If you have any questions or want to make sure I’m the right fit for you, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Your peace of mind is important, and together, we’ll embark on this healing journey—one step, one breath, one moment at a time.

To make that courageous first step, please schedule an appointment here.