Questions people ask

Getting started

How much does a session cost?

My rate is $215 for a 50 minute session, and $250 for couples. I reserve a limited number of sliding scale slots. Please ask if finances are a concern. (Fees)

Do you take insurance?

I am out of network. I can provide a superbill so you can seek reimbursement, and you can check your out-of-network benefits with Thrizer from the Fees page.

Where is your office?

423 Gough Street in Hayes Valley, San Francisco. I also see clients by video anywhere in California.

I have never done therapy. What happens in the first session?

We talk. I will ask what brought you in, what your life looks like now, and what you want to be different. There is nothing you need to have figured out in advance.

How do I start?

Book a free 30 minute phone or video consultation. We will talk about what brings you in and whether I am the right fit. (Contact)

Online therapy

Do I have to live in San Francisco?

No, you can be anywhere in California.

Can I switch between video and in person?

Yes. Many clients do both. (Online therapy)

What happens if the connection drops?

Call or text me at 415-754-9172 and we will sort it out.

Religion and community

Do I need to have left my religion to work with you?

Absolutely not. Many of my clients are still inside their faith community and want help sorting out what is theirs and what was imposed. Others have left. Both are welcome.

Are you going to try to talk me out of faith, or back into it?

Neither. I have a clinical training and a personal history that let me sit with either direction without steering you. (Religion & Community)

LGBTQ+

What does "affirming therapist" actually mean?

Your identity is not a problem to solve. We start from that premise and get to what brought you in.

I am not out to everyone. Is that a problem?

No. Where you are in coming out is yours to decide. Many clients are out in some parts of life and not others, and we work with that. (LGBTQ+ Therapy)

Couples

My partner is hesitant. Can I come alone first?

Yes. Individual sessions can be a place to sort out what you want and how to invite your partner in. If we later move to couples work, we will talk about how that transition works.

Do you work with open or non-monogamous relationships?

Yes. I work with the relationship as you have designed it. (Couples)