FAQ

Yes, I have several openings.

I offer sessions online, so I am available to see anyone in California. I have a business mailing address in Oakland, CA, and work from my home in the Bay Area.

No, you can use a tablet or a smartphone. I use a platform called Simple Practice. If you are using a computer or tablet, you do not need to download anything. You will be emailed and/or texted a link to the session in advance. If you are using a smartphone, you must download an app called Telehealth by Simple Practice. I have a how-to sheet to provide to you.

I generally do not provide therapy on the phone. Occasionally, exceptions may arise for technical issues.

Currently, I work Tuesdays 9 – 5 and Wednesdays 1 – 5.

My schedule is subject to change. I teach classes at San Francisco State University, and my day may change from semester to semester. I will give at least one month’s notice of any changes, likely several months. If this affects you, I will do everything I can to accommodate you and make a change that will work for you.

I typically see clients for 50 minutes. Occasionally, I may see someone for 30 minutes, depending on the client’s needs.

Complete the contact form at the bottom of this page. I will call you, and we will plan from there.

My fees are $225 for a 50-minute session and $175 for a 30-minute session.

I have a few spots for sliding-scale clients. Please talk to me about your needs.

I accept Zelle (bank-to-bank transfer) or Venmo (if from a private account).

I do not accept insurance, but I will provide you with a Superbill to submit to your commercial insurance if you know they allow members to see out-of-network providers. I am unable to submit billing documents directly to insurance companies.

Please complete the contact form at the bottom of this page, and I will call you to discuss details.

You are free to cancel an appointment with a 24-hour notice. My policy states that you will be billed my full rate if you cancel in less than 24 hours or do not attend our session.

I rarely cancel sessions; if an emergency or unavoidable situation arises, I will notify you as soon as possible and work with you to reschedule. The 24-hour cancellation policy helps maintain the consistency of your care and ensures that my practice runs smoothly. If I need to cancel, you won’t be charged (of course!) for the missed session, and I will do my best to find another time to meet within the same week.

I work approximately 42 weeks a year when you consider vacation and continuing education classes, and you will be given a list of my known time off when we start working together. I will give you at least a month’s notice for planned time off that I know of that far in advance.

Finding the right therapist is so essential! I offer a free 20-minute consultation to help you decide.

This initial meeting allows us to determine if we are a good fit before beginning our sessions. It’s an opportunity for you to assess my approach and for me to ensure I can provide the support you need. 

It lasts approximately 20 minutes and gives you a chance to ask questions and for me to tell you the basics about what you can expect.

The length of therapy varies depending on your unique needs, goals, and circumstances. Some people find that a few sessions are enough to gain clarity, learn new coping strategies, or make a specific decision. Others may benefit from longer-term support to work through deeper issues, manage ongoing stress, or navigate a major life transition.

We’ll collaborate to regularly check in on your progress and adjust our work as needed. You’re never locked into a set number of sessions. Therapy moves at your pace, and you can pause or stop whenever you feel ready.

I see couples on a case-by-case basis. I also see men, trans people (I am an ally), and families, usually in the context of caring for another family member, and also on a case-by-case basis.

I do not currently see adolescents.

I see clients identifying as LGBTQIA+, and I am an ally.

I work with people from diverse backgrounds, ethnicities, and religions. As a clinical social worker, I approach therapy with a deep respect for each person’s unique cultural identity and experience.

My practice is rooted in cultural humility, meaning I aim to listen openly, recognize the impact of systemic inequalities, and continuously reflect on my assumptions. I strive to create a safe, inclusive space where clients can explore their experiences without judgment. I also welcome feedback and collaboration, so our work together is responsive to what matters most to you.

I offer psychotherapy to family members who are struggling with the emotional and practical challenges of caregiving.

In addition to therapy, I am a knowledgeable guide and support person who can help you navigate the healthcare system, understand your options, and make informed decisions. With years of experience as a medical social worker in hospitals and home health care, I bring practical insight into what caregivers face daily. I also assist with advanced care planning to help ensure your loved one’s wishes are understood and respected.

Deciding to end therapy – often referred to as “termination” – is a natural part of the therapeutic journey. Ideally, this occurs when you’ve achieved your goals and feel equipped with tools to navigate life’s challenges independently.

However, there are times when you might feel that therapy isn’t meeting your needs or that our sessions aren’t as effective as you’d hoped. It’s also common to experience complex feelings about the therapeutic process or even about me as your therapist. These emotions are valid and understandable, given the personal nature of our work together.

I encourage open communication about any concerns or thoughts you have regarding our sessions. Discussing your feelings can lead to adjustments that better support your needs or, if you choose, a thoughtful conclusion to our work.

You’re always free to discontinue therapy at any time. While you can stop attending sessions without notice, sharing your decision in a session can provide closure and ensure that your transition is as smooth and supportive as possible.