Frequently Asked Questions

How do I use my insurance?

As an an out-of-network therapist I can provide a superbill (the type of receipt that insurance companies request). Most of the time you can get 50% – 80% of your care paid for if your out-of-network benefits apply. This means you will only being paying $45-$115 per session depending on your plan!

I have partnered with Mentaya to simplify this process for you.

Not sure if you have out-of-network benefits? Please reach out! We are often able to check your benefits and save you the step of calling your insurance.

 

If you prefer to contact your insurance provider directly, below is a list of questions that will be helpful.

  • Do I have “out-of-network” mental health insurance benefits?
  • Is a referral/approval required from my primary care physician?
  • What is my deductible and has it been met? Can deductibles be met with out-of-network mental health appointments?
  • Once my deductible is met what percentage does the insurance pay and what percentage will be reimbursed?
  • How many sessions per year does my health insurance cover?

Please note that submitting an insurance claim means we will likely have to make a mental health diagnosis.

 

What are the benefits of an Out-Of-Network provider?

Privacy/Confidentiality. Insurances gather information about your treatment. This includes notes from each session, treatment plans, goals for therapy, etc. If you have concerns about your insurance provider receiving such information you may opt for the more protected out of network option or choose to not use your insurance at all. 

Flexibility of content of sessions. In-network therapists are  often restricted in what they can focus on in each session. Things happen in our life that we would like to discuss in therapy that may not fully focus on our diagnosis. An in-network therapist has less flexibility and must manage content during sessions to align with insurance billing. This can lead to a more one size fits all approach.

No need to add a diagnosis to your record. To receive payment from insurance companies, therapists need to assign you a “diagnosis.” This diagnosis can be carried with you in certain circumstances. Additionally, having a diagnosis (for example, depression) on your record may make it more difficult to receive other types of desired insurance, like life insurance, despite your being deserving of equal access. 

No limits on number and frequency of sessions or forced termination. Insurance companies can limit the amount of sessions you are allowed, so the therapist can only receive payment from the insurance company if you are “in crisis,” or only for a limited amount of sessions per year. This puts both you and your therapist at risk of cutting your work short, rushing your work together, or not reaching your fullest potential. Often, healing can be unpredictable. Some people overcome an obstacle in 5 sessions, others need 25, others need 365.

Another hurdle is switching jobs or your job switches insurance providers. You may be vulnerable to needing to switch your therapist after gaining trust, building a relationship, and reaching new levels of strength and security and you may not want to start over with someone new.

How do I choose the right therapist?

Look for a therapist with experience working with concerns similar to yours and whose approach resonates with you. Keep in mind that therapists often specialize just like other healthcare professionals. If the therapist is claiming to be an expert in working with everyone (couples, teens, adults, and kids) and also with every issue this might be something to be cautious of. It’s crucial to feel comfortable and safe with your therapist. Pay attention to how you feel during your initial consultation and early sessions. Trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to explore other options if something doesn’t feel right. Finding the right therapist can take time, but finding someone to help you achieve your therapy goals is worth it.

Can you tell me a little more about yourself?

I’d love to! Like many people drawn to this profession I found myself exploring the interconnectedness between my career and my personal life. I’m grateful for my own journey in therapy and the ways in which it continues to support the work I do. I feel most grounded outdoors and connected to nature. Although I have lived in Southern California for the last 15 years, the mountains will always feel a bit more like home. I love making espresso, lifting weights, reading, and laughing with good friends. I can sometimes be found using my grandmother’s sewing machine, altering clothes to update the style or make them more comfortable.

Can I see you in-person?

Yes! I am able to offer in-person appointments at a beautiful office space in Old Town Pasadena across from Urth Caffe (595 E Colorado Blvd, Suite 205).

There is free 1-hour street parking around the building or city parking lots offering parking for $1.50/hour.

Can I use my HSA/FSA funds or credit card?

Yes! I will provide you with a superbill for your records.

What can I expect in my first session?

Prior to your first session I will send you the intake and consent forms electronically. We will then review your information in our first session and discuss any questions or concerns you may have. The first session includes getting to know one another a bit more and learning more about your specific goals. We will honor your pace and what feels like it will be most helpful to your process.

Is what I share confidential?

Absolutely. Client confidentiality and privacy are a top priority in therapy.  What is shared during your sessions is completely confidential except in the following cases:

1) immediate threat of harm to self or other

2) suspicion of child, dependent adult, or elder abuse

3) in the case of a court subpoena

Confidentiality is something we will go over in more detail during the first session to ensure all your questions are answered.

How long are sessions and when are you available?

Sessions are 50 minutes. I currently have openings on either Monday or Tuesday.

What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule my appointment?

Your appointment is reserved specifically for you so I ask that you provide 24 hours notice for cancellations and rescheduling requests. Per the cancellation policy, if you are unable to provide at least 24 hours notice the full fee will be charged for the missed session.

As we all know unexpected events and emergencies may arise so I do waive one late cancellation per year.

 

What if I am in crisis?

If you are in crisis or experiencing a mental health emergency, it’s important to seek immediate help. Here are some resources you can contact for immediate assistance:

​If you are having thoughts/plans to harm yourself or someone else, please call 911 immediately or go to your nearest emergency room. You can also call or text the National Lifeline at 988. They have a chat feature that can be found at https://988lifeline.org/chat/. 

​If you are not in immediate crisis but would like to talk to someone now, please use one of the following resources:​

​Seeking help during a crisis is a sign of strength, and there is no shame in asking for help. Your safety and well-being are the top priority. Once you are safe and stable, we can work together to develop a long-term plan for ongoing support.

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