What Getting Started Looks Like
You Don’t Have to Have the Perfect Words
Many people feel unsure about how to begin therapy or worry about saying the “right” thing. That’s normal. Starting therapy can feel daunting, but you don’t need a clear diagnosis, a polished explanation, or a detailed plan. The first step in the consultation process is simply a conversation about what’s been happening, what feels stuck, and what you’re hoping might change.
Individual therapy here is about learning more about yourself. That often includes moments of discomfort, and that’s okay. Discomfort isn’t a sign that something is wrong; it’s often part of understanding ourselves more clearly.
What the Consultation is (and isn’t)
The consultation process is a brief, structured conversation. We’ll discuss what led you to reach out, what you’re hoping for from individual therapy, and how you typically respond when things feel difficult or slow. I’ll also share how I work and what this process usually asks of people. This is not a therapy session, and it’s not an intake. There’s no obligation to continue. The purpose is to decide whether starting therapy with this approach and this working relationship feels like a good fit.
Practical Considerations & Scheduling
I provide individual therapy to adults located in PSYPACT participating states, as well as in Florida and California. Sessions are available on a private pay basis or through EAP (Employee Assistance Program) benefits. Through Alma, I am credentialed with Aetna, Cigna, Optum, and Carelon EAP programs in California and Florida. Many employers offer EAP sessions at no cost to you — it's worth checking with your HR department before assuming you need to pay out of pocket.
Scheduling is simple: once we've had a brief consultation and you're ready to move forward, we'll set up your intake appointment and get started. All sessions are conducted via telehealth.
Private pay gives you something insurance can't: complete privacy. When insurance is used, a diagnosis becomes part of your permanent record and is shared with third parties. Many clients value the discretion, flexibility, and freedom that comes with paying directly — with no claim, no diagnosis requirement, and no outside involvement in your care.
A Superbill can be provided upon request if you'd like to seek potential reimbursement from your insurance company as an out-of-network provider. This is entirely your choice to pursue independently.
Deciding Whether to Move Forward
If you’re unsure about reaching out, that’s normal. The work I do in individual therapy is not crisis-focused, and it’s not about helping you feel better in the immediate sense. It’s for people who want to look more closely at the behaviors and patterns they continue to repeat, even when they know those patterns are causing them pain. Before starting therapy, it can be helpful to reflect on a simple question: What would you want to be different after our work together is finished? There isn’t a right answer to that. The point isn’t to have clarity or a plan. It’s to notice what kind of change you’re hoping for, and whether that change involves understanding yourself differently, not just changing circumstances. This page is here to help you decide whether that way of working—and this consultation process—feels like a fit for you right now.