Do you take insurance?

At this time I do not take insurance and am private pay only (see my Services page for information on pricing). I choose not to work directly with insurance companies because their policies often compromise both the quality of care clients receive and the autonomy of the therapeutic process. Insurance can impose limitations on session frequency, require invasive disclosures, and dictate treatment goals that may not align with a client’s unique needs. It also limits a therapist’s ability to manage a sustainable caseload, pursue ongoing training, take needed time off, and care for their own mental health - all of which are essential to providing ethical, high-quality care.

By operating independently, I’m able to offer more personalized, confidential, and client-centered therapy - focused solely on what’s best for you.

While I don’t bill insurance directly, I can provide a monthly Superbill - an itemized receipt you can submit to your insurance provider for potential out-of-network reimbursement. Coverage varies by plan, so I recommend checking with your insurer to confirm your out-of-network mental health benefits by calling the number on the back of your card or checking benefits online.

Is telehealth for me?

At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, many providers transitioned to teletherapy, and I have personally found it to be a rewarding shift. Telehealth offers the flexibility for clients to engage in sessions from a space where they feel most comfortable. I conduct sessions through a secure, HIPAA-compliant video conferencing platform called Simple Practice. Additionally, I offer both video and phone sessions, depending on your preference.

In order to engage in telehealth, you will need a reliable internet connection and a video device (e.g. cell phone, computer, iPAD). It is also important that you have access to a private space to join your telehealth session (this is often a private room in your home or in your car - but please, no active driving during your session!) - if this is an issue, please discuss this with me.

If this is your first experience with teletherapy, there's no need to worry! Many clients have adapted quickly and find the convenience of attending sessions from the comfort of their own space to be highly beneficial. According to the American Psychological Association, teletherapy has been shown to be just as effective as in-person therapy for addressing a wide range of mental health concerns.

Although, please keep in mind that teletherapy is not for everyone and if you prefer in-person therapy, I am happy to discuss in-person options at my office in SODO, Seattle to best fit your needs.

I’ve never done therapy before/I’m nervous to start!

It's completely normal to feel this way! It's rare for someone to attend their first therapy session without experiencing some level of nervousness. Therapy can be an intimidating and vulnerable experience, especially when you're sharing personal thoughts and feelings with someone you just met. As we continue working together, please know that I'm here to support you through those emotions. Many clients find that as they progress through a few sessions, their comfort levels improve significantly. If you ever feel nervous or uneasy, I encourage you to let me know. My goal is to foster a warm, welcoming, and supportive environment throughout our time together.

Do you work with children and teens?

At this time, my practice is focused on those 18 years old and older. If you are in need of referrals for child or teen psychotherapy or assessments, I will happily provide those.

How can I get the most out of therapy?

Successful therapy depends on several factors, but I believe the therapeutic relationship and the effort you invest play a crucial role in its effectiveness.

Through therapy, you will gain valuable insights about yourself and discover new strategies that can be integrated into your daily life. In my experience, clients who commit to attending sessions regularly, set clear goals, actively participate in therapy exercises (such as journaling or practicing relaxation techniques), and remain committed to the process tend to benefit the most. Additionally, a positive and comfortable relationship with your therapist is essential for progress, which is why finding a therapist who feels like the right fit for you is so important.

What is Inference-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for OCD?

I-CBT (Inferential Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) is a treatment specifically designed for adults with OCD. It differs from the more commonly known Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) in its approach. I-CBT targets a cognitive process called “inferential confusion,” which is a core contributor to OCD. This occurs when individuals lose trust in their senses - such as common sense, their five senses, and even their sense of self - while becoming consumed by intrusive thoughts and imagined scenarios. I-CBT emphasizes that obsessions are driven by irrational doubts about what “could be” or “might be,” which in turn fuel compulsions. The therapy focuses on restoring trust in your reality, senses, and present moment. If you are interested in learning more about I-CBT and whether it could be a good fit for you, feel free to reach out. I'd be happy to discuss it further.

Are our sessions confidential?

Confidentiality is a fundamental aspect of the therapeutic relationship, as therapy often involves discussing sensitive and personal topics. At the start of our work together, you will receive detailed information about my privacy practices and your rights regarding confidentiality. It's important to note that there are certain exceptions to confidentiality, primarily related to safety concerns, which will be thoroughly explained during our first session. If you have any questions or concerns about confidentiality, please feel free to ask - I'm here to ensure you feel comfortable and informed.

What if we are not a good therapist/client fit?

It’s completely normal to find that a therapist may not be the best fit for your needs, and I strongly believe in the importance of finding the right therapist for you. I recognize that I may not be the best fit for everyone, and if you're feeling this way, please don't hesitate to let me know (I promise, we don’t take it personally!). I'm more than happy to discuss your concerns and explore what might be a better fit for you. If I determine that there are other providers or services that would better address your needs, such as a higher level of care or another provider specifically trained in approaches that may be beneficial to you, we will have an open and transparent conversation about next steps and I will provide appropriate referrals.

Do you offer an initial consultation before deciding to engage in therapy with you?

Yes! I offer a complimentary 15-minute consultation to help determine if we are a good fit for working together in therapy. During this time, I encourage you to ask any questions that will help you make an informed decision. I will also ask questions to assess whether my services and expertise align with your needs. This consultation does not obligate you to continue with therapy, nor does it guarantee therapy services. If, after the consultation, we agree to move forward, we will schedule a separate 75-minute intake appointment. If you're interested in scheduling a free consultation, please feel free to contact me here.