Question 1

Do you offer sessions in-person and via video?

Accepted Answer

Yes! I offer BOTH in-person and virtual therapy sessions based on your clinical needs, location, and personal preference.

In person sessions are held in my San Jose, CA office at 1101 S Winchester Blvd M257, San Jose, CA 95128.

Virtual sessions are held via my confidential, HIPPA-compliant, telehealth video platform. Telehealth sessions are, for the most part, very similar to in-person therapy sessions. Participating in telehealth sessions allows for greater convenience and in some situations makes psychological services available when they would not be otherwise. It allows us to connect more easily without needing to be within traveling distance from a physical office. Many people find it comforting to participate in therapy from the safety and familiarity of their own home.

Question 2

How often will I need to attend therapy and for how long?

Accepted Answer

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this. The right rhythm for therapy depends on what you’re going through and the kind of support that would feel most helpful right now.

Many clients begin with weekly sessions so we can build momentum and create a steady space for support. As things begin to feel more manageable, some clients choose to space sessions out to every other week or schedule occasional check-ins during transitions or stressful seasons.

Therapy isn’t about a set timeline—it’s about making sure you feel supported in a meaningful way during this chapter of your life. Therapy may be short-term and focused on a specific transition, or longer-term if you’d like continued support as you navigate different seasons. We’ll regularly check in about what feels most helpful for you. My goal is to provide the right level of support for where you are—helping you feel more steady, confident, and supported.

Question 3

What equipment do I need for video sessions?

Accepted Answer

To participate in a video session, you will need a personal electronic device with a camera, microphone, and speaker (computer / smart phone / tablet), and a reliable internet or cellular connection.

Question 4

Can I be out of state when we have our virtual session?

Accepted Answer

No. It is a legal requirement for mental health professionals to provide counseling to clients who reside in the state in which they are licensed. I am licensed in the states of California. As such, you need to be physically present in California or Michigan when you participate in a telehealth session.

Question 5

Are there any treatment concerns beyond your scope of practice?

Accepted Answer

Given that I am an individual outpatient provider, it would not be clinically appropriate to treat more acute psychological issues including, but not limited to, acute suicidality or self-harm behaviors, psychosis, or mania, moderate to severe eating disorders, or active alcohol or drug dependence. For example, if you have been recently hospitalized for a psychiatric reason, you would be best served by a more intensive outpatient program that meets in-person multiple days a week before stepping down to weekly outpatient treatment. In addition, as an individual provider, I am unable to provide crisis or 24/7 after-hours services.

Should you have further questions about therapeutic fit, you can reach out to schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation. If I am not a good fit to provide you with therapeutic services, I would be happy to connect you with other referrals and resources that could better support you.

Question 6

What services are you unable to provide?

Accepted Answer

I do not provide the following services, as they are outside my scope of practice:

Custody evaluations
Visitation recommendations
Disability evaluations
Letters for Emotional Support Animals (ESA)

Question 7

Do you work with children?

Accepted Answer

No. In my practice, all clients need to be age 18+.

Question 8

Can I use my insurance for payment?

Accepted Answer

In order to uphold the highest quality of care, I do not accept insurance. This enables us to select a treatment approach that is best suited for you and not dictated by insurance companies or contingent on a diagnosis. Should you wish to try and seek reimbursement from your personal health insurance, I would be happy to provide you with a receipt of services or "superbill".  It is advised that you reach out to your insurance provider to learn about your specific coverage for counseling with an "out-of-network" mental health provider. Contact me for a "cheat sheet" of helpful questions to ask your insurance company to learn more about your benefits.

Question 9

What do the letters by your name mean?

Accepted Answer

The letters are an abbreviation that signal specific education, training, and credentials that a provider has.

LPCC (Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor) means that I have the training, education, and experience to provide compassionate, evidence-based counseling to promote emotional well-being and improve mental health.

PMH-C (Perinatal Mental Health Certified) means that I have additional training to provide counseling support to those in the perinatal phase of life from fertility concerns through postpartum.

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