Practice Information
If you are a new patient, you may have some questions regarding my practice. Entering into therapy can be anxiety producing. It is normal to wonder what to expect.
The following information will help you to prepare for your initial visit.
During the pandemic, sessions are by appointment only and are currently only offered virtually on the Zoom platform for individuals residing in California and or Pennsylvania.
Private Practice
My practice is private pay and full payment is due each session unless other arrangements are made. I am not a provider for insurance panels or Medicare. I am an out-of-network provider which means that I can give you an invoice at the end of the month so that you can submit claims to your plan for reimbursement.
Fees:
Initial Assessment: $500 for 90 minutes
Individual Sessions: $250 for 50 minute session
Groups: $75 for a 90 minute group
Sliding scale may be available based on your financial needs and availability in my practice.
Cancellations:
Once an appointment has been scheduled, this time will be saved exclusively for you, therefore, a 24-hour notice of cancellation is required to avoid being charged full fee for the session.
Therapeutic Approach
I use an eclectic and humanistic approach, with an emphasis on cognitive-behavioral therapy and mind-body therapies. I believe that healing happens only by attending to the whole person: mind, body, emotions and spirit. My unique approach utilizes the most current literature on the assessment and treatment of psychological concerns. I take into consideration and utilize theories and perspectives that fit the individual’s unique background, current situation, needs and values. I am “straight forward” and will work collaboratively with you to meet your needs and goals. I readily refer to other professionals for a variety of issues, including those that may be beyond my expertise and to a psychiatrist who provides medication consultation.
I have special training in trauma and loss and am a Certified Somatic Experiencing Practitioner as well as being certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing. I utilize both approaches in working with the symptoms and healing of trauma.
Forms for Initial Appointment:
Please download and complete 3 of the forms on this page and bring them to your first appointment. The HIPPA Notice of Privacy form is for your records and does not need to be returned.
Office Policies
Group Therapy Agreement:
If there is availability in a group and you have been approved to join, please complete and return the following paperwork.
General Forms and Notices:
Bereavement, Grief and Loss
It’s important to recognize that grief and loss are all around us. If you take time to pay attention and do your grief work, the loss will always be a part of your life but it won’t run your life. Loss does heal. What you don’t grieve, waits for you and may surprise you when it gets coupled to other losses unexpectedly.
When we think of grief and loss, we often think of having a loved one die but it’s also about loss that comes with changes and transitions in life. That may mean an empty nest, losing a job, a divorce or breakup…and yes, even all of the many layers of loss that come with a pandemic. Loss lurks everywhere and can be difficult and challenging. You can heal if you give it attention and find your way through.
I have an expertise in Bereavement, Grief and Loss and serve as Executive Director of HOPE Connection, Inc., a nonprofit that has offered grief support groups to the Los Angeles community since 1979. www.hopegroups.org I have worked as a group facilitator with HOPE Connection for over 28 years. Witnessing and being a part of the healing that occurs in the groups is a sacred experience and honor.
Modalities
Individual and Group Psychotherapy
People sometimes question, which one is right for me? In reality, they work well together.
To use a simple metaphor, individual therapy is like taking flute lessons where you learn about yourself, work on and resolve your personal wounding and issues. Group therapy is like joining the orchestra and learning to be and interact with others in a more harmonious way.