FAQs
Why a clinical social work degree?
It can feel overwhelming to parse out the differences between providers: PhDs, PsyDs, LMFTs, LCSWs, and LPCCs. Each license has its own scope of practice and variation on how to approach clinical work, but they all fall under the same larger psychotherapy umbrella. I chose to pursue the social work route because it places anti-oppressive practice at the forefront. Human behavior and mental health are assessed in relationship to ecological systems across the lifespan. This perspective considers the impact from internalized, interpersonal, institutional, and ideological influences.
Where did you complete your training?
I began my clinical training in 2018. Since then, I have provided therapy in community mental health clinics, private practice settings, and a pediatric hospital. I‘ve worked as a clinician at the Liberation Institute (SF), Pacific Center for Human Growth (Berkeley), and the Center for Mindful Psychotherapy (SF). These organizations offer sliding scale services on a weekly, long-term basis. Notably, Pacific Center is the oldest LGBTQIA+ center in the Bay Area. I have also worked in pediatric endocrinology (inpatient and outpatient) at UCSF Children’s Hospital Oakland. Now I am self-employed and working solely in private practice.
Would we be a good fit?
The best way to determine this is by scheduling a free 20-minute consultation call. During our conversation, I would be interested to learn what you are looking for in a therapy relationship. I would also welcome your questions and consider ways that we might collaborate. I recognize that it can be vulnerable and intimidating to share your story with an unfamiliar person. My intention is to respect your process and timeline. If we decide to explore healing work together, it is my job to earn your trust and create safety in the room.
How often would we meet?
At the beginning of our work together, I generally request that we meet once a week. This helps establish consistency as we get to know each other. After 6+ months, I am open to reassessing our session frequency if you are someone who might prefer meeting every other week. This switch would also involve consideration regarding my current availability and schedule.
What is your fee?
My full fee is set at $200 per 50-minute individual session. This amount factors in the time a clinician spends completing valuable but unpaid labor e.g. paperwork, resource sharing, client advocacy, and coordinated care. I do reserve a few sliding scale spots in my practice. Please let me know if this would make services more accessible for you. Fees for group therapy meetings are variable.
Do you accept insurance?
I do not currently take insurance. However, I am able to provide you with a superbill upon request. A superbill is an itemized receipt that you can submit to your insurance provider for potential reimbursement. Depending on your out-of-network coverage, this could offset some of the cost. You would be responsible for paying the full fee out-of-pocket at your time of service.
What is your cancellation policy?
To avoid paying a full fee, I request 24 hours of advance notice if you need to cancel your appointment. However, I do try my best to accommodate last minute requests to reschedule in lieu of this payment, especially if you identify as someone with a chronic illness. If you inform me that you are not feeling well, I will attempt to offer alternative meeting times. I have compassion for unpredictable health flares and, when possible, will do my best to minimize the related financial impact.
Why are you licensed in two states?
I’ve completed my initial training and licensure requirements in the state of California. I currently reside and work in the East Bay, and I don’t anticipate leaving in the near future. However, I have previously called Vermont home and would joyfully return one day. Part of my heart still lives in the Green Mountain State, which is why I am interested in maintaining a professional connection. I’m especially keen on working with college students and alumni from my alma mater.
What is a Good Faith Estimate?
Before attending medical appointments, you are entitled to receive information about the total anticipated cost of non-emergency healthcare services. I will provide you with a Good Faith Estimate (GFE) as part of your intake packet. If you receive a bill that is $400+ more than your GFE, you are legally entitled to dispute the charge. This is connected to the No Surprises Act, a federal law that went into effect in 2022. The intention is to protect patients from surprise medical bills.