Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about therapy, how I work, or the logistics of getting started? You’ll find answers to common questions below. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, feel free to reach out. I am happy to help make sure you are able to make a decision that is best for you.
About Therapy
Is online therapy as effective as in-person therapy?
Yes! Research consistently shows that online therapy is just as effective as in-person therapy for most concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and trauma. The key to effective therapy isn’t the format—it’s the therapeutic relationship and your willingness to engage in the process. Online therapy offers the added benefits of accessibility, convenience, and the ability to participate from a space where you feel most comfortable.
What should I expect in my first session?
Your first session is a chance for us to get to know each other. We’ll talk about what brings you to therapy, what you’re hoping to achieve, and I’ll share more about how I work. There’s no pressure to have everything figured out—it’s simply a conversation to see if we’re a good fit. Learn more about what therapy with me is like.
How do I know if therapy is working for me?
Therapy isn’t always a straight line, but signs of progress include feeling more clarity about your thoughts and feelings, noticing shifts in how you respond to situations, feeling more comfortable being yourself, and experiencing less intensity or frequency of difficult emotions. We’ll check in regularly about what’s feeling helpful and adjust our approach as needed.
How long will I need therapy?
This varies for everyone and depends on what you’re working on and what you’re hoping to achieve. Some people find a few months helpful, while others benefit from longer-term support. We’ll talk about your goals and revisit them regularly. You’re always in control of how long you continue.
What if therapy doesn't feel like a good fit?
That’s completely okay and something we can talk about openly. Finding the right therapist is important, and sometimes it takes meeting a few people before you find the right match. If at any point you feel like we’re not the right fit, I’m happy to discuss it and, if needed, help you find someone who might be a better match for you.
Can therapy help with stress even if I don't have a mental health condition?
Absolutely. Therapy isn’t just for diagnosed mental health conditions—it’s for anyone navigating stress, relationship challenges, major life transitions, or difficult emotions. You don’t need to meet a certain threshold of struggle to benefit from therapy. If something feels hard or you’re looking for support, that’s reason enough to reach out.
Getting Started
What if I'm not sure therapy is right for me?
That’s a common feeling, and it’s okay to be uncertain. The free 30-minute consultation is a no-pressure way to explore whether therapy feels like the right step. You don’t have to have everything figured out before reaching out—curiosity is enough. We can talk about what’s bringing you to consider therapy and whether working together might be helpful. There’s no commitment required.
How do I get started?
Simply reach out through my contact page. We can schedule a free 30-minute introductory session where you can ask questions, get a sense of who I am, and see if working together feels right. There’s no commitment required. Get in touch.
Do I need a diagnosis to start therapy?
No, you don’t need a formal diagnosis to start therapy. Many people seek therapy for life challenges, relationship issues, personal growth, or navigating transitions—not just mental health diagnoses. Therapy is for anyone who wants support, clarity, or a space to process what they’re going through. Together, we’ll explore what’s bringing you to therapy and what support would be most helpful.
Do you offer a free consultation?
Yes! I offer a free 30-minute introductory video session. It’s a chance for you to ask questions, learn more about my approach, and see if we might be a good fit, with no pressure or commitment. Learn more.
What do I need for online sessions?
All you need is a device with a camera and microphone (computer, tablet, or smartphone), a good internet connection, and a private space where you feel comfortable talking. Sessions are conducted through a secure, web-based video platform. No special apps to download.
Do I have to be at home for sessions?
You can be anywhere that works for you with a good internet connection and privacy. However, due to licensing regulations, you must physically be in California, North Carolina, or Virginia during our sessions.
Fees & Insurance
Do you accept insurance?
I’m an out-of-network provider and don’t bill insurance directly. However, many clients seek reimbursement through their out-of-network benefits. I can provide a superbill for you to submit to your insurance company. Learn more about fees and insurance.
What are your rates?
Individual and couples therapy sessions are $150 for 50 minutes. Evening sessions (after 6 PM EST) are an additional $50. I also offer a limited number of sliding scale spots based on financial need. See full fee information.
Do you offer a sliding scale?
Yes, I have a limited number of sliding scale openings available based on financial need. If cost is a concern, please don’t hesitate to ask about current availability during our consultation. Learn more.
What payment methods do you accept?
I accept all major credit cards.
Logistics
How long are sessions?
Sessions are 50 minutes.
How often will we meet?
Most clients find weekly sessions helpful initially, though we can adjust the frequency based on what works best for you and your needs.
What's your cancellation policy?
Appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours’ notice may be subject to the full session fee. This policy helps ensure consistent availability for all clients. Learn more.
Are sessions confidential?
Yes, everything we discuss in therapy is confidential with a few legal exceptions (risk of harm to yourself or others, suspected child or elder abuse, or if records are subpoenaed by a court). I take your privacy seriously and use HIPAA-compliant platforms for all sessions.
Can I do therapy if I'm traveling or in a different state temporarily?
You must be physically located in California, North Carolina, or Virginia during our sessions due to licensing regulations. If you’re temporarily in one of these states (even if you live elsewhere), we can meet. If you travel outside these states, we’ll need to pause sessions until you return.
About My Practice
What issues do you specialize in?
I work with individuals and couples facing many different struggles. Some of the common areas where I support clients are with depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, identity questions, and life transitions. Also, as a Marine combat veteran, I also bring a unique understanding of military-related stress and trauma. See all areas I work with.
What's your background and training?
I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and retired Marine with combat experience. I hold a Master’s in Couples & Family Therapy and have worked in diverse settings including community mental health, forensic therapy, and substance use. Learn more about my background.
Do you work with veterans and active duty military?
Yes! As a Marine combat veteran myself, I bring firsthand understanding of military-related stress, trauma, and adjustment challenges. I work with both veterans and active duty service members. Many appreciate working with someone who has lived the military experience. Learn more about working with veterans and military families.
Do you work with men's issues?
Yes, many of my clients are men who appreciate working with a male therapist. I create a space where men can talk openly about struggles with emotions, relationships, identity, and life challenges without judgment.
Do you work with couples?
es, I work with couples who are looking to improve communication, deepen connection, rebuild trust, or navigate challenges in their relationship. Learn more about relationship therapy.
Still Have Questions?
I’m here to help. Whether you’re curious about working together or just want to learn more, reach out whenever you’re ready.