Frequently Asked Questions
Therapy brings up a lot of questions — about the process, the relationship, the logistics, and what to expect. Below you’ll find thoughtful answers to the things most people wonder about as they consider starting therapy with me.
Getting Started With Therapy
What can I expect in a consultation?
A consultation is simply a conversation. You’ll share a bit about what’s bringing you to therapy, allow space for questions, and I’ll tell you about how I work. We’re really just getting a sense of each other.
If you’re unsure afterward but still curious, we can schedule a first session as a trial to see how it feels in practice.
What will our first session be like?
Our first session doesn’t need to cover your entire history or rush toward a diagnosis. Since I’m not billing insurance, we have the freedom to slow down. Many people find that once they finally book their first appointment with a therapist, things they’ve been carrying suddenly come forward — and we make room for that.
We’ll orient together, explore what feels most alive or “up” for you that day, and let the session unfold naturally.
How do I know if we’re a good fit?
Therapy works best when the relationship feels safe, grounded, and attuned. You don’t need to feel instantly comfortable — but you should feel a sense of possibility, curiosity, or relief. If something feels off, we can name it together. Fit is something we discover in real time, not something you have to figure out alone.
If we discover that our work isn’t the right fit, I’ll gladly help you connect with a therapist whose style and approach match what you’re looking for.
Approach & Style
What is your therapeutic approach?
My work is relational at its core, drawing from Internal Family Systems (IFS), AEDP, Emotion-Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and trauma-informed principles. I integrate what’s helpful rather than following a rigid structure.
You can expect collaboration, attunement, curiosity, and room to be fully human.
What kinds of concerns do you work with?
I specialize in supporting adults navigating:
identity exploration
trauma and complex trauma
grief and loss
anxiety, overwhelm, and burnout
ADHD & neurodivergence
relationship patterns
transitions, purpose, and meaning
self-esteem and self-trust
These are some of the themes I work with most often, but the list isn’t exhaustive. If something in your life feels important to explore, we can begin there.
Do you assign homework or structure between sessions?
I sometimes offer practices or reflections, but only when they support your process — never as an obligation.
You’ll mostly be encouraged to take things at your pace, check in with your internal world, and notice what shifts between sessions.
Logistics & Practicalities
What are your session rates?
Individual therapy: $150 per 50-minute session
Supervision: $125 per 50-minute session
Consultation: $100 per 50-minute session
Longer sessions are available upon request at 1.5x the rate.
Do you take insurance?
I’m not paneled with insurance companies, so sessions are paid out of pocket. If your plan includes out-of-network benefits, I can create a superbill for you to request reimbursement.
One benefit of paying privately is that your therapy stays between us — no required diagnosis, no treatment restrictions, and no insurance reviews.
How do payments work?
Payments are processed through a secure client portal. Your card is charged manually on the morning of your session, so we can catch any issues before we meet or address it at the start of session.
What is your cancellation policy?
Sessions must be canceled with at least 24 hours’ notice. Late cancellations and no-shows are charged the full fee.
I offer one grace late-cancel per client for unexpected life events, and I approach true emergencies on a case-by-case basis.
What is a Good Faith Estimate (GFE)?
Good Faith Estimate for Health Care Items and Services
You have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” explaining how much your medical care will cost
Under the law, health care providers need to give patients who don’t have insurance or who are not using insurance an estimate of the bill for medical items and services.
You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency items or services. This includes related costs like medical tests, prescription drugs, equipment, and hospital fees.
Make sure your health care provider gives you a Good Faith Estimate in writing at least 1 business day before your medical service or item. You can also ask your health care provider, and any other provider you choose, for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule an item or service.
If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can dispute the bill.
Make sure to save a copy or picture of your Good Faith Estimate.
For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises or call 866-226-1819.
Policies & Boundaries
Do you provide diagnoses?
I only diagnose when it’s clinically relevant or required (e.g., for superbills or GFE compliance). Therapy with me does not revolve around labeling — we focus on understanding your internal world rather than fitting you into a category.
If a diagnosis is needed or desired, we can discuss it thoughtfully.
Do you work with clients outside Oregon and California?
I currently serve clients in Oregon and California, where I am licensed. You must be physically located in one of these states at the time of your session.
What technology do you use for sessions?
I use HIPAA-compliant Zoom. You’ll receive a secure, private link in your client portal, and we’ll check in about tech access and comfort if needed.
Supervision & Consultation
Do you offer supervision for associates?
Yes — I provide relational, attuned supervision for Oregon and California associates. We focus on strengthening clinical instincts, deepening therapeutic presence, and building confidence as a developing therapist.
I will soon be able to provide supervision to Washington associates, as well.
You can learn more on my supervision page.
Do you offer clinical consultation for licensed therapists?
Yes. I offer consultation for clinicians seeking support around grief work, parts work, relational therapy, and case conceptualization.
This space mirrors the therapy room: grounded, collaborative, and spacious.
Practical Client Questions
How often do we meet?
Most clients begin weekly to build momentum and create relational safety. Some shift to biweekly once they feel grounded. We’ll discuss what rhythm supports your system and your goals.
What if I’m nervous about therapy or have never done it before?
That’s incredibly normal. Therapy can feel both hopeful and scary at the same time. We’ll take things step by step, pausing often, and shape the work around what feels truly supportive.
Can I try a session if I’m still unsure?
Yes. After your consultation, we can schedule an initial session as a “trial” to see how the relationship feels. Nothing is set in stone. You get to take the time you need to see whether this space feels supportive.
If you’re feeling curious about starting, I’d be glad to talk with you.