FAQs
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In the first session, we go through an intake to help me understand different areas of your life. If there’s ever a question you don’t feel comfortable answering, we can go at your pace — you can let me know, and that’s completely okay. If you’re unsure why I’m asking a question, just ask me and I’ll explain why it’s important.
This doesn’t always happen, but sometimes I may refer you to another therapist after the first session. Things don’t always come up during the consult, and another therapist may be a better match. Part of my job is to help you find and receive the care you deserve.
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Everyone moves through therapy at their own pace. Some people start feeling a difference in a few months, while others need more time to sort through emotions and situations. There’s no ‘right’ timeline — what matters is that we go at a pace that feels safe and comfortable for you.
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Most everything we talk about in therapy is confidential. The only times I am required by law to share information are in a few specific situations, which are listed below:
A danger to yourself or someone else
Abuse/neglect to a child, elder, or dependent adult
Court order or special legal circumstances
When it comes to communicating with your parents, I’ll only share what is necessary for your care or safety. I will always check in with you first about what you feel comfortable having me share and what you prefer to keep private. There may be times when I encourage you to talk with your parent directly, especially if it can help improve communication or strengthen your relationship, but we’ll always discuss that together beforehand.
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As a parent, I understand the desire to stay informed about what your teen is discussing in therapy. To protect their privacy and maintain the therapeutic relationship, I will not share specific details of our conversations unless your teen agrees. If your teen is in danger of harming themselves or others, or if there is any suspicion of abuse, I will contact you immediately with an update.
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At MMHC we do not accept insurance and here is why!
Choosing not to work directly with insurance allows me to provide care that’s more personalized, private, and flexible. Insurance companies often require a mental health diagnosis and may limit the number or type of sessions covered. By working outside of those systems, I can focus fully on your needs—not just what’s covered. It also gives us more freedom in how we work together, without outside restrictions on your care. That said, I’m happy to provide a super-bill that can be submitted through insurance which may offer partial reimbursement. -
A 48-hour notice is required for cancellations. If you cancel with less notice, you will be charged for the session. However, if you are able to reschedule within the same week (and I have availability), there will be no charge. In cases of emergency or illness preventing you from meeting via telehealth, there will also be no charge.
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You may notice a decrease in your symptoms and feel less emotionally reactive. You might feel like you can finally take a deep breath and relax. Therapy can also help you better understand your emotions, respond to situations in healthier ways, improve your relationships, and gain skills to cope with stress or challenges. Progress doesn’t always happen all at once — sometimes it’s small changes that add up over time, and that’s still a sign that therapy is helping.
Book Recommendations
Marbles
A Graphic Memoir by Ellen Forney
No Parent Left Behind
Dr. Candice Feinberg
Betty
Tiffany McDaniel
Therapist Referrals
While I don’t treat every diagnosis, I truly want to help you find the care that best fits your needs. Below are several trusted therapists in the area, thoughtfully organized by specialty and diagnosis. Please note that these referrals are not limited to the diagnoses listed and may support a range of mental health concerns.
“There is immense power when a group of people with similar interests gets together to work toward the same goals.”
OCD:
Dr. Max Maisel, PHD https://beachfrontanxiety.com/
Melissa Hogan, LPCC https://mindfulwithmelissah.com/
Eating Disorders:
Amy Ruffolo Quinn, LCSW https://www.amyquinn.com/
Isabella Laughlin, LMFT, ATR-BC https://www.isabellalaughlin.com/
Couples Therapy:
Barbara Gani, LCSW https://barbaragani.com/
Mary Donaldson, LMFT https://www.witsendtherapy.co/
Christina King, LMFT https://www.christinakingfamilytherapy.com/
EMDR:
Zach Galasi, ACSW, MSW https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/zachary-galasi-santa-monica-ca/1402942
Psychiatrist:
Dr. Gil Hoftman, MD, PHD https://www.helixpsych.com/
Dr. Henry Do, DO https://www.psychiatrywithdrdo.com/
Sex Therapy:
Erica N. Thrower, LCSW https://www.ericathrowerlcsw.com/index.html
Faith-Based Therapy:
Hypnotherapy:
Niki Payne, LMFT https://hypnodipity.com/
Clear Behavioral Health https://clearbehavioralhealth.com/programs/outpatient-mental-health-treatment-los-angeles/
IOP’s/PHP’s:
Rowi Teen & Parent Wellness Centers https://rowiteen.com/
Residentials:
Blume Behavioral Health https://blumebh.com/