Frequently asked questions

You can call me at (661) 916-1733 (or see CONTACT page) and we could have a free phone conversation to discuss your needs, answer any question you may have, and decide if I would be the right therapist for your family.

At this moment, I am only offering online/virtual sessions.

Yes. We can meet virtually for sessions during and after the pandemic.  You just need internet connection.

I am not in-network with any insurance; however, if you have a PPO insurance plan, you may be able to ask your insurance for a reimbursement, since I would be considered an out-of-network provider. In that case, you will pay me directly after each session and I will provide you with a receipt for services that is called a "superbill". You will be able to submit this superbill to your insurance and once your claim is approved, your insurance will mail you a check.

The majority of PPO plans agree to reimburse you for a portion (or percentage) of the amount you pay per session and they may first apply that amount to your deductible (until you meet your yearly deductible).

I encourage you to contact your insurance to ask about your coverage. You can find the "costumer service" or "mental health" number in the back of your insurance card.

When you call, you may ask the following:

-"What is the maximum rate my plan will pay if I see an out-of-network provider for mental health?" 

If you are interested in receiving individual therapy, ask them specifically how much they will reimburse you for the code 90837 (with the modifier 95 if receiving telehealth). 

You can also ask,: -"Is there a limit to the number of sessions you will reimburse me for? 

-"What is the yearly deductible that I have to meet before you will start to reimburse me for out-of-network therapy sessions? How close am I right now to meet that deductible?

Just as a side note, have in mind that when insurances pay for therapy, they require to receive your diagnosis and other information about your treatment.

You may also decide to pay for your sessions with a HSA (Health Savings Account) or FSA (Flexible Spending Account). This would give you the benefit of paying for your sessions with pre-tax earnings.

My current fee is $ 160 per individual session. and $ 180 per family session. Each session time is approx. 50 minutes.

I have a limited amount of spaces in my practice to accommodate some clients at a reduced fee. Let me know If you are experiencing financial problems. If all my reduced-fee spaces are filled up at the moment you call, I will be happy to give you a referral to contact another professional.

Yes, I am able to provide some sessions late in the afternoon and on Saturdays. Online sessions may be a good option for you, since it could help you save the additional time of commuting to my office.

Typically, therapy sessions occur once a week in the beginning and may move to a bi-weekly or monthly basis as you/your child make progress. If you need additional support, I will be able to meet you more often.

Depending on your/your child's specific needs and goals, we could work together for a short-term or a longer-term. Some individuals feel satisfied after resolving the conflict or symptoms that brought them to therapy at the present time, while others feel enthusiastic about achieving further levels of improvement in their lives and relationships.

The length of the treatment also depends on your level of participation. You will get the best results from our work together if you actively participate in the process. 

Yes, Once a treatment begins, you. may call me if a serious crisis arises. Once your treatment is finished, you could also suddenly reach me in the future if needing support. When you call me, I will answer as soon as I am able to. In a life threatening situation, please always call 911.

If you experience a crisis that is less serious, but you feel that you need a session sooner than scheduled, I will try my best to accommodate my schedule to meet you sooner or I will provide you support over the phone until we can meet.

Yes. What we discuss in your sessions is confidential (meaning that I will not share it with other people, unless I have your consent). However, I am required by state law and professional ethics to break confidentiality in some exceptional circumstances such as, for example:

* When I suspected or hear about past or present abuse or neglect of children, dependent adults, and/or elders. In those circumstances, I will have to notify the authorities, including Child Protection Services/law enforcement, based on the information provided.

* When I suspect or know that you are in serious danger of harming yourself or others. 

I will provide you with a written form and explain you more about the exceptions to confidentiality when we start treatment.

Having the right connection and therapeutic rapport with a therapist is very important. If you feel that we are not a good fit, I will refer you to another professional. No hurt feelings. This is completely normal and I don't take it personal.