Whole Heart Therapy
I'm new to therapy - how does it work?
The first step to beginning is to have a quick conversation with me. During this phone call, ask me what my style is and how I would describe myself as a therapist. The most important ingredient of any therapeutic relationship is the connection that you and your therapist create.
When you have decided you want to begin. Call or email me to schedule an appointment. I will ask you for your email address to send you the new client paperwork. I use an electronic health management practice platform that is HIPAA compliant. This paperwork includes your consent to begin treatment which is required before the first session.
Once you have submitted the new client paperwork, we will schedule your appointment. If we are meeting in person, please come to my office located at 13001 Seal Beach Blvd, Suite 360 (right off Interstate 405 in Seal Beach). If we are meeting via Telehealth, you will receive an email with a link to a HIPAA compliant Zoom session.
Fees
The fee is $150 for a 50-minute session.
Please call me for a 20-minute phone/video consultation at no cost. The right fit is crucial for effective counseling.
There are a limited number of reduced-fee slots for clients and families who cannot otherwise afford counseling. If you are interested in a reduced-fee, please ask, and if a slot is availble, your fee will be reduced.
Payment
Payment is received using a HIPAA complicant application called Ivy that takes Visa, MasterCard, and Discover.
Insurance
Currently accepting Medicare insurance and private pay. If you have other mental healh insurance benefits, I can create a super bill for you to give to your insurance carrier who may pay out-of-network benefits.
FAQs
What is your schedule?
Telehealth appointments are available Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from Noon - 6pm PT via Telehealth or in-person sessions at the Seal Beach office.
What precautions are provided for public safety?
Masks are required at all times while in the office unless you are vaccinated, I will clean all surfaces in the office between sessions. Hand sanitizer is available in the lobby and my office. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask. Know that telehealth is always an option for your health and comfort..
Do you have evening or weekend appointments?
Unfortunately, there are no weekend appointments at this time.
Do you accept credit cards?
Yes, Visa, MasterCard, and Discover through Ivy Pay, a secure application.
Can I call you during the week if there is a crisis?
Absolutely! Phone calls 10 minutes or less are free. If you need more time, a phone session will be billed to you.
If I am not available and you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please call 911 or your county crisis line:
- Orange County, CA 877 727-4747
What should I expect at my first session?
Prior to our first session, you will be asked to complete initial paperwork via a client portal that is secure and confidential. During your first session, I will listen to your concerns and situation, learn what your goals are in counseling and start to define a treatment plan.
Why should I see someone who isn't covered by my insurance?
Even if you have good mental health benefits, paying out of pocket has a variety of advantages, including:
- Freedom in choosing your provider. You can choose a provider that is the best fit for you and more consistent with your values.
- No mental health disorders on your medical record (you don't need to meet "medical necessity" with a documented diagnosis)
- You can seek treatment for personal concerns, family communication difficulties, and other issues that insurance typically does not cover
- The length, frequency, and duration of therapy is based on your needs, not your managed health care restrictions
- You have more control over how your personal health information is used
There are so many therapists out there! How do I choose?
Research has shown that the relationship is the most important indicator of success in therapy. Unfortunately, it is difficult to determine from a website whether you will connect well with a therapist. There are a few things you can do to help you decide:
- Look at a therapist's specialties and experience. Does he or she know how to work with your specific needs and issues?
- Therapy is one of those things where intuition and "vibes" can be important. Trust your gut instinct.
- Most therapists offer free short consultations to determine whether you're a good fit. If you can't decide between a handful of options, that initial contact is a great non-committal way to get a feel for their personality and style.