Frequently Asked Questions

Services & Practical Details

What services do you offer?

I offer individual and couples’ psychotherapy sessions.

Do you offer online therapy sessions?

Yes, I do! You can choose between Teletherapy and in-person sessions at my office. Online therapy is conducted through a secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform, giving you the flexibility to meet from a private space that works for you.

How long does each therapy session last?

Individual therapy sessions typically last 50 minutes, while couples’ sessions are 60 minutes.

How long does therapy typically last?

The length of therapy varies based on your unique needs and goals. Some clients might find what they need in a few months to a year, focusing on specific skills or areas of life. Others may choose to continue for several years, appreciating the weekly space to process feelings, reflect deeply, and develop long-lasting emotional insight. The pace is always tailored to your comfort and therapeutic goals.

How often do I need to attend therapy sessions?

You'll get the most benefit from therapy by committing to at least weekly sessions. This consistency helps build a strong working relationship and provides the momentum needed for therapeutic progress. If helpful, we may discuss meeting twice weekly, and over time we can reassess the frequency based on your evolving needs.

What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule a session?

Life happens, and I understand that. If you need to cancel or reschedule, please let me know at least 48 hours in advance. This allows time to adjust schedules and offer the appointment to someone else. If you're unable to provide 48 hours’ notice, the full session fee will be charged.

Understanding the Therapy Process

How can therapy help me? What should I expect? What do you expect from me?

Therapy provides a dedicated, protected space each week to focus on your emotional well-being. We will take the time to build trust, help you feel comfortable, and explore what brings you to therapy. You can expect emotional support, thoughtful questions, new perspectives, and opportunities to learn and practice coping skills.
I encourage you to bring curiosity, openness, and a willingness to reflect both in and between sessions, as growth often comes from noticing patterns and trying new ways of responding.

How do I know if you are the right therapist for me?

Choosing the right therapist is important, and I want you to feel confident in your decision. I offer a free 50-minute consultation (on Zoom or in person at my office at 879 14th street, San Francisco, CA 94114) ) so we can meet, discuss your needs, and see if my approach fits what you’re looking for. You’re welcome to share your preferences, ask questions, and offer feedback at any time—therapy works best when it feels collaborative.

How do I know if your approach is right for me?

I practice psychodynamic psychotherapy, an approach focused on deeper self-understanding, emotional insight, and long-term, meaningful change. This type of therapy may be right for you if you’re curious about your inner world, want to understand the origins of your patterns, and are seeking more than short-term strategies. If you’re primarily looking for quick or highly structured interventions, this approach may not be the best match.

How will I know if therapy is working?

Signs that therapy is working may include feeling more supported and understood, gaining new insights into your emotions or relationship patterns, developing healthier coping skills, and noticing gradual shifts in how you respond to stress or conflict. Growth can be subtle at first, but over time these changes create meaningful long-term improvements.

Common Concerns & First-Time Questions

What makes your approach different from other practices?

My practice emphasizes depth, emotional safety, and sustained growth. Unlike short-term or symptom-focused models, psychodynamic therapy allows us to explore both present struggles and the underlying experiences that shaped them. This creates the foundation for lasting, transformative change rather than temporary relief.

I’ve tried therapy before and it didn’t work—what makes your practice different?

Many people come to me after previous therapy felt too structured, too brief, or not emotionally attuned. In my practice, we slow down and explore what may have felt missing before. We work together to create a therapeutic space that feels supportive, relational, and responsive to your unique needs. Often, therapy "not working" in the past has more to do with fit than with you or the process.

What if it’s my first time in therapy? I’m nervous!

It’s completely normal to feel nervous before starting therapy. In our first sessions, we focus on helping you feel grounded, comfortable, and understood. You don’t need to prepare anything in advance or know exactly what to say—we will figure things out together at a pace that feels right for you.

Do I really need therapy? I can usually handle my problems.

You don’t need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. Many people seek therapy because they’re tired of repeating the same patterns, feeling stuck, or carrying emotional burdens alone. Therapy offers a supportive space where you don’t have to “handle everything yourself,” and where you can gain clarity, insight, and new strategies for navigating life more effectively.

Teletherapy & Confidentiality

Is therapy with an online therapist as effective as in-person therapy?

Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be just as effective as in-person sessions for many concerns, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and stress. It also offers greater flexibility, reduces commuting time, and makes therapy more accessible for people with busy schedules or limited mobility.

What about confidentiality and privacy during online therapy?

Your privacy is a priority. I use a secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform to protect your confidentiality. As with in-person therapy, everything you share remains confidential. To ensure privacy on your side, please join sessions from a quiet, private space whenever possible.

What if I have more questions that aren’t listed here?

If you have more questions, feel free to reach out. I’m here to help.

How do I get started?

To get started, simply contact me to schedule a free consultation. I look forward to working with you!