Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about therapy, what to expect, and how to get started.
What should I expect in my first therapy session?
Your first session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other and understand your concerns. We'll discuss what brought you to therapy, your goals, and what you hope to achieve. This session helps us create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. It's normal to feel nervous—we strive to create a warm, welcoming environment.
How long does therapy typically take?
The duration of therapy varies depending on your individual needs and goals. Some clients see significant improvement in 8-12 sessions, while others benefit from longer-term support. We'll regularly assess your progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed. Our goal is to help you develop the skills and insights you need, not to keep you in therapy indefinitely.
Is what I share in therapy confidential?
Yes, confidentiality is a cornerstone of therapy. What you share stays between you and your therapist, with a few legal exceptions: if there's risk of harm to yourself or others, suspected child or elder abuse, or if records are subpoenaed by a court. We'll discuss these limits during your first session.
Do you offer telehealth/online therapy sessions?
Yes, we offer secure, HIPAA-compliant telehealth sessions for clients throughout California. Telehealth can be just as effective as in-person therapy and offers the convenience of attending sessions from home. Many clients appreciate the flexibility telehealth provides.
How do I know if therapy is right for me?
If you're experiencing emotional difficulties, relationship problems, or feeling stuck in life, therapy can help. You don't need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy—many people use it for personal growth and self-improvement. Our free 15-minute consultation can help you determine if therapy is a good fit for your needs.
What's the difference between an MFT, social worker, or other therapist?
Marriage Family Therapists and social workers have specialized training in treating individuals, couples, and families from a relational perspective. We're trained to understand how relationships and family dynamics impact mental health. MFTs and social workers complete a master's degree, 3,000+ hours of supervised experience, and pass state licensing exams on the path towards licensure.
How often will we meet?
Most clients begin with weekly sessions, which allows for consistent progress and support. As you improve, we may transition to bi-weekly or monthly sessions. The frequency depends on your needs, goals, and what we determine will be most effective for you.
What if I need to cancel or reschedule?
We understand that life happens. We ask for at least 24 hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule. This allows us to offer the time slot to another client who may need it. Appointments canceled with less than 24 hours' notice may be subject to a cancellation fee.
Do you prescribe medication?
No, as therapists we don't prescribe medication. However, if medication might be helpful for your situation, we can coordinate with your primary care physician or refer you to a psychiatrist. Many clients find that a combination of therapy and medication (when appropriate) is most effective.
How do I get started?
Getting started is easy. Simply schedule a free 15-minute consultation through our website or by calling our office. During this brief call, we'll discuss your concerns, answer any questions, and determine if we're a good fit to work together. If so, we'll schedule your first full session.
Still Have Questions?
We're happy to answer any additional questions you may have. Schedule a free consultation or contact us directly.