Frequently Asked Questions

Does coming to psychotherapy mean there is something wrong with me?

Absolutely not. In fact, your ability to take a step towards change is a strong indication of your desire and ability to heal. We all have challenges and discomfort in our lives. It is important for you to explore those things that are blocking you from living more fully and from reaching your life's potential.

What issues do you work with?

I work with people struggling with stress, depression, grief, relationship problems, sexual issues and sexual identity, lack of meaning, loss of self worth, developmental challenges, life stage challenges, and spiritual issues.

What kinds of people do you work with?

I have worked with couples, families, men, women, adolescents, and pre-adolescents. Working frequently with sexual identity issues, I am comfortable working with people who identify as LGBQT or as heterosexual.

How does psychotherapy work?

I believe we have learn to adapt to our life situation uniquely and with our tools. Part of the work in psychotherapy is expanding our tool set and learning new skills and becoming more flexible in dealing with life's many challenges. Most of us also want to feel more connected and integrated with life, "in the flow", so to speak. Psychotherapy can help you to connect more with you own flow state.

How do you work?

It is the relationship that we foster together that will provide the mechanism for growth and change. Through a gentle exploration of the patterns and beliefs that determine your relationship to life and to others, you will expand your ability to experience life and relationship and thereby live a more integrated and satisfying existance. Most importantly, you set the pace for your therapy.

What theoretical perspectives do you embrace?

My background is existential/contemplative (Bugental) informed by analytic relational perspectives (Mitchell). These perspectives both embrace presence, working with the here and now, and also allow us to explore those early relationship influences. Mindfulness is an important component of my practice. For more information on Mindfulness click here to read a brief article on Mindfulness in psychotherapy.

Do you specialize?

I have experience with a wide variety of psychological conditions and concerns. I do have additional expertise working with couples, men's issues and especially men's sexuality. Additionally I have specialized training and experience working with groups and facilitating group therapy.

How much does psychotherapy cost?

My standard fee for couples and individuals is $110 per session. I do offer a sliding scale fee depending upon your financial situation. Please talk to me at our first session about your financial situation and we will structure a fee that suits your needs and allows you to attend sessions on a regular basis. Group therapy fees are posted on the Group Therapy page.

How often should I attend?

Attending therapy once a week to start is probably the minimum. I also offer twice and three times weekly sessions with special rates if you would like to do more intensive work.

Do you accept insurance?

I direct-bill and accept co-pays for the following insurance programs: Blue Shield PPO, Lifesynch, ComPsych, PFMC/CFMC Networks, Behavioral Health Services. If you have insurance that I do not direct bill, I can provide you with an invoice so that you can receive a reimbursement from your insurer. Please check the availability and terms of your benefits prior to starting therapy.

Can I attend group therapy and individual therapy with you?

I do not accept clients in group and individual therapy at the same time. You can change from group to individual therapy or from individual to group if we determine together that it makes sense for you to do so.