FAQs

I’ve compiled a list of some of the most frequently asked questions I’ve received over the course of my career, both from clients and from those interested in starting therapy. Questions are wonderful - anyone looking for a therapist has the right to ask as many questions as they need to feel comfortable choosing their provider! If you don’t see your question here, please reach out to schedule a free consult call so that we can speak further.

How can therapy help?

Therapy is a safe and inclusive space in which to find support in navigating life’s challenges. It’s an opportunity to work with someone who is trained in guiding you through any struggles or thoughts that feel overwhelming to unpack on your own. It’s a place to build confidence and coping skills. Therapy can help you better understand yourself, develop self-compassion to quiet the negative chatter our brains can churn out, and find ways of living that bring you relief and peace.

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What’s the process?

The first step is to find a therapist who meets your basic requirements, which can include things like their geographic location, specialty areas of practice, gender, or language(s) spoken. Psychology Today hosts one of the most comprehensive database of therapists in the US, but you can also try other online databases or search for “therapists near me.” The next step is to schedule a consult call, so that you can speak to your potential therapist about what you’re dealing with and how you’d like to use your time in therapy. In my consult calls, I also provide some more information about myself and how I practice to help make sure that I’m a good fit for the person seeking services. From there, if you decide to move forward, you’ll settle on a schedule and fill out intake paperwork, including a consent to receive therapy services. In my practice I typically see clients once a week, but I also offer biweekly sessions for those who need them.

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How does someone become a therapist?

There’s no one degree that leads to becoming a therapist, which can make things a bit confusing! These days, most therapists are Masters-level clinicians with one of a number of degrees, including a Masters in Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy, or Counseling. Some therapists have a PhD in Psychology or a PsyD (a doctorate of psychology), but more often people with these degrees end up in academia or in the private sector. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who prescribe psychotropics (medications specifically for mental health), though some also offer therapy.

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Where did you go to school?

I completed my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Anthropology at the University of Pittsburgh (class of 2006) and my Master’s degree in Social Work at the University of Southern California (class of 2011).

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What kind of clinical experience do you have?

As a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), I’ve worked with people who experience depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, personality disorders, and PTSD. I’ve worked with people who grew up in challenging family environments (including those where narcissistic abuse was present), who are paralyzed by shame, and who are burned out by toxic work environments. I have clinical experience in forensic and public mental health settings, in addition to seeing private clients.

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Why social work?

I began my post-collegiate career in research, intending to gain professional experience before completing a PhD in Clinical Psychology and building a career in academia while also seeing therapy clients. My research work brought me into contact with a group of social workers who were responsible for the majority of the care provided to patients at the psychiatric hospital my research studies recruited from. I was deeply impressed by the social workers’ compassionate and practical approach to care, the difference they made in their patients’ lives, and their professional collaboration and support for each other. Through them, I came to realize that the social work field was a better fit for my professional and ethical interests, my belief in the importance of social justice, and the quality of life I strove for. I haven’t looked back since!

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Are you currently accepting new clients?

Yes, I am! You’re welcome to contact me using the form on my homepage or the contact information at the bottom of this page to schedule a free 15 minute consultation.

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Do you offer telehealth?

I offer both in-person and telehealth appointments to suit your scheduling needs. I have office locations in West LA and Santa Monica, and I use the SimplePractice platform for telehealth.

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Do I have to live in Los Angeles to work with you?

Nope, you just need to live in California. Therapists are licensed by state, so I’m available to see anyone living from Crescent City to San Diego!