Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions people ask most before starting. If yours isn’t here, get in touch or call (323) 607-7329.
Getting started
How do I get started?
Book a free 20-minute video consultation through the contact form or call (323) 607-7329. We'll talk about what's going on and whether I'm the right fit. There's no pressure to book.
Who do you work with?
Couples, families and other relationships of two or more people (siblings, parents and adult children, bands, business and creative partners, polyamorous relationships), and individuals. I work with adults only, 18 and older.
Is couples therapy right for us?
It can help whether you're in a crisis or simply want to strengthen your connection. Recurring conflict, emotional distance and communication struggles are all good reasons to start.
What if only one of us wants to come?
That's common, and it can still help. The partner who comes can build clarity and new ways of responding, which often shifts the relationship before the other person is ready to join.
What happens in the first session?
I'll want to hear how each of you sees the relationship: what brought you in, what's working, what keeps going wrong, and what you hope changes. We'll start to map the pattern you keep landing in. I won't take sides.
How often do we meet?
Usually weekly at first to build momentum, then every other week, then monthly as things change.
Do you see individuals?
Yes. Most of my work is with couples and families, and I also see individuals. If an individual client later wants joint sessions with a partner, I refer the couples work to a colleague so each of you has the right support.
Fees and insurance
How much do sessions cost?
Couples, families and other relationships: $250 for a 60-minute session and $325 for a 90-minute session. Fees are per session, not per person. Individuals: $175 for 50 minutes and $225 for 80 minutes.
How much are Couples Intensives?
$600 for a 3-hour intensive and $1,100 for a 6-hour intensive. One- and two-day retreats are tailored to each couple, so the price varies.
What does discernment counseling cost?
The first session is 2 hours and costs $450. Follow-up sessions are 90 minutes and cost $325.
Do you take insurance?
I don't bill insurance directly. For regular sessions I can give you a superbill to submit to your insurer for possible out-of-network reimbursement. Superbills aren't available for intensives or retreats.
Is the consultation free?
Yes. The first 20-minute video call is free.
Couples therapy
Will you take sides?
No. My job is to understand the pattern between you, not to decide who is right. Both of you should leave sessions feeling heard.
Do you keep secrets one partner tells you?
No. I don't keep individual secrets from the couples work, so neither of you is left out of what matters.
What approaches do you use?
I draw on PACT, Imago, attachment-based work, interpersonal neurobiology, the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy, and use what fits the two of you.
Do you work with LGBTQ+ couples and non-monogamous relationships?
Yes. My practice is LGBTQIA+ affirming, sex-positive and ENM and polyamory affirming. See LGBTQ+ couples therapy and non-monogamy and polyamory.
Do you work with couples who aren't married or don't live together?
Yes. Couples therapy is for any partners in a romantic relationship, at any stage and in any living situation.
What if we're thinking about separating?
You're still welcome. Discernment counseling can help you decide, and conscious uncoupling can help you separate with less harm.
Family and relationship therapy
Can more than two people come to sessions?
Yes. Family and relationship therapy can include two or more people: a parent and adult children, several siblings, a band or business partners, or a polyamorous relationship.
Do you see children or teenagers?
No. I work with adults only. For families with children or teens, I suggest a child or adolescent family therapist, and I can support a parent individually.
Do you meet with each person separately?
Sometimes. I may hold an individual session with each person before joint sessions, so everyone can speak freely about what they hope for.
Will you contact a family member for me?
No. I never contact a family member without your consent.
Location, online sessions and privacy
Where is your office?
5317 N Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90042, in Highland Park.
Do you offer online sessions?
Yes, online anywhere in California, by secure video. Some clients mix online and in-person sessions.
Is what we share confidential?
Yes, with the standard legal and ethical exceptions that apply to all therapy, such as safety concerns. See my Notice of Privacy Practices.
What if it's an emergency?
This practice can't provide emergency support. If you're in crisis, call or text 988. If you're in immediate danger, call 911.
