FAQs Answered Here

"There is no stupid question.There is no stupid question.
There is no stupid question."-Dr. Jane

What are your qualifications?

I am a licensed (#34888), Marriage and Family Therapist, a Certified Master Results Life Coach and Hypnotist, and a Certified Psychoanalyst. Please see the Qualifications page for more complete details and a CV.

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How long are the sessions?

Our meetings are generally 45 minutes long. I say “generally”, because sometimes people like to schedule 2 sessions, back to back, so that they get a more intensive time when there are pressing issues. If you do want to schedule a double session, we have to work that out ahead of time, as both of our schedules permit.

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How often do I need to come?

My clients generally visit me once a week. Some prefer to come twice or three times a week when we are starting out, then they may taper off to once a week. This way, the counseling stays continuous, and you can get your results sooner.

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What happens in the sessions?

That depends on what each individual client wants and needs. Some people want advice and problem solving, others most want to explore their inner world deeply, and to come to understand and accept themselves and others more fully.

We work out together what issues the client wants to work on. We also work out the methods we will use.

Some people, for example, are comfortable with imaginative methods, such as drawing, guided imagery, and imaginary conversations with relatives. These people often benefit from journaling.

Other people might be horrified by those methods and need a practical list of steps. Some people want homework to help them feel as if they are moving forward. Others would feel pressured by homework. So, we address the learning style of each individual, and use what works best for them.

Some of the specific methods we might use include:
• Guided Discovery Dialogues (talk therapy)
• Art/Writing/Journaling
• Guided Imagery
• Goal Setting & Strategizing
• Voice Dialogue
• Video Taping
• Behavior Rehearsals

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What is your fee?

I charge $150 for each 45 minute session. I am often asked if there are two people, does it cost two times as much. The answer is, no, it’s the same fee, no matter how many people attend the session.

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What’s the difference between therapy vs. coaching?

The process for coaching is much different than that for therapy. It is much more directive. Definite Results are expected from you in preparation for each session. If you have contracted to do a certain task and have not achieved it, your session may be canceled, yet you are still charged for your session. This is for when you want to press yourself- hard- for results, rather than grow gently into change.

Some coaching modalities I am certified in and people find useful are:
• Master Results Coaching
• NLP
• Advanced Neurological Repatterning
• Guided Imagery
• Precision Goal Setting & Strategizing
• Hypnosis

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Do you take insurance?

If you have a PPO, the way it works is that you pay me, and I give you invoices which you submit to your insurance company which then reimburses you. You will usually be reimbursed with from 60-80% of your fees. Many people submit claims each 3 months, or each 6 months, while others submit claims every month. Let's discuss your options. You can pay me in cash, check or with your Master or Visa card, or through PayPal.

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What are the risks to working with you?

One risk is in accessing and exposing your emotions in sessions with me. If you have been avoiding facing how you really feel, this can sometimes lead to feeling worse initially, but have long lasting benefits. These unpleasant feelings are temporary, and, if discussed with me, will lead to greater long-term happiness.

Another risk is that you may change your opinion of yourself. You may find that your increased self understanding and esteem leads you to want a better job, more friends, and a more functional relationship.

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How do I pick the right therapist/coach/counselor for me?

This is a great question, because it’s really important to have the right “fit” with the person you choose. You will be opening yourself up and developing a relationship built on trust and confidentiality. Sometimes, like in life, relationships work because they “just fit” for you.

Remember, you are always in charge of your life (even if it doesn’t feel like it sometimes). And you can always leave if you are not satisfied.

If something between you and your therapist, counselor, or coach does not feel right, bring it up with them directly. Unlike friends and family, therapists are trained to listen with your best interests at heart-even if their feelings are hurt. If you are responded to defensively, instead of with interest and kindness, that is not a good sign. When it feels like your counselor is not interested in understanding you, maybe it’s time to look elsewhere.

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How do I get started?

If you are ready to get started, please call me at 310.838.6363 or email through the “Contact” page on this site. We will discuss your needs briefly to make sure I can expect to provide what you need. Then we can schedule our first appointment. I look forward to speaking with you.

We will have more face-to-face time available at our first meeting if you click the link below to access my Intake Form, fill it in and then either fax it to me at 310.838.6363 or bring it in for our first session.

Please feel free to ask me any questions or discuss any concerns you have at any time.

Intake Form

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