Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the office located?
I offer online services throughout Oregon and California.
I’m looking to offer in-person sessions starting January 2025. As soon as I get a building, I’ll post the address!
What are your office hours?
Monday: 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
Tuesday: 11:00 am – 3:00 pm (11-5 every other Tuesday)
Wednesday: 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Thursday: 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
Friday: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
How long is a typical session?
Conventional individual sessions last 50 minutes.
AstroPsychotherapy and couples sessions are 90 minutes.
How do I get started?
What is the hourly fee?
Oregon: Individual sessions are $150; couples sessions are $180.
California: Individual sessions are $180; couples sessions are $220.
How do I pay?
Do you accept insurance?
Yes, for Oregon clients only (OHP, Regence, Providence).
Please note that our office does not file insurance claims on your behalf.
How do I make an appointment?
Intake appointments can only be scheduled through me.
Ongoing appointments can be scheduled through my online portal or by emailing me directly.
What is your cancellation policy?
What is a free initial phone consultation?
Who is your perfect client?
My perfect client is anyone ready to do more than just talk about their trauma. They’re ready to learn the skills to empower themselves.
With whom do you work?
Are you a Christian counselor?
Are you LGBTQIA-friendly?
Do you work with people from diverse backgrounds, ethnicities, and religions?
As a multiracial woman with parents who practiced Southern Baptism and Buddhism, I have an eclectic understanding of the diverse identities we embody.
I heavily rely on astrology and other Eastern practices in my work, so my clients should be open to this approach.
Is there anyone you won’t see?
What can I expect in the first session?
We’ll conduct a comprehensive bio-psycho-social-spiritual assessment that evaluates multiple dimensions of your life, mental health, and well-being.
Biological
This dimension assesses physical health, medical history, genetic factors, and any physiological issues that might impact your mental health – e.g., brain chemistry, hormonal imbalances, sleep patterns, nutrition, and medication.
Psychological
This examines the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral aspects of your life: your thoughts, feelings, coping mechanisms, trauma history, mental health disorders, self-esteem, and thinking patterns (e.g., negative thinking or cognitive distortions).
Social
We assess your social environment and relationships, considering family dynamics, social support, community involvement, work or school situations, cultural influences, and interpersonal relationships, all of which contribute to your mental health.
Spiritual
This component explores your sense of meaning, purpose, values, and belief systems, including religious or spiritual practices that may be a source of strength or a source of distress. For some, spirituality can be a major aspect of resilience; for others, it may be an area where they struggle.
What is therapy like with you?
Therapy with me is an experience like no other (at least, that’s what many of my clients have shared). Clients often say that, although I have a clinical lens, they feel like they’re sitting with a close friend – not someone judging their experience.
First, we will establish a solid self-care plan to ensure your basic needs are met. Then, we explore your values and create a life vision outside of trauma. Once your values are clear, we start discussing tangible steps to curate the life you want.
How do you work with clients?
Unlike most therapists, I understand trauma doesn’t show up in the therapy room.
That’s why I offer a texting line during business hours for short interactions that involve regulation skills or challenging negative thoughts.
How long will I be in therapy?
Does anyone cry in front of you?
Do I have to tell you everything?
Who benefits from therapy?
Anyone willing to take steps toward growth.
Therapists provide a safe, nonjudgmental space that facilitates deeper healing. That includes identifying blind spots and holding you accountable for your growth.
Expect to address relationship dynamics, explore existential or spiritual concerns, and promote self-compassion.
What is EMDR?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychotherapy technique used to help individuals process and heal from traumatic experiences and distressing memories.
It uses bilateral stimulation in a structured eight-phase protocol to reprocess traumatic memories so you’re less sensitive and reactive to them.
What are the risks and benefits of doing therapy?
Change is inevitable, but it can be uncomfortable at times. Resolving unpleasant events and making changes in relationship patterns may arouse unexpected emotional reactions.
We will work collaboratively to achieve your desired outcomes.
What kind of groups do you have in your practice?
What else can I try to help me help myself?
“Somatics” is the therapeutic approach focusing on the connection between the mind and body. It emphasizes how our physical body holds onto emotional, psychological, and traumatic experiences.
It’s based on the idea that trauma, stress, and emotions are not just mental but also stored in the body, influencing how we feel, move, and relate to the world. Somatic therapies help you become more aware of these physical sensations and use that awareness to promote healing and greater embodiment.
How do I know if you are the right therapist for me?
What is coaching?
Coaching is a goal-oriented, collaborative process that helps you identify your personal, professional, or spiritual goals and develop strategies to achieve them.
Unlike therapy, which often focuses on healing past wounds or processing emotions, coaching is typically future-focused, emphasizing growth, action, and accountability.