Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)?

In California, both Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs) and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs) are mental health professionals licensed by the Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS). While both are qualified to diagnose and treat a wide range of mental health concerns, there are some distinctions in their training and clinical emphasis. LPCCs focus more on the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of emotional, mental, and behavioral issues—primarily from an individual perspective. Their training often includes a strong foundation in career counseling and development as well. LMFTs, on the other hand, are specifically trained to address relational and emotional challenges within the context of couples and family systems. Their work tends to focus more on the dynamics between individuals rather than on individual pathology alone. That said, both LPCCs and LMFTs are fully capable—through their respective training and experience—of meeting a wide range of therapeutic needs. The choice between the two often comes down to personal preference or the specific nature of the concerns being addressed.

Do you see clients in person?

We primarily offer in-person sessions, as we believe face-to-face interaction is the most effective way to build a strong therapeutic relationship. That said, if you’re feeling under the weather or traveling, we're happy to offer a virtual session as needed.

How do I schedule an appointment?

You can reach out by phone at (805) 556-8813 or email us. We do our best to respond within 24 hours.

Will I have to talk about things that make me uncomfortable?

Yes—and no. Therapy often involves exploring areas that feel challenging, as that’s where growth tends to happen. However, you’re always in control of your process. You'll be encouraged to gently step outside your comfort zone, but never forced to go somewhere you’re not ready to go.

How long are sessions?

Individual therapy sessions are 50 minutes long. A timer is set at the start so you can stay focused on the conversation without needing to worry about the time.

What is your cancellation policy?

We kindly ask for at least 48 hours notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment.
Cancellations with less than 48 hours notice may be subject to the full session fee, as that time has been reserved just for you.

Important Insurance Information

Insurance & Billing

We are not contracted with any insurance companies, which means we are considered an out-of-network provider. If you’d like to use your insurance benefits, we recommend contacting your provider directly to see what your plan allows for out-of-network mental health services.

Here are some helpful questions to ask your insurance company:

Do I have out-of-network coverage for mental health services?
What is my out-of-network deductible, and has any of it been met?
Do I need prior authorization before starting therapy?
Is there a session limit per year?
How much does my plan reimburse for each out-of-network therapy session?

Although we don’t bill insurance companies directly, we can provide you with a monthly superbill—a detailed receipt you can submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement.

Why We Don’t Work Directly with Insurance

We completely understand that it can be challenging to find care that fits both your needs and your budget. Choosing not to work directly with insurance was a thoughtful decision based on providing the best care possible. Here's why:

Privacy Matters: Insurance companies require access to sensitive details, including your diagnosis and treatment notes, in order to approve services. This can compromise your confidentiality and may influence your future healthcare options.

Diagnosis Requirements: To qualify for reimbursement, insurers often require a formal mental health diagnosis. Yet many people seek therapy for personal development, life transitions, or relationship challenges—things that don't necessarily fit into a clinical diagnosis. Being forced to assign one can be misleading and may follow you in your medical record.

Treatment Restrictions: Insurance can place limits on how often you can be seen, how long sessions can last, or what types of therapy are approved. Sometimes, even who can attend a session is dictated by the insurance—not by you or your therapist. This can interfere with truly individualized care.