Frequently Asked Questions

What is therapy?

Therapy is about examining our thoughts, feelings, and beliefs and seeing how they impact our decisions, actions and relationships. As we gain more awareness of our experience in the present, we allow ourselves the possibility of having more freedom and choices in our lives.

Why seek founder therapy?

Thriving founders exert their agency and vision onto the world, as they grow successful companies and foster fulfilled employees. This journey requires herculean effort and perseverance. I’ve witnessed first-hand that investing in personal development and mental health impacts peak performance and quality of life. Since a founder can’t thrive in isolation, building and maintaining productive and valuable relationships with oneself and others is vital to a founder's success and well-being.

How does it work?

In facing the light and the shadow in ourselves, with another as a guide and a witness, we can come to a greater awareness and acceptance of our authentic selves. From there, real growth can emerge. The relationship with your therapist is also a useful lens to examine attachment patterns and ways of being with your self and others, and can serve as fertile ground for discovery.

How long does it take?

The length of therapy depends on what you would like to get out of it. Some people are looking for solutions to problems and symptoms, and this can be a focused time-limited period. Others are looking for more self-understanding and growth. In this case we can meet as long as it continues to be useful and helpful to you. Therapy can be helpful in both cases, and we can discuss what's the best fit for you.

Will my privacy be respected?

Your sessions will be kept completely confidential, in accordance with state law and the Board of Behavioral Sciences code of ethics. Sharing your information with third parties would require your express written permission. The only exceptions to this rule according to California|New York|Florida law are, a) if a client tells me instances of suspected child or elder abuse/neglect, b) if a judge subpoenas a client's records in a court case, or c) if a client is in imminent danger of harming him/herself or others. In this last scenario, we would make every effort to engage the client's cooperation in keeping him/her safe. If we are unsuccessful, then we would have to breach confidentiality in order to ensure safety.

What can I expect at the first meeting?

We can talk about what's most pressing for you. We usually like to ask about the difficulty you're experiencing, how you've been coping so far, and any goals you may have. The therapeutic relationship is a highly personal one and as such, requires a good fit. We usually take the first few sessions to assess whether it makes sense for us to continue working together and invite our clients to do the same.

How is it different from talking to my friend or partner?

Therapists are taught to understand the complexity of human psychology, as well as its intersections with biology, culture, and environmental stressors, and may be able to offer up more nuanced perspectives. Most people find that talking with a trained professional allows them more freedom to explore a wider range of their experiences, without worries of confidentiality or interference.

Do we have to talk about the past?

Considering our past can give us an understanding of what ideas and beliefs we've formed that shape our everyday lives. However, there's no requirement to talk about anything you don't want to discuss. What you share is always your choice.

What are your rates? 

I offer an initial 15-minute phone consultation at no charge. Please inquire about my current rates. Payment via cash, check or credit card at the time of service is requested.

Do you take insurance?

I am not on any insurance panels but can provide you statements needed for reimbursement if your insurance provides coverage for out-of-network providers. Also, if you have a "flex spending plan" through your employer, you can apply pre-tax dollars towards therapy or claim the therapy costs as a tax deduction, if applicable.