WHAT IS YOUR BACKGROUND?

My Masters degree in psychology is from the California Institute of Integral Studies, and I am licensed to practice in California as a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFC#35387). I have worked with clients in private practice and in agencies since 1992. My training has been diverse, integrating numerous points of view within the field of psychology. Besides many seminars on various approaches and methods, my more extensive training includes self psychology, object-relations and intersubjective models - all in the realm of contemporary psychodynamic theory. I also utilize cognitive-behavioral skills and mindfulness practices depending on the needs and interests of my clients. The longer that I practice as a therapist, the more confidence I have in relying on each client's intuitive guidance as to what will best serve him or her in our work together

WHAT WILL THERAPY COST?

My fee is midrange for the Bay Area and I reserve some lower fee slots which we can discuss if it is relevant to you. I will discuss and establish fee arrangements during our first phone conversation, before you make an appointment.

WILL MY INSURANCE PAY FOR MY SESSIONS?

Some plans will reimburse for my services, so you may want to check to see if you have coverage for individual psychotherapy with a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist of your choice. I am happy to prepare a monthly statement for you to submit to your insurance company. I belong to a few managed care panels, however, managed care is often restrictive and not compatible with people's real needs. Also, insurance usually requires sharing private information with several people, thus compromising your confidentiality. Feel free to discuss the pros and cons of using insurance with me if you are considering this choice.

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE?

It is not possible to answer this question accurately, since the length of therapy depends on your individual needs. If we are focusing on a very specific issue, it may be resolved in a few months. More deeply embedded patterns and problems tend to require more time.

HOW LONG ARE THE SESSIONS?

Sessions are 50 minutes long. At times, I schedule longer sessions for couples. We will schedule regular sessions once or twice a week, depending on your needs.

WHAT ABOUT MEDICATIONS?

Only psychiatrists and other MDs are licensed to prescribe medication. I do, however, maintain relationships with psychiatrists who are knowledgeable, ethical, and caring. If at any point you or I believe that medications might be helpful, I would recommend that you make an appointment with a psychiatrist for an evaluation. Exploring your beliefs, hopes and fears about psychotropic medications can be a very fruitful part of the therapy process. The final choice regarding taking them is always yours.

WHAT DOES MFT STAND FOR?

MFT stands for licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. MFTs are required to obtain a Master's level degree, complete 3000 hours of training, and pass rigorous testing prior to becoming licensed. They are qualified to conduct all types of counseling and psychotherapy.

HOW CAN I CHECK LICENSE STATUS?

To check the license status of any LMFT, you can go to http://www.bbs.ca.gov/, the website for the Board of Behavioral Sciences, a California consumer protection agency governing several types of licensed mental health professionals.