What are you like as a therapist?

If I could describe my therapist self in three words, they would be curious, warm, and nonjudgmental.

In terms of my personality, I’m a gentle, but straightforward person who will happily guide and support you while offering feedback and challenge when appropriate. I always try to choose my words carefully and I try to be as understanding as humanly possible. The auntie energy is strong with me—I can’t help it.

I’m also pretty silly, and whenever appropriate, humor is a mainstay in the room with me.

What are your preferred modalities/methods?

I always start with a very client-centered, humanistic approach as I gauge what type of therapy you’re looking for. Depending on your personal goals, qualities, and requests, we may then weave in something like dialectical behavior therapy (if you love acronyms and coping mechanisms), EMDR (if you have specific trauma memories to work through), or narrative therapy (if you love writing and find healing in telling your story).

In terms of other modalities I like, I often find myself utilizing acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), solution-focused therapy, or internal family systems therapy.

I’m trained in several modalities, and since I’m an accountant, artist, and therapist, I have the ability to move between different parts of my brain to help you address issues. However, I should reiterate that I am more of a gentle, client-deferring therapist and as such, am probably not a good fit for someone who is looking for a more blunt, authoritative style.

How long is a session, and how often will we meet?

Sessions for individuals, couples, and polycules range from 45-53 minutes. Please note that I unfortunately do not offer longer sessions. Shorter sessions may be requested in advance, though are not usually recommended as a routine measure.

I strongly encourage us to meet weekly for the first month in order to solidify our working relationship. Thereafter, you may continue weekly or move to a different frequency.

Let’s talk payment. What are my options?

I accept credit card payments through the SimplePractice web portal. See my Services page for out-of-pocket service prices, including reduced rate prices.

Do you take insurance?

I am technically still contracted with United/Optum insurance, but am no longer actively taking insurance clients due to having had numerous issues that affect both my clients and myself. As such, I will refer future United clients to clinicians who are actively taking this insurance.

If it helps, I do offer a select number of reduced rate sessions, which I’ll always advertise whenever they become available.

Why don’t that many therapists take insurance these days?

Oh, boy. How much time do you have? It might just be best to read this article here.

I can’t pay out of pocket, even at the reduced rate. Is there any other way I can see you?

If you’re a sex worker with an online presence, you may be able to get up to 16 free/subsidized sessions with me through Pineapple Support, a nonprofit I work with (and love) that assists those in the SW community with therapy costs. Please click here to view my Pineapple Support profile and request me as a therapist.

I am also affiliated with the EAPs Spring Health and Modern Health, which provide free sessions to employees at select companies. If your company uses this service, you may also have access to a number of free sessions with me.

Do you have a physical office or are you remote only?

I am currently only seeing clients remotely.

Can I still see you even though I don't live nearby?

Per ethical and legal guidelines, I am permitted to see any clients that are physically present in the states of AZ, CA, and FL, whether you’re in Phoenix or Payson; San Diego or Shasta; Jacksonville or Jupiter.

The bummer is that I’m not able to see people, even AZ/CA/FL residents just traveling, when they are not physically present in those states. So please plan accordingly.