FAQ | Healing Practice — Therapy Questions Answered

Question 1

How do I know if therapy is right for me?

Accepted Answer

If you're asking this question, that's often a sign that something in your life is calling for attention. Therapy is for anyone who wants to understand themselves more deeply, work through something difficult, or simply grow. You don't need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy — many people come to do meaningful personal work even when life is going relatively well.

Question 2

What happens in the first session?

Accepted Answer

Our first session is an intake — a chance for me to learn about you, your history, and what brings you to therapy. I'll ask about your background, your current challenges, and what you're hoping to get from our work together. It's also a chance for you to ask me questions and get a feel for how I work. There's no pressure to share more than you're comfortable with.

Question 3

Do you offer a free consultation?

Accepted Answer

Yes. I offer a free 15-minute phone or video consultation before we begin. This is a chance for us to connect, for you to ask any questions you have, and for both of us to get a sense of whether we're a good fit. There's no obligation — it's simply a conversation.

Question 4

How do I know if you're the right therapist for me?

Accepted Answer

The therapeutic relationship is one of the most important factors in whether therapy works. I encourage you to trust your gut. During our consultation, notice how you feel — do you feel heard? Safe? Curious? If something doesn't feel right, it's completely okay to keep looking. Finding the right fit matters more than starting quickly.

Question 5

Do you accept insurance?

Accepted Answer

I am currently an out-of-network provider, which means I do not bill insurance directly. However, I can provide you with a monthly superbill (a detailed receipt) that you can submit to your insurance company for potential reimbursement, depending on your out-of-network benefits. I recommend calling your insurance provider to ask about your out-of-network mental health benefits before we begin.

Question 6

What are your fees?

Accepted Answer

My standard session fee is available upon request during our consultation. I believe in transparency around fees and am happy to discuss this directly. I hold a limited number of sliding-scale spots for clients who need reduced fees — please don't hesitate to ask if cost is a barrier.

Question 7

How long are sessions?

Accepted Answer

Standard individual and couples sessions are 50 minutes. In some cases, extended sessions of 75 or 90 minutes may be available and appropriate — we can discuss this if it feels relevant to your work.

Question 8

How often will we meet?

Accepted Answer

Most clients begin with weekly sessions, which allows us to build momentum and deepen the work. As you progress, we may shift to bi-weekly or monthly sessions. The frequency is always something we discuss and decide together based on your needs, goals, and life circumstances.

Question 9

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

I ask for at least 24 hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule a session. Late cancellations or no-shows within 24 hours are charged the full session fee, with the exception of genuine emergencies. I hold your appointment time specifically for you, so this policy helps ensure that time is used well.

Question 10

How does virtual therapy work?

Accepted Answer

We meet via a secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform. All you need is a private space, a reliable internet connection, and a device with a camera and microphone. I'll send you a link before each session. Many clients find that virtual therapy is just as effective as in-person — and often more convenient.

Question 11

Where are you licensed to practice?

Accepted Answer

I am licensed in California and can work with clients located anywhere in the state of California. If you're outside of California, I'm unfortunately unable to provide therapy services due to licensing requirements.

Question 12

Is virtual therapy as effective as in-person?

Accepted Answer

Research consistently shows that virtual therapy is as effective as in-person therapy for most concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. Many clients actually prefer it — there's no commute, you can be in your own comfortable space, and it often makes it easier to fit therapy into a busy life.

Question 13

What is hypnotherapy, exactly?

Accepted Answer

Hypnotherapy is a therapeutic technique that uses a relaxed, focused state of awareness — sometimes called a trance — to access the subconscious mind. In this state, you're more open to exploring patterns, beliefs, and experiences that may be difficult to reach through ordinary conversation. Contrary to popular myths, you remain fully aware and in control throughout the process.

Question 14

Will I lose control or be made to do things I don't want to do?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely not. Hypnotherapy is a collaborative process. You are always in control, always aware, and can end the session at any time. The 'hypnosis' of stage shows is entertainment — clinical hypnotherapy is a gentle, evidence-informed therapeutic tool. You cannot be made to do, say, or believe anything against your will.

Question 15

Does hypnotherapy work virtually?

Accepted Answer

Yes — hypnotherapy can be conducted effectively via video. Many clients find that being in their own home actually enhances the relaxation and receptivity that hypnotherapy relies on. I'll guide you through the process just as I would in person.

Question 16

Is hypnotherapy right for me?

Accepted Answer

Hypnotherapy can be a powerful tool for anxiety, trauma, limiting beliefs, habit change, and more. It's not a standalone treatment but a complement to our broader therapeutic work. During our initial sessions, I'll get to know you and your goals, and we'll discuss together whether and how to integrate hypnotherapy into our work.

Question 17

How long will therapy take?

Accepted Answer

This is one of the most common questions — and one of the hardest to answer. It depends on what you're working on, how deep you want to go, and how quickly you progress. Some people find meaningful relief in a few months; others do deeper work over a year or more. I don't believe in keeping people in therapy longer than they need, and I also don't believe in rushing a process that takes time. We'll check in regularly about your progress and goals.

Question 18

What if I don't know what to talk about?

Accepted Answer

That's completely okay — and more common than you might think. Part of my job is to help you find the thread. Sometimes the most important things are the ones we don't know how to put into words yet. We'll start wherever you are, and I'll help you navigate from there.

Question 19

What if therapy brings up difficult emotions?

Accepted Answer

It often does — and that's usually a sign that we're doing meaningful work. I'll always work at a pace that feels manageable for you, and I'll help you develop the tools to process difficult emotions safely. You won't be left alone with what comes up. Part of what makes therapy transformative is learning to be with difficult feelings rather than avoiding them.

Question 20

Do you work with medication?

Accepted Answer

I am a therapist, not a psychiatrist, so I don't prescribe medication. However, I work collaboratively with prescribers when appropriate and can provide referrals if medication feels like a helpful part of your care. Therapy and medication can be a powerful combination for many people.

Questions, Answered

Getting Started

Logistics & Fees

Virtual Therapy

Hypnotherapy

The Therapy Process

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