(949) 257-2229

Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to my FAQ page! Here, you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions about our therapy services. If you have any additional questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I would love to be of help!

Getting Started

Where are you located?
I provide online therapy services so that you can connect with us from the comfort of your home, office, or wherever you feel most at ease as long as it is confidential, private, uninterrupted, and in California. I also have a waitlist for in-person therapy in Orange County, California.
What are your hours?

I offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate your needs. Please reach out to discuss availability and find a time that works for you.

How long are your sessions?
Therapy sessions typically last 50 minutes, allowing ample time for meaningful discussion and exploration.
What is the cost of your services?
Please contact me directly to discuss current rates and any available payment options.
Do you accept insurance?

I do not accept insurance. However, I strive to make services as accessible as possible and offer sliding-scale options to accommodate various financial situations. Additionally, I provide superbills for out-of-network reimbursement. If you have out-of-network benefits, you can submit the superbills to your insurance carrier for potential reimbursement according to your plan’s coverage.

How do out-of-network insurance and superbills work?
If you have out-of-network insurance coverage, you may be eligible for reimbursement for therapy services. After each session, I will provide you with a superbill, which includes all the necessary information such as session dates, services provided, and payment details. You can then submit this superbill to your insurance company for reimbursement according to your plan’s out-of-network benefits. While coverage varies depending on your specific insurance plan, many clients find this option helpful in offsetting therapy costs.
What is Mentaya, and how can it help with reimbursement?

Mentaya is a platform that simplifies the reimbursement process for out-of-network therapy services. With Mentaya, you can easily submit your therapy superbill directly to your insurance company through the app. The platform streamlines the paperwork and communication involved in seeking reimbursement, saving you time and hassle. We encourage you to reach out to your insurance carrier or explore Mentaya’s services, as there is a high chance that your insurance does indeed cover out-of-network therapy. Taking proactive steps to inquire about your coverage can help you make the most of your insurance benefits and access the reimbursement you deserve.

What are the chances that I have out-of-network coverage and will get reimbursed?

There is a high likelihood that your insurance carrier offers out-of-network reimbursement for mental health services. Many insurance plans include provisions for out-of-network coverage, allowing you to seek therapy from providers outside their network and receive reimbursement for all or a portion of the cost.

I encourage you to explore this further through convenient channels such as contacting your insurance carrier directly or utilizing platforms like Mentaya. Mentaya offers an efficient way to verify your insurance benefits and determine your eligibility for out-of-network coverage. By leveraging these resources, you can gain clarity on the specifics of your coverage and the reimbursement process, ensuring that you make the most of your insurance benefits to access the care you need without financial barriers.

How do I set up an appointment?
Simply reach out via our contact page, email, or call. I’ll be happy to guide you through the process.
What is your cancellation policy?

I recognize that sometimes unforeseen circumstances arise. To honor your time and accommodate other clients, I kindly ask for at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment. This advanced notice allows me to adjust the schedule accordingly and offer the vacated appointment slot to another client who may be in need of support.

Appointments canceled within the 24-hour window may incur a charge. This policy ensures fairness to both clients and my practice, as it helps maintain an efficient schedule while respecting the time and commitment involved in providing personalized care. I strive to create a supportive environment where everyone’s needs are met, and your cooperation in adhering to our cancellation policy is greatly appreciated. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

Treatment-Related Questions

What age ranges do you work with?
I work with clients aged 18 and above, tailoring my approach to meet the unique needs of each individual.
Do you work with individuals, couples, and families?
  • I provide therapy services for individuals from diverse backgrounds, encompassing various sexual orientations, races, and socioeconomic statuses, and addressing a wide range of concerns and relationship dynamics.
  • As a licensed doctoral Marriage and Family Therapist, while my training and schooling have centered around individuals and couples and family therapy, I am currently focusing my work on individual therapy. However, I approach each individual’s journey with an understanding of how their experiences within marriage, family, environment, and interactions may have shaped their present circumstances.
What do you actually do in sessions with clients?
Our sessions focus on exploring thoughts, feelings, behaviors, patterns, and history to promote self-awareness and growth. I utilize talk therapy but also evidence-based tools that encourage deep-rooted therapeutic approaches that encourage change when the client is ready.
Do your clients receive assignments between sessions?
Depending on your preferences and treatment goals, I may recommend exercises or activities to support your progress between sessions. After all, therapy only works if the client practices what is discussed in session.
What techniques/modalities do you use?

I utilize a variety of evidence-based modalities, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems, psychodynamic, attachment theory, emotion focused individual therapy, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based approaches, and Solution-Focused Therapy.

EMDR: Unlock your inner resilience by tapping into the power of your brain’s natural healing mechanisms. Say goodbye to lingering trauma and distressing memories as we guide your mind toward healing through gentle eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation. Experience rapid relief as we reprocess old wounds and transform them into sources of strength and wisdom.

Attachment Theory: Rewire your relationships by exploring the roots of your attachment style – the blueprint for how you connect with others. Discover the keys to deep, meaningful connections as we delve into the dynamics of your early relationships and uncover patterns that may be holding you back. Embrace a newfound sense of security and confidence as we cultivate healthier attachment patterns, paving the way for more fulfilling relationships.

Internal Family Systems (IFS) Theory: Embark on a journey of self-discovery as we explore the diverse cast of characters within your psyche – your internal family. Break free from internal conflicts and self-sabotage as we nurture understanding and harmony among your inner parts. Unleash your full potential as we integrate fragmented aspects of yourself, empowering you to lead a more authentic and aligned life.

What's your professional training and experience?

I bring extensive training and experience in the field of mental health, constantly pursuing ongoing learning and professional development to better serve my clients. My educational background includes a Doctorate of Marital and Family Therapy from Loma Linda University, where my dissertation focused on Clinicians’ Recommendations for Treating Victims and Survivors of Narcissistic Abuse. Prior to that, I earned a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from Hope International University and a Bachelor of Science in Public Health Sciences from the University of California, Irvine, along with an Associate of Arts in Math and Sciences from Chaffey College.

Training

My commitment to professional growth extends beyond academia. I have immersed myself in additional courses and training to enhance my therapeutic skills, including:

  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
  • Attachment-Focused EMDR
  • Internal Family Systems
  • Emotion-Focused Therapy
  • Certificate in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
  • Trauma-Informed Therapy
  • Narcissistic Abuse Recovery
  • Self-Regulation Interventions
  • Trauma-Related Shame and Self-Loathing
  • Interpersonal Neurobiology and Traumatic Transference
  • Suicide and Self-Injury
  • Compassion Fatigue and Burnout

This diverse array of training equips me to provide comprehensive and effective therapy tailored to each client’s unique needs.

What else does a client need to know to make the most out of working with you?

Openness, honesty, and commitment are key ingredients for a successful therapeutic journey. I encourage you to be actively engaged in the process and openly communicate your needs and goals.

A Little More About Me

What's one of your favorite inspirational quotes?
One quote that continues to inspire me is from Sophia Bush: “You are allowed to be both a masterpiece and a work in progress, simultaneously.” This quote serves as a powerful reminder that our journey toward self-discovery and growth is a continuous process, where we can embrace both our strengths and our imperfections with grace and compassion.
What do you do for fun outside of therapy?

Outside of therapy, I find immense joy in exploring the world through travel and immersing myself in diverse cultures. Whether it’s discovering hidden gems in bustling cities or finding solace in the tranquility of nature, I cherish the opportunity to connect with others and gain profound insights into the human experience. Embracing new adventures and pushing past my comfort zone fuels my passion for growth and self-discovery. Each journey provides self-reflection, allowing me to uncover new layers of personal insight and resilience.

What's one imperfect perfection you embrace?

Ah, imperfections – the beautiful quirks that add depth to our humanity and help us all connect. One “imperfect perfection” I’ve grown fond of is the delicate balance between crafting the perfect routine and gracefully adapting to life’s unexpected twists. Inconsistency creeps in when it comes to setting routines. Despite my best efforts to stick to a plan, there are days when life’s spontaneity takes over, and my carefully constructed schedule goes out the window. It’s a gentle reminder that growth often comes from embracing the unexpected journey rather than clinging to rigid plans.

Moreover, I’ve learned to accept that my brain doesn’t always cooperate with sticking to routines, prompting me to embrace flexibility and listen to my body’s cues. Instead of giving up entirely, I’ve discovered the importance of finding new ways to stay engaged and motivated while still working toward my goals. Through these moments of adaptation, I’ve cultivated resilience, adaptability, and a deeper sense of self-compassion. As I guide my clients through their own paths of self-discovery, I share these lessons with empathy and authenticity, fostering a space where acceptance, growth, and endless possibilities thrive.

What's your go-to self-care activity?

My go-to self-care activity involves finding solace in nature. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll along an easy trail or simply basking in the serenity of the outdoors, connecting with the natural world rejuvenates my mind, body, and spirit. Additionally, I enjoy journaling, which allows me to reflect on my thoughts and emotions, fostering a deeper understanding of myself and promoting inner peace.

Do you have some favorite motivational books?


Absolutely! Two of my favorite books, “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho and “Man’s Search for Meaning” by Viktor Frankl, hold special places in my heart for their profound insights and timeless wisdom.

  • “The Alchemist” resonates with me for its powerful message about pursuing our dreams and listening to the whispers of our hearts. Through Santiago’s journey, we’re reminded of the importance of perseverance, courage, and faith in the face of uncertainty. It teaches us to trust in the universe as we strive to fulfill our personal legends. The concept of the Personal Legend in “The Alchemist” is captivating and resonates deeply with me. It tells that each of us has a unique purpose or destiny to fulfill in this world – a calling that beckons us to embark on a journey of self-discovery and actualization.
  • On the other hand, “Man’s Search for Meaning” is a deeply moving account of Viktor Frankl’s experiences in a Nazi concentration camp and his subsequent exploration of the human psyche. Frankl’s profound insights into finding purpose and meaning in the midst of suffering are both humbling and inspiring. His emphasis on the power of attitude and the freedom to choose our response to life’s circumstances serves as a beacon of hope and resilience.

Both books are reminders of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of seeking meaning and purpose in our lives. They inspire me to embrace life’s challenges with courage and to strive for personal growth and fulfillment in every aspect of my journey.