FAQ About Therapy
Do you accept my insurance?
I am not currently contracted with any insurance companies, due to limitations in their contracts, and an increasing trend of insurance companies to interfere negatively in treatment. Many patients prefer to keep their insurance companies out of treatment, as reimbursement is often inadequate, and some find the interference and resistance they encounter not worth the hassle. If you have out of network coverage (sometimes called a PPO) you may be able to get reimbursed for a portion of my fee through them.
Do you have customer reviews that I can read?
In order to preserve the confidentiality of my clients and the integrity of their treatments, I do not post customer reviews, nor do I encourage them to leave me online reviews. Many of my referrals come to me from colleagues who know my work.
What is psychodynamic therapy?
Psychodynamic therapy (also known as psychoanalytic therapy) is a type of therapy based on a school of thought that originated with Sigmund Freud, one that has expanded and evolved significantly and continues to evolve through research, publications, and conferences throughout the world. The basic premise of psychodynamic theory is that suffering occurs as a result of patterns in thinking, feeling, and relationships which are often beyond awareness, or unconscious. Psychodynamic therapy attempts to address these patterns through an understanding of the patient’s experience in therapy as an example of other relationships in their life. See the websites of the American Psychoanalytic Association and the International Psychoanalytic Association for more in-depth information about the constantly-evolving field of psychodynamic therapy.
What is your experience with ethnic and cultural minorities?
I have extensive experience with clients from ethnic minorities, particularly those of African American and Mexican American descent. I also have experience with those of Asian, Persian, and Central American descent.
How much experience do you have as a therapist?
I have been helping patients of all ages, from infants to the elderly, overcome their suffering since 1998. My understanding of development throughout the human lifespan that is one of my strengths as a clinician. For example, I believe understanding child development is essential in understanding adults. A knowledge of human development also helps me to understand how a child’s problems might look when they are an adult if they are not addressed when they are a child.
How long will it be before I feel better?
The answer depends on many factors. I will work to help you overcome your suffering in the fastest way possible, with an eye to preventing both relapse or future suffering. Some patients find that they feel better after therapy than they have ever felt before. This is due to the fact that many people carry a great deal of stress without realizing it, often for a good part of their lives. When this stress (a form of suffering) also lifts, it can feel like an entirely new way of being.
What if I need medication?
As we discuss the nature of your suffering, it sometimes becomes clear that a psychotropic medication might be helpful. If this is the case, we will discuss together the possibility of a referral to a psychiatrist who can prescribe medication if he or she feels it would be helpful. I do not recommend taking any psychotropic medication without also attending therapy sessions. Research has indicated that medication is most effective when used with therapy. It is often the case that medication masks underlying problems without addressing their cause, so that symptoms return if medication is stopped. When a patient participates in psychotherapy, in addition to taking medication to alleviate current symptoms, the underlying cause can often be addressed, so that symptoms do not return if the medication is stopped.
What is psychoanalytic therapy and how is it different from CBT?
Psychoanalytic therapy explores unconscious patterns that drive today’s anxiety, while CBT focuses on conscious thought-reframing. Many high-performers find depth work brings longer-term change after CBT skills plateau.
Can psychoanalytic work help high-functioning professionals with “imposter syndrome”?
Yes—by tracing the hidden beliefs beneath achievement pressure, clients often reduce imposter feelings and replace them with a steadier sense of competence and purpose.
How long do sessions last and how often will we meet?
Standard sessions are 50 minutes, at least once per week. Some clients who are ready for deeper work choose to go more than once weekly for better results; we decide together after the first few sessions.
Do you offer tele-health to clients outside San Rafael or Oakland?
Absolutely. I’m licensed in California and provide secure video sessions statewide, so you can talk from Palo Alto, Los Angeles, or wherever work takes you.
What if I’ve done short-term therapy before and still feel restless?
Many clients arrive after brief therapies. Psychoanalytic work looks at the why behind recurring patterns, so it can unlock progress when symptom-focused methods stall.
How private is psychoanalytic therapy for executives?
I comply with HIPAA, use encrypted video, and schedule to avoid waiting-room overlap. Your records are never shared without written consent.
Do you take insurance or provide superbills?
I’m a private-pay practice. If you have PPO out-of-network benefits, I give monthly superbills you can submit for partial reimbursement.
What are your fees?
2025 fee is $320 per 50-minute session. Sliding scale slots are limited and reserved for long-term clients with financial need.
How do we get started?
Book a free 15-minute consult through the “Schedule” button or call 510-495-5228. We’ll discuss goals, fit, and next steps—no pressure to commit.
What results can I realistically expect?
Many clients report better sleep, calmer decision-making, and clearer life direction within 8-12 weeks, with deeper insight accruing over longer work. Individual results vary.
How do you help high-achievers and creatives?
Content
What unique challenges do high-achievers and creatives bring to therapy?
Perfectionism, imposter feelings, and fear of “losing the edge.” We map how these unconscious pressures fuel anxiety or blocks, then test new ways to work and rest.
I’m successful yet creatively stuck—can psychoanalytic therapy unlock ideas?
Yes. By tracing hidden self-criticism and early narratives, many clients report renewed flow and fresh perspectives within weeks.
Do you address burnout in founders, designers, or physicians?
Absolutely. Sessions target both the nervous-system strain of long hours and the deeper identity questions that drive overwork.
Will therapy fit my unpredictable project schedule?
Treatment works best when consistent, but I work with you to give you the treatment you need. Telehealth sessions and the ability to reschedule with 24 hour notice are available.
Can we focus on perfectionism without losing my high standards?
We aim to keep your drive while addressing destructive aspects of your relationship with yourself, so high standards become motivating rather than exhausting.
