FAQs

  • We are licensed to provide online therapy services to clients in California. 

    Allison meets with clients in her offices in Encinitas and Costa Mesa.

    • Initial assessment sessions to review intake forms, explore current concerns, answer questions, and gather relevant personal and family history

    • Collaborative development of treatment goals, using evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Bowen Family Systems Theory as appropriate

    • Consideration of whether coordination with additional providers (e.g., registered dietitian, psychiatrist, or primary care physician) may enhance care

    • Thoughtful integration of family sessions for teens, involving parents and/or siblings when clinically appropriate

    • Begin with weekly sessions, with flexibility to adjust frequency based on progress, goals, and individual needs

  • The first step is to either email us or submit your information on our Contact Us page and we will reach out to set up a 20 minute consultation phone call. During the free 20-minute consultation call, we’ll talk about your (or your teen’s) current concerns and answer any questions you may have about starting therapy with us. This conversation helps us both determine whether it feels like a good fit. If so, we’ll schedule a first session. If we feel your needs may be better supported by another therapist, we’ll offer a personalized referral to someone whose expertise may be a better match.

    If you decide to move forward with one of our therapists, we’ll send you intake paperwork through our secure online portal. We’ll review this together and address any questions you may have during your first session.

  • Our therapist team includes both queer clinicians and affirming allies. While we specialize in LGBTQ+ affirming care and eating disorder recovery, we are equally committed to supporting clients of all identities and with a wide range of concerns. You do not need to identify as LGBTQ+ or have a diagnosed eating disorder to work with us.

    Struggles with food and body image can show up in many forms, and therapy can be helpful even if you’re unsure whether your experience fits a specific diagnosis. In today’s culture, it’s common and understandable to experience challenges with food, body image, identity, relationships, or emotional well-being. We welcome anyone seeking support, and we’ll work collaboratively with you to explore your goals and help you feel more grounded, empowered, and supported.

Fees and Insurance

  • Yes! We are in network with most plans for United Healthcare and Aetna. 

    We are not currently in-network with any other insurance panels. However, many clients with PPO plans are able to receive partial reimbursement through their out-of-network benefits. If this applies to you, we can provide a superbill (a detailed receipt that includes service codes and licensing information) which you can submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement.

    Please note that it is your responsibility to contact your insurance provider to verify your out-of-network benefits and determine eligibility for reimbursement. While many plans offer some level of coverage, we cannot guarantee reimbursement for services.

    Here are some helpful questions to ask your insurance provider:

    • Does my plan include out-of-network coverage for mental health services?

    • What is my out-of-network deductible, and how much of it have I already met?

    • Once I meet my deductible, what percentage of the session cost will be reimbursed?

    • Is there a limit to the number of mental health sessions covered per year?

    • Is there an annual out-of-pocket maximum for out-of-network services?

    • What is my co-insurance rate for out-of-network mental health services?

    • Are there any specific codes or documentation required for telehealth sessions?

  • Individual sessions are currently $225 per 50-minute session. 

    Family and couples sessions are currently $250 per 60-minute session. 

    Payment is received through a secure online platform (SimplePractice), which accepts major credit/debit cards, including HSA and FSA cards.

    In accordance with the No Surprises Act, you have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate outlining the expected costs of your care. This applies to individuals who are uninsured or who choose not to use their insurance.

    Because each person’s needs are unique, it’s difficult to predict the exact number of therapy sessions required ahead of time. However, the Good Faith Estimate offers a general overview of anticipated costs based on the services discussed. The final cost of your care will vary depending on how many sessions you attend and the nature of the services you receive.

  • We reserve a portion of our caseload for clients (especially students or those facing financial hardship) who need a reduced fee. These sliding scale spots are offered at a discounted rate based on individual circumstances.

    While all reduced rate openings are currently filled, you're always welcome to inquire about availability.

  • Our cancellation and no-show policy is outlined in your onboarding paperwork. We require at least 24 hours' notice to cancel or reschedule an appointment. Late cancellations or missed sessions without notice will be charged the full session fee, except in cases of significant emergency.

    We appreciate your communication and ask that you notify us as early as possible if you need to make a change.