(310) 437-9734

FAQ

Do sessions take place all online or in an office?
In my practice, you have a choice!

My online sessions allow you to access them from the comfort of your own home. Make sure to be in a private space where you feel open to sharing and will not be interrupted. An Internet connection is key, so being close to a strong signal is ideal.

If you prefer in person, my office is located at:

4705 Laurel Canyone Blvd. Suite 306
Valley Village, CA 91607

Do I need to download an app to see you?
Not if you don’t want to. Simple Practice has an app, but you will receive a text and/or email about the appointment, and all you have to do is click on the link.
How long are the sessions?
Most sessions are 50-60 minutes. In the reprocessing phase of EMDR, sessions can be anywhere from 60-90 minutes to accommodate a full reprocessing session.
How long will this take?

Treatment is often six months to a year, depending on your needs and goals. You will be in charge of your treatment, so if you want more time to process things and make new goals, we will work together to find a treatment length that works for you.

Do you take insurance? Why or why not?
I do not take insurance. Insurance does not allow the flexibility to specialize the treatment approach to your needs. Insurance also requires a diagnosis, and that diagnosis can follow you. Having the freedom to choose your treatment allows you to be in control.
How do I set up an initial appointment?
Easy! Call (310) 437-9734 for a free initial consultation to ensure we’re a good match.
What is your cancellation policy?
My cancellation policy is to cancel or reschedule 24 hours before your scheduled session, or the full fee is charged.
What age range do you work with?
I work with teens and adults. The age range is 13-65.
Do you work with women? Men? Couples?
I work with women, men, and couples.
What do you do in sessions with clients?

Each session may look a little different. First, we will complete an assessment and treatment plan. Then, we will get to know each other and explore our likes and dislikes.

You will learn new information and skills to manage life stressors better. If you choose EMDR, you will receive an orientation about how it works to help reprocess stuck memories, allowing you to move forward.

We will also help improve well-being by working on good habits, communication, and boundaries.

Do your clients receive assignments to work on between sessions?
Yes! I firmly believe that treatment should continue even when you are not in session. For example, you can try new breathing techniques or butterfly hugs to widen your tolerance window and calm yourself between sessions.
What is your professional training and experience?

I earned my bachelor’s degree from UCLA with a dual major in history and psychology, where I volunteered with an early academic outreach program to help first-generation college students navigate the college system.

Later, I earned my master’s in social work from USC, trained in domestic violence, and practiced at a family services organization working with children, teens, and couples in Santa Monica.

I have over 15 years of experience working in the field, primarily with trauma survivors. My training and certifications include Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Seeking Safety, and Managing and Adapting Practices. I have also been trained in the Gottman Method, level 1 training for couples, and EMDR to work with trauma, anxiety, panic, and adjustments.

What else must a client know to make the most out of working with you?
Be curious, enjoy the process, and know your healing is possible. When we work together, I will help you keep track of your progress and see how far you’ve come and what you’ve accomplished.
Dogs or Cats?
Well, both, of course! Up until recently, we had a sweet cockapoo and a ginger kitty. Ollie, our dog, lived to 17 years old and was the best companion! Lava is still in her prime, and you may see her in our sessions if she chooses to stay in my office when I shut the door.
How do you feel about using substances to cope?
I have been sober from alcohol for the last six years using Mindfulness and a book called Sober Curious. I believe that using substances is a way to avoid and check out. If this is something you want to work on in tandem with therapy, we can do that to break free of unhelpful patterns and coping.
Will you judge me?
There is no judgment here because judging creates shame and guilt and keeps us trapped. You will always feel seen and heard by me in a nonjudgmental way, which will help you feel safe and connected.
Why do you do this work?

I do this work because I love it. It is a privilege and an honor to bear witness to someone’s pain and then their healing. I can hear things people have never shared and help them release themselves from this endless cycle. I have worked with individuals who have had nightmares for most of their lives and then report no nightmares for the first time.

Helping people find joy, healthy relationships, and self-love that radiates to others is such a gift.

How’s your self-care?

My self-care is robust. It helps me keep doing this fantastic work. I get massages, walk, eat chocolate, hang out with family and friends, and read any chance I can. When reading, I love staying on top of my field to provide the best care, but I also enjoy fantasy books to escape into other worlds where life is fantastical.