FAQ

Where is your office located?

My office is located in San Diego, in the heart of Mission Valley. It is conveniently located off Interstate 8, with easy access from Interstate 15.

Here is the address:

2851 Camino Del Rio South, #300
San Diego, CA 92108

Is there parking available?
The location has ample free parking located in the front of the building. You can park in any unmarked stalls.
What are your office hours?
My office is open Monday through Thursday from 10 am –7 pm and Fridays from 8 am – 4 pm.
How long are your sessions?
Typically, sessions are 50 minutes. 90-minute sessions are available upon request.
How much do you charge?
Cost per session is $150. There is an additional charge for 90-minute sessions.
How do I pay?
Payments can be made with cash, check or credit card payments. For your convenience, I also offer autopay through the SimplePractice client portal.
How do I set up an initial appointment?

The easiest way to set up an initial appointment is to give me a call at (619) 352-0486.

After an initial consultation, if you feel that I’m a good fit for you, I will schedule your first appointment.

What is your cancellation policy?

I request that all cancellations occur up to 24 hours in advance.

If you are unable to cancel within 24 hours, you will be charged for the cost of the session.

Do you work with children and adolescents?

Yes, I work with children and adolescents that are experiencing behavioral and emotional issues.

I also help parents develop skills for working with their child’s difficult behaviors.

Do you work with men and women?
Yes. I work with individuals who are experiencing depression, anxiety, and the impact of a traumatic experience (PTSD).
Do you work with couples?
Yes. I specialize in helping couples reconnect after frequent conflicts have caused disconnection and dissatisfaction in the relationship.
What modalities do you use?

I use a faith-based and strength-based approach with an attachment-centered focus. This means that the session is tailored to meet your individual needs. You and I will work together to discover what would work best for you.

I have training in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Both of these treatment modalities are known to help individuals who have experienced a traumatic event or who are currently struggling with anxiety and depression.

I also utilize mindfulness techniques, solution-focused therapy, and trust-based relational interventions (TRBI) to work with children and adolescents. For couples, I use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help couples regain connection and reduce conflict.

What is your professional training and experience?

I have extensive experience working with adults and children in various settings.

I graduated from National University with a master’s degree in counseling psychology. Prior to graduating from National University, I worked as an elementary school teacher and an international speaker.

I am a certified EMDR practitioner, have training in CBT, trauma-focused CBT, solution-focused therapy, and TBRI.

My passion is to continuously add the newest and most relevant teachings on the treatment of children, adolescents, and adults to better serve your needs.

I noticed that you are a Christian. If I’m not a Christian, can I still see you as a client?
You do not need to be a Christian to see me. The work we do is tailored to your needs.
If I am a Christian, will you brow beat me with the Bible?
The Bible and scriptures are brought into the session as needed in a loving and compassionate way based on your requests and needs. It will not be used as a weapon to make you feel shame, failure, or guilt.
I’m angry with God. If He loves me why is this happening to me?

It’s ok to be angry with God. These and many other questions are normal when you’re experiencing difficult times.

You are free to bring all your spiritual questions into the therapy session, so we can explore them together. My role is to help you discover your relationship with God at a pace and level that is comfortable for you.

Do you accept insurance?
I do not accept insurance. However, If your insurance pays for out-of-network providers, I am able to provide you with an invoice. Please check with your provider regarding out-of-network reimbursement.
Will You help me file my Insurance?
I will file all Tricare insurance claims. For all other insurance providers, it will be your responsibility to file the invoices for reimbursement.
What is therapy like with you?
Therapy with me is like an adventure. We will laugh together, cry together, explore together, and experience the journey toward growth together.
Do I have to tell you everything?
Therapy can be scary. It’s not easy to share the details of your life with a total stranger. I understand. It may take time for you trust me, to feel free to share the parts of your life that you have not shared with anyone. As you become more comfortable, you can begin to share those parts. As you do, you will heal from your past and experience freedom in your present.
How do I know if you’re the right therapist for me?
Give me a call. In our first phone consultation, we will discuss your needs and how I can help you reach your goal. You are always welcome to ask me any questions you need, to determine if I am the right fit.
After my first appointment, how do I schedule future appointments with you?

For your initial appointment, you will need to call for your free consultation. After the initial appointment, you will have access to the client portal, which will allow you to schedule appointments in advance.

No need to call, just go on the portal, request an appointment, and wait for the email letting you know that your appointment has been approved.

What do you enjoy about being a therapist?
I enjoy watching people grow. Seeing my clients start to discover hope and joy, grow more confident, and smile a lot more is the most exciting part of the work I do.
Do I have to lie on the couch?
No. You’re welcome to sit up or lie down. Take your shoes off or leave them on. The time in my office is your time, so get comfortable and enjoy the journey.
Is your furniture comfortable?
My furniture has been described by my clients as “so comfortable it makes me sleepy.”
Should I wear waterproof mascara?
There will be times when you cry in the session (or laugh so much you cry). If you’re worried about mascara running down your cheek when you leave, then a good waterproof mascara is worth the investment.
Cats or Dogs?

Dogs. Although I have cats and dogs in my house, I prefer dogs. They welcome you at the door, are always happy to see you, and enjoy a good long walk.

Cats on the other hand… well, they’re in a world of their own.