Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some FAQ’s that clients often make. I want to have these questions answered to assist your making an informed decision about engaging in services with me.

  • Who do you treat?
    Outpatient Services are offered to adults and teens (14+). You can participate in individual sessions in-person or online via teletherapy.
  • How does therapy work?
    Therapy ‘works’ when clients uncover strengths and learn new skills that will allow them to deal with the challenges that arise in life.  A successful therapy experience does not mean a client is ‘cured’, it means the person has the inner and outer resources to deal with the ups and downs of life.

    It is mostly a tool for you to better cope with problems. I like the sentiment that therapy doesn’t fix anybody.  Therapy doesn’t fix you because you were never broken.

  • What is the therapy process?

    At each session, we will analyze where you stand and the status of the issue that brought you in. Remember: therapy is an incremental process that happens with time and growth, and each therapy session serves as a step in your progress. During therapy, you can talk about anything that’s on your mind, and I will listen. You can speak openly and vulnerably about yourself; your conversations with your me are confidential.

    After you unpack your feelings, I might provide you with some insight in response or help you deconstruct and synthesize what you just shared. I also might give you a task (I love giving homework) or something to think about if I think it’s beneficial for your process.

    Overall, during therapy you will be able to unpack and disclose whatever is bothering you and receive constructive feedback to help you improve your mental health.

    Super important: I cannot make you do anything, nor do I want to.  It’s up to you to apply what you learn during sessions.

  • Do you take insurance?
    While I am not currently contracted with any specific insurance companies, I am a provider of mental health services through Concern-EAP and Spring Health.  Individuals with out-of-network benefits, or preferred provider plans, may be able to have a portion of their therapy costs covered by insurance. It is strongly recommended that families planning to request insurance reimbursement contact their provider to clearly understand their benefits prior to the initial session.  I can provide a monthly superbill (also known as a Statement for Insurance Reimbursement) for any services rendered. Clients are responsible for coordinating any reimbursement for services with their insurance carrier.
  • What days are you usually available?
    Convenient appointment times are available, usually Monday through Friday between 8AM-5PM.  Some evening appointments are available.  For more information contact me.
  • Do you offer in-person sessions?  Teletherapy?
    Yes! In-person are available at my Cupertino location (10036 Orange Avenue) on Mondays & Tuesdays .  Otherwise all sessions are conducted via teletherapy.
  • How long do I have to do therapy for?
    At the initial session, we will talk about goals and how you and I will know therapy has reached a logical conclusion.  We will continually check in on your goals and assess your progress throughout the process.  And of course, you may choose to discontinue therapy at any time.
  • Can I speak to Michael before committing to an appointment?
    Yes! Contact me to schedule a free 20 minute consultation via phone or video chat.