My Approach
Core to my work as a therapist is a belief in the human capacity for growth and change. Feeling stuck in destructive patterns or a painful history can be incredibly isolating. Therapy is a place where we can co-explore the parts in you that are suffering. Through attunement, compassion and non-judgmental curiosity we can work to help create internal shifts that can relieve suffering, improve resiliency, and lead to more ease, wellbeing, and meaning in your life and relationships.
I have experience working with clients from a variety of backgrounds. Though I am comfortable working with people who are experiencing a wide range of problems, I specialize in issues related to relationship difficulties, depression and anxiety, transition and loss, grief, processing neglect/trauma in the family of origin, and exploring what makes life meaningful for a particular person. I work with both individual adults and couples.
When in person sessions resume, Pia (pictured above), who is a certified therapy dog through Pet Partners, will join my practice. Clients have found her presence to be comforting.
I received my Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling and Behavioral Medicine from the Boston University School of Medicine and have completed my Level One Internal Family Systems Training, and I have a background in mindfulness training. I am licensed to provide therapy by the state of Massachusetts.
Currently all appointments are via Telehealth. Office visits (at 339 Broadway in Cambridge, MA) will resume when it is safe to do so.
Services and Fees
Consultation
Our first session together is always a consultation, where part of the job is for both of us to determine whether an ongoing treatment relationship makes sense. If mutually agreed upon, follow up sessions can be scheduled and the formal treatment relationship will commence.
Ongoing Sessions
I typically meet with clients, or couples, once a week. Sessions are 50 minutes. I schedule sessions on the same day and time every week.
Telehealth
I offer 50 minute video sessions when there are barriers to meeting in person. This modality is secure, HIPAA compliant and easy to use. You will need a phone, tablet or computer with microphone and camera functionality. You will also need a secure internet connection and a confidential setting.
Fees
My fee is $150 per session.
Insurance
I am an in-network provider for Blue Cross Blue Shield’s HMO and PPO plans. I am an out-of-network provider for many other insurances. Most preferred provider organization (PPO) health plans include coverage for mental health counseling and will reimburse a portion of the costs of therapy. Individual fees owed at each session (if you are using insurance to cover therapy costs) will vary based on your particular insurance plan. Please contact your insurance provider prior to our first session to confirm the particulars of your plan (see “Questions for Insurance Clients to ask” below).
Questions for BCBS Insurance Clients to ask:
Will I owe a copayment for sessions? If so, what is the co-pay amount?
Do I have a deductible amount I must meet before insurance benefits begin covering the cost of sessions? If so, what is the deductible amount?
Do I need a referral from my PCP in order to have therapy covered by BCBS Insurance?
Questions for non-BCBS, PPO Insurance Clients to ask:
Do I have out-of-network benefits for mental health coverage
Am I responsible for paying an annual deductible before starting to receive reimbursements for psychotherapy?
Do I need a referral from my PCP for therapy services to be covered by insurance?
Is pre-authorization required?
How many sessions per calendar year are covered?
How do I submit a request for reimbursement?
What is my copayment and/or coinsurance?
Do I have an out-of-network deductible or out-of-pocket maximum?
What is the typical wait time between submitting a claim and receiving the reimbursement check?
Q & A on Therapy
Q: This is my first time seeking therapy, what should I consider when choosing a therapist?
A: Consider consulting with a few therapist before choosing one to work with. After consulting with a few different therapist it should be easier to determine which one you felt most connection and safety with and whose style felt right for you. Therapist are used to this process of selection, so if you have a people pleasing part, know that this selection process is truly encouraged. Finding the right fit matters a great deal to the efficacy of therapy.
Q: If I am working with you as my therapist can I also participate in your other offerings (yoga classes, Women’s Circle, retreats)?
A: If I work with you as your therapist, I cannot also work with you as your yoga instructor or Women’s Circle or retreat facilitator. The code of ethics for mental health counselors forbids any “dual relationships” between client and therapist—meaning I can only work with you in one capacity—as your therapist. Part of what makes therapy effective and safe is this boundary around the therapeutic relationship.
Q: Tell me more about Pia (the therapy dog)?
A: Pia is a six year old, maltese-yorkie (hypo-allergenic), who became a therapy dog through Pet Partners in 2017. She’s volunteered in public libraries and been part of my therapy practice. Logistically, I cannot have Pia present for some sessions and absent for others, so comfort with a therapy dog is important when choosing to work with me. You will find many other options for therapist who don’t work with a therapy dog in the room if that is your preference.
Reach out
Please be in touch with questions or to schedule a consultation.