Fees & frequently asked questions

Yes. I am in network through Headway with Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross, Blue Shield of California, Carelon Behavioral Health, Cigna and Providence Health Plan. If you would like to use your benefits, mention it when you get in touch and I will send you the link to verify your coverage and copay before we begin. Couples therapy is often not covered by insurance, as it is not usually considered a medical necessity — I will always tell you clearly which applies to you.

Many PPO plans reimburse a portion of out-of-network therapy. I can provide a monthly superbill — an itemised receipt with the codes your insurer needs — which you submit to them for reimbursement. It is worth calling the number on the back of your card and asking about your out-of-network outpatient mental health benefit.

It depends on what you are working on. Some people come for a focused piece of work over three to six months. Others, particularly where trauma or long-standing patterns are involved, stay longer. We will talk openly about your goals early on, and revisit them as we go — you should always know why we are still meeting.

My private practice is currently telehealth only, by secure video, which allows me to see clients anywhere in California. Many people find it easier to speak honestly from their own space, and it removes the commute from an already full week.

Yes. I am bilingual and see clients in English or Farsi — and I am comfortable when a session moves between the two, as it often does. Some things can only be said in a first language.

Yes. What you tell me stays between us, with a small number of legally required exceptions — if there is a serious risk to your life or someone else’s, if a child, elder or dependent adult is being abused, or if a court orders disclosure. I will go through this with you in your first session so nothing is a surprise.

I ask for at least 24 hours’ notice to change or cancel a session. Sessions cancelled with less notice are charged in full, as the time is held for you. Life happens, and I use judgement in genuine emergencies.

You will have a sense of it fairly quickly, and so will I. Research consistently finds that the relationship between therapist and client predicts outcomes more than the method used, which is why I offer a free consultation before anyone commits. If I am not the right person for what you need, I will say so and help you find someone who is.