Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about starting therapy in La Jolla or San Diego? Below we've answered the most common questions about our therapists, services, specialties, insurance, and what to expect. If you don't see your question here, feel free to reach out — we're happy to help.
GETTING STARTED
How do I pick the right therapist?
Our therapists each bring a distinct style: structured, relational, and always client-centered. During your intake process, we'll help match you with the therapist who's the best fit for your needs, goals, and personality. You can also browse our team page to read about each therapist's background and specialties
What can I expect at my first therapy session?
Your first session is a chance for us to get to know you. We will talk about what brings you in, what you're hoping to work on, and what you'd like from therapy. We'll also answer any questions you have and discuss next steps together. There's no pressure to have everything figured out before you come in.
How often are therapy sessions?
Most clients begin with weekly 50-minute sessions. As you make progress, we can move to biweekly sessions or adjust the frequency to fit your needs and schedule.
How long will I need therapy?
Everyone's journey looks different. Some clients come for a few months to work on a specific goal, while others find ongoing therapy helpful for continued growth and support. We'll work with you to create a plan that fits your life.
OUR SERVICES & SPECIALTIES
What do your therapists specialize in?
Our therapists specialize in anxiety, couples therapy, relationship issues, life transitions, chronic health, cancer, grief, trauma, high-achiever stress, perfectionism, and support for military families and veterans. Each therapist has a distinct focus area. Visit our team page or specialties pages to learn more.
Do you offer couples therapy in San Diego?
Yes. We offer couples therapy at our La Jolla and Mission Valley offices, as well as via telehealth. Our therapists are trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and the Gottman Method, two of the most well-researched approaches for couples. We work with partners navigating conflict, communication breakdowns, disconnection, and major life changes.
Do you offer therapy for anxiety?
Yes. Anxiety is one of our primary areas of focus. Our therapists work with individuals experiencing generalized anxiety, social anxiety, perfectionism, high-achiever burnout, and OCD-related concerns. We use evidence-based approaches including CBT, ERP, and DBT tailored to each client.
Do you work with military families or veterans?
Yes. We have therapists with significant experience supporting Active Duty service members, veterans, and their families. We are in-network with Tricare and understand the unique challenges of military life, including PTSD, deployment stress, reintegration, and relational strain.
Do you provide therapy for high achievers or perfectionists?
Yes. We work with many clients who are high-performing professionals, executives, officers, and students managing the pressures that come with ambitious careers and high expectations. Our therapists understand how to help clients address anxiety, burnout, and identity challenges without sacrificing their drive.
Do you offer therapy for life transitions?
Yes. Whether you're navigating a career change, divorce, move, loss, or a shift in identity, our therapists are experienced in helping people move through transitions with clarity and support.
LOCATION & FORMAT
Where are your therapy offices located?
We have two office locations in San Diego County: La Jolla and Mission Valley. We also offer telehealth sessions for clients throughout California.
Do you offer virtual or online therapy?
Yes. We offer secure telehealth sessions for clients located anywhere in California. Telehealth is available for individuals and couples.
Do you see couples as well as individuals?
Yes. We work with both individuals and couples across all of our specialty areas.
INSURANCE & RATES
Do you accept insurance?
We’re in-network with United, Aetna, and Tricare. For other insurers, we’re considered “out-of-network.” This means you’ll pay our session fee up front, and we’ll provide you with a superbill (a detailed receipt) that you can submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement.
What does “out-of-network” mean?
It means our practice isn’t in your insurance company’s preferred network. You can still use your insurance benefits, but you pay our full session fee upfront and then submit for reimbursement directly from your insurer.
How does out-of-network insurance reimbursement work?
After each session, we provide you with a superbill (a detailed receipt that includes the diagnosis code and service information your insurer needs). You submit it to your insurance company, and depending on your out-of-network benefits, you may receive partial reimbursement.
Tips for calling your insurance company:
When you call to check your benefits, ask:
“Do I have out-of-network mental health coverage?”
“What’s my deductible for out-of-network therapy?”
“What percentage of out-of-network costs do you cover?”
“Are there session limits or pre-authorization requirements?”
Why choose an out-of-network therapist?
Choosing an out-of-network therapist gives you access to a provider based on fit, specialty, and approach — not just who's on your insurer's list. Many clients find that the right match makes a significant difference in outcomes, and that out-of-network benefits offset much of the cost.