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Frequently Asked Questions

It can be hard to know what to expect before starting therapy. I’ve answered some of the questions I hear most often below.

Let's Connect

I understand that seeking support can be a significant step, and I'm here to make the process as comfortable as possible. Please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or to schedule an appointment.

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Location

Del Mar, California

Fees & Services

Do you provide in-home or school-based therapy?

I offer concierge services for families who would benefit from more individualized work in the home or another agreed-upon setting. Depending on the family’s needs, this may include parent coaching, direct observation and interventions of routines or interactions, and child therapy. I provide a detailed written report summarizing the sessions and recommendations. My fees depend on the services, session length, and travel.

Do you take insurance?

I maintain in-network status with specific insurance providers, though this list is subject to change. It is recommended that you contact me to verify current insurance participation prior to your first appointment.

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If I am not an in-network provider for your plan, you may still be eligible to utilize out-of-network mental health benefits. In these instances, payment is required at the time of service. I can provide a superbill upon request, which you may submit to your insurance company for potential reimbursement.

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To determine your out-of-network benefits, I recommend that new clients call the number on the back of their insurance card and ask the following questions: ​

  • Does my plan include “out-of-network” coverage for mental health billing? 

  • What is the allowable amount for CPT code 90837?

  • What is my annual deductible for mental health benefits?

  • What is my coinsurance? (What percentage does the plan cover?)

  • Is there a limit on the number of sessions my plan will cover per year?

 

You can check your OON insurance benefits using this free online tool here: https://www.besttherapists.com/benefits-checker

​​What are your fees?

My standard fee is $250 for the initial intake and $200 for each subsequent 50–57-minute therapy session.

 

Fees for concierge services depend on the services, session length, and travel.

What is your ​Cancellation Policy?

I require at least 48 hours’ notice to cancel or reschedule an appointment. Appointments canceled or rescheduled with less than 48 hours’ notice will be charged the full session fee. If an urgent emergency arises, please contact me as soon as possible. I will make every effort to reschedule your appointment within the same business week when feasible. If we meet for the rescheduled appointment that week, the cancellation fee will be waived.

Good Faith Estimate (GFE)

You have the right to receive a GFE explaining how much your medical care will cost. Under the law, health care providers need to give patients who don’t have insurance or who are not using insurance an estimate of the bill for medical items and services. You have the right to receive a GFE for the total expected cost of any non-emergency items or services.

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​Make sure your health care provider gives you a GFE in writing generally within one business day for appointments scheduled 3–9 business days ahead, and within three business days for appointments scheduled farther ahead or estimates requested before scheduling. You can also ask your health care provider, and any other provider you choose for a GFE before you schedule an item or service. If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your GFE, you can dispute the bill.

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Make sure to save a copy or picture of your GFE. For questions or more information about your right to a GFE, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises or call me at 619-500-2106.

How does your initial consultation work?

During this 15-minute consultation, I’ll ask about your concerns, your strengths or your child’s strengths, relevant family history, and what you’ve already tried. From there, we discuss treatment recommendations and next steps.

The goal is to create a clear plan.

Evidence-based interventions for meaningful, lasting change. Start your change today.

Clients & Therapy

What types of clients do you work with?

Del Mar Psychology provides therapy and parent support for children, adolescents, and families. I specialize in helping families navigate ADHD, autism spectrum-related concerns, anxiety, emotional regulation challenges, behavioral difficulties, and school-related challenges.

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In addition, I work with adults experiencing depression, anxiety, work-related stress, life transitions, parenting stress, relationship challenges, ADHD-related difficulties, and other high-stress family situations.

What is PCIT?

PCIT stands for Parent-Child Interaction Therapy. It is a structured, evidence-based treatment that helps parents strengthen their relationship with their child while also improving behavior, listening, emotional regulation, and follow-through.​

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PCIT is especially helpful for children with frequent tantrums, defiance, aggression, and difficulty following directions.

How is PCIT different from regular therapy?

PCIT is more active and hands-on than traditional child therapy. Instead of just talking about what to do, parents are coached in real time as they interact with their child.

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You learn the skills while practicing them, which makes it easier to use them at home when things are actually happening.

Are you a Certified Autism Specialist?

Yes. I am a Certified Autism Specialist, which means I have additional training and expertise in supporting individuals diagnosed with autism and their families.

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My approach is practical, respectful, and individualized. The goal is not to change who a child is, but to better understand their needs, reduce stress, build skills, and support the child and family in ways that fit real life.

Do you help with co-parenting or high-conflict divorce?

Yes. I work with parents navigating co-parenting stress, separation, divorce, and high-conflict family dynamics.

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I work with parents to reduce conflict, improve communication when possible, create more predictable routines for children, and make child-centered decisions during a difficult transition.

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Therapy can also support children who are adjusting to changes between households, managing loyalty conflicts, or showing increased anxiety, sadness, anger, or behavioral changes related to family stress.

 

Important note: This is a therapy and support service, not a custody evaluation, forensic service, or legal recommendation.

What does an ADHD evaluation include?

An ADHD evaluation looks at your child’s developmental history, current difficulties, and functioning across settings. I use clinical interviews, standardized assessment measures, and information from parents, teachers, and other relevant professionals. I also consider whether anxiety, sleep difficulties, learning concerns, autism, or other factors may contribute to the concerns.

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Depending on your child’s needs, the evaluation may include direct observation of your child’s behavior and parent-child interactions, review of school records, and parent-provided videos. For families in the San Diego area, in-home or classroom observations may provide additional information about routines, interactions, and difficulties that may not be apparent during an appointment.

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We review the findings and discuss recommendations for treatment, parenting approaches, and school accommodations when appropriate. 

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Have questions about whether therapy is the right fit?

When you're ready to take the next step, contact Del Mar Psychology to schedule a consultation.

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