Most clients do not need a referral. Clients can usually start therapy directly, as Alma verifies your insurance eligibility before your first session. However, because every plan is different, I always recommend confirming with your insurance provider to be sure a referral isn’t required under your specific plan. Visit the following link to learn more about Alma’s Eligibility Checks: https://support.helloalma.com/hc/en-us/articles/14221965648027-How-Does-Alma-Conduct-Eligibility-Checks?utm_source=chatgpt.com

If you’re unsure whether you have out-of-network benefits, you can now check instantly using the Thrizer Benefits Checker Widget below the FAQs section. This tool estimates your coverage, deductible, coinsurance, and out-of-pocket costs before you reach out.

Using the Thrizer Widget is the fastest way to know your out-of-network costs before scheduling, so you can start therapy with confidence.

OPTION ONE: Check with the Thrizer Widget

• Use the widget below the FAQs section to see your out-of-network coverage and estimated costs for therapy sessions at my practice.

• You’ll get real-time personalized results for your insurance plan without having to call.

OPTION TWO: Call your insurance

• If you prefer, you can call the number on the back of your insurance card (Member Services) and ask:

  • Coverage: Do I have out-of-network benefits for therapy, including telehealth?

  • Reimbursement: How much will I be reimbursed for a 50-minute psychotherapy session (CPT 90834)? What is my out-of-network deductible?

  • Requirements: Do I need pre-authorization or a referral?

  • Limits: Are there session limits or telehealth requirements?

  • Claims: Can my therapist submit claims via Mentaya, or do I submit my own?

  • Costs: Are there co-pays or other fees for out-of-network therapy?

I currently accept Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, and Optum. For all other insurances, you may have out-of-network benefits, which means your insurance will reimburse a portion of the session cost.

I’ve partnered with Thrizer to make this automatic and easy:

• The Thrizer Widget calculates your out-of-network coverage and estimated session costs upfront.

• You typically only pay your co-insurance post-deductible, which can save you about 70% upfront versus paying the full session fee and waiting for reimbursement.

• During our intro call, I can review your results and answer any questions about your co-insurance or coverage.

If you’re unsure whether you have out-of-network benefits, you can now check instantly using the Thrizer Benefits Checker Widget below the FAQs section.

Yes! Clients can now choose whether to attend sessions in-person at my Pomona office, 4 minutes from downtown Claremont in Southern California, or virtually via a secure, HIPAA-compliant platform. In-person sessions allow for face-to-face connection, while virtual sessions offer flexibility to participate from the comfort of your own space anywhere in California. You can decide what works best for your schedule and needs.

My office for in-person sessions is located at 790 Indigo Court, Unit B, Pomona, CA 91767.

Your therapy services will be tailored to your needs. I meet with most clients on a weekly or biweekly basis, with a recommendation to start weekly for the first four weeks to establish a strong foundation. We'll discuss what session frequency works best for you and adjust as we go. I will ensure that session frequency aligns with your goals and evolving needs.

It’s entirely up to you and your healing journey. There’s no set timeline, and everyone’s path looks different. Some clients come to therapy with short-term goals and feel ready to move forward after just a few months. Others have longer-term goals or simply value having ongoing support, so they stay in therapy for a longer period. Whether you’re here to work through something specific or to have a safe, supportive space to process your thoughts and emotions, we’ll tailor the experience to fit your needs. It’s all about what feels right for you and your personal growth.

Not at this time. Therapists are only able to provide services in the states they are licensed in. Currently, I am only licensed in California. If you reside outside of California, I would be happy to provide you with referrals to other therapists in your state.