Frequently Asked Questions

Fill out the contact form on this site, send me an email, or give me a call. I'll get back to you within one business day to set up a free 20-minute consultation.

We'll talk for about 20 minutes — you'll tell me what's going on, I'll explain how I work, and we'll both get a feel for whether we're a good fit. No pressure, no commitment.

It depends on my current caseload, but I do my best to get new clients in within 1-2 weeks of our consultation call.

Keep it simple and honest. Something like: 'You're going to talk to someone whose job is to help kids with big feelings. It's a safe place and you don't have to do anything you don't want to.' Avoid framing it as punishment or something being 'wrong' with them.

For younger kids, therapy looks a lot like play — because that's how kids process the world. We might use art, games, stories, sand trays, or imaginative play. It's structured and intentional, even when it looks like fun.

With teens, it's more conversational — real talk, not lecture. I meet them where they are, whether that's venting about school, working through identity questions, or learning to manage anxiety. I also use humor because teens can smell inauthenticity a mile away.

Totally normal, especially for teens. I don't force it. Most kids warm up faster than parents expect once they realize I'm not going to interrogate them or tell them what to do. I let them lead.

It varies. Some kids come for a few months to work through a specific issue. Others benefit from longer-term support. We'll check in regularly and you'll always know where things stand.

You'll see it — fewer meltdowns, better communication, more confidence, less avoidance. I also check in with parents regularly so we're all on the same page about progress and goals.

A PCA is a master's-level therapist working toward full licensure under the supervision of a licensed clinician. I'm supervised by Alphonso Nunez, LMFT, which means you get fresh, evidence-based training backed by an experienced safety net.

No. As a therapist, I don't prescribe medication. If I think medication might be helpful, I'll refer you to a psychiatrist or your pediatrician and we can coordinate care together.

I'm a private-pay practice, which means I don't bill insurance directly. This gives us more flexibility — no required diagnoses, no session limits, and no insurance company deciding when therapy ends.

A superbill is a detailed receipt I provide after each session. You can submit it to your insurance company for potential out-of-network reimbursement. Many families get a portion of the cost back this way.

Yes. I have a limited number of sliding scale spots available for families who need them. Just ask — there's no complicated application process.

I accept credit cards, debit cards, and HSA/FSA cards. Payment is collected at the time of each session.

Yes! I offer secure video sessions for anyone located in Oregon. It's a great option for busy families, kids who feel more comfortable at home, or anyone outside the Portland area.

I'm located in Portland, OR. My office is designed to be warm and comfortable — not the sterile clinical vibe you might be imagining. Exact address provided when you book.