Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is psychodynamic therapy, and how is it different from other approaches?
Psychodynamic therapy looks beyond the immediate symptoms you're experiencing to explore the patterns, relationships, emotions, and assumptions that have shaped you over time.
We pay attention to both conscious and less conscious aspects of your experience, including patterns that may be difficult to see on your own.
The therapeutic relationship is also part of the work. How you experience me, what you expect from me, and what happens between us can sometimes illuminate patterns that are difficult to recognize elsewhere.
The goal isn't simply to manage a particular problem. It's to develop a deeper understanding of yourself that can create meaningful and lasting change.
2. Do I need to know what's wrong before starting therapy?
You don't need to arrive with a diagnosis, a clear explanation, or even a specific goal.
Sometimes people know exactly what they want help with. Other times they simply know that something isn't working and want help understanding why.
We can begin with whatever brings you to therapy.
3. What happens in the first session?
The first session is an opportunity for us to talk about what brings you to therapy, what you've been experiencing, and what you're hoping might change.
It's also an opportunity for you to get a sense of me and decide whether my approach feels like a good fit.
You don't have to make a commitment to ongoing therapy simply because we've had an initial conversation.
4. Do you accept insurance?
Yes. I accept PacificSource, Evernorth, Providence, Cigna, Health Net and Aetna.
Private pay is also available for those who prefer to use out-of-network benefits. Individual sessions are $110 and couples sessions are $150.
Sliding-scale options are available as well. Reach out and I'm happy to walk through your specific coverage and payment options.
5. How do virtual sessions work?
Sessions are 55 minutes, held weekly, and conducted entirely online through secure video.
6. What states are you licensed in?
I'm a licensed clinical social worker in the State of Oregon.
7. How long does therapy usually take?
There's no fixed timeline.
Psychodynamic work unfolds at a pace shaped by what emerges in therapy rather than a preset number of sessions.
Some people notice meaningful changes relatively quickly, while deeper changes in longstanding patterns often develop through sustained work over time.
We'll periodically step back and consider how the work is progressing and whether we're addressing what matters most to you.
Schedule a Consultation
Ready to Talk?
If you've been carrying a sense that something deeper is going on beneath your anxiety, relationships, or self-doubt, you're not wrong—and you don't have to keep carrying it alone.
Reaching out can feel like a big step, especially if you're used to managing things on your own.
I'd welcome the chance to talk with you, hear a little about what's bringing you to therapy, answer any questions you may have, and see whether we might be a good fit.
[Schedule a Consultation]
