Frequently Asked Questions

  • There are a variety of reasons why people seek out therapy. Sometimes people reach out to a therapist when they are experiencing a major crisis, a trauma, feelings of anxiety, sadness or grief.  They may also be feeling unsatisfied in their relationships or trapped by the high stress level of their lives.  The reality is, we all have different life triggers and unique experiences that motivate us to seek out support.  Some people also decide to enter therapy without a clear reason, but rather a desire to simply understand themselves better.

  • Research shows that the quality and fit of the relationship between you and a therapist is one of the primary predictors of client success. Please feel free to contact me for a complimentary 15-minute introductory call, and we can discuss your goals and if I am best suited to meet your needs.

  • Please contact me to schedule a 15 minute call. I will assess your needs and we can discuss if you would like to schedule a first-time session. Please feel free to email me directly at susan@susanmft.com or call (424)234-9114 and let me know the best way to contact you.

  • Please feel free to contact me directly to inquire about my rates.

  • Payment for services are due at the end of each session and you will receive an official receipt that you may retain for insurance and income tax purposes. Fees can be paid with cash, check or Venmo. 

  • When we book your session, I am reserving that time specifically for you. If you are unable to keep your appointment, a minimum of 24 hours notice is required for rescheduling or cancellation.  The full fee will be charged for missed sessions that are not canceled by notice given at least 24 hours in advance of your scheduled appointment time.  

    **Cancellations of appointments are best done through my email at: Susan@susanmft.com  I will always send you a response that I received your schedule change. 

  • My services may be covered in full or in part by your health insurance or employee benefit plan. However, you are responsible for covering the cost of each session, and then submitting all of your paperwork to your insurance company for reimbursement.

  • I am on the Westside of Los Angeles. I will provide my address and parking information (easy and free) during the phone consultation.

  • Yes! I offer teletherapy as an option to all of my clients who reside in California. Please make sure to schedule this in advance and ensure you have a reliable internet connection and a private, quiet space to talk and we can meet “virtually,” wherever you may be.

  • Evidence-based research studies indicate that there is an association between weekly psychotherapy sessions and positive outcomes for clients. This appears to be especially important in the first stage of therapy, when we are building rapport and beginning to get to the core of understanding you. However, I recognize we all live very busy lives and I understand that weekly in-person sessions are not possible for some clients. When life makes it impossible for us to work together at my office, or your needs lend themselves to conduct sessions via phone or video conferencing, we can adapt. We can continue our work together when you are traveling or on days when you cannot make it into my office.  I just require that you let me know in advance of your preference so I can plan accordingly.  This approach promotes continuity of our work and your progress.  All phone calls and emails are handled by myself personally.

    I limit the number of clients I take at any given time so I have the ability to pay full attention to each person.  I can be available for consultations in between sessions via phone or video conferencing as needed. My goal is to provide you with the highest level of care and results.