Question 1

Does online therapy actually work?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The research is clear: online therapy works just as well as in-person for anxiety, depression, and trauma. You get the same treatment from a licensed therapist, just without the commute.

Question 2

Is my information private and secure?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We use SimplePractice, which is HIPAA-compliant. Your information is encrypted to the same standards as any medical provider.

Question 3

What do I need for a session?

Accepted Answer

A stable internet connection and a private space where you're comfortable talking. Any device with a camera and microphone works: laptop, tablet, or phone.

Question 4

Do you accept insurance?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We accept Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Carelon Behavioral Health, CIGNA, and Quest Behavioral Health. If you have a different plan, we can provide a superbill for out-of-network reimbursement. We also welcome private-pay clients.

Question 5

How long does therapy take to work?

Accepted Answer

Most of our clients feel a real shift within 3 to 5 sessions. We use assessments at your first session and every 4 weeks, so you can see your progress on paper. You won't have to guess whether it's working.

Question 6

Can I switch therapists if the fit isn't right?

Accepted Answer

Of course. Just let us know and we'll set you up with our other therapist. No awkwardness, no questions asked.

Question 7

How much does online therapy cost in California?

Accepted Answer

If you're in-network with one of our accepted plans, you just pay your copay. For private-pay clients, individual sessions are $125 and couples sessions are $175. Every session is one hour. If your plan isn't in our network, we provide superbills for out-of-network reimbursement.

Question 8

What is CBT and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

CBT stands for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. It's a structured approach where we help you notice negative thought patterns and replace them with better ones. It's one of the most researched forms of therapy, and most courses run 12 to 20 sessions.

Question 9

How do I know if I need therapy?

Accepted Answer

If your thoughts, feelings, or behaviors are getting in the way of your daily life, relationships, or work, that's a good reason to talk to someone. You don't need a diagnosis or a crisis. A lot of our clients come in feeling stuck or just ready for something to change.

Question 10

Can online therapy help with OCD?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We use Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), which is the gold-standard treatment for OCD. Research shows video-based ERP works just as well as in-person. We treat clients throughout California over secure video.

Question 11

Do you offer couples therapy online?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Both partners join the same secure video session from wherever they are in California. It's $175 per one-hour session. We work on communication, conflict, and trust.

Question 12

What's the difference between a therapist and a psychiatrist?

Accepted Answer

A therapist (like us, LMFTs) does talk therapy. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can prescribe medication. Lots of people benefit from both. If you have a psychiatrist, we're happy to coordinate with them.

Heart 2 Heart Blog

Online depression therapy in California: what to expect

How to support a partner with depression

Behavioral activation: the first step out of depression

Signs of Depression vs Just Feeling Sad