What is therapy with Dr. Collins like?

Not all therapists are the same, just as not all circumstances, individuals, families, or couples are the same.  I ask a lot of questions; I want to know and understand you.  I meet you where you are, you don’t need to know what you need from me, we can figure it out together.  I believe in a collaborative process, let’s work together to affect the changes you are looking for.   I believe in the power of insight and understanding and the deeply healing experience of felt emotion, particularly connection and humor.  I prefer to work weekly to create continuity and momentum, but I am flexible, I respect that you might be busy, and therapy can be expensive! I do both short- and long-term work, we work together to figure out what is appropriate for you. 

Do you accept insurance? How does insurance work?

I am not an in-network provider for any insurance plans. 
However, many health insurances (most PPO’s) allow you to apply for reimbursement for services from an out-of-network provider. Please contact your insurance company to determine what your out of network benefits are and I will provide you with a statement of services to enable you to seek reimbursement.

Is Therapy Confidential?

The law protects the relationship between a client and a psychotherapist, and information cannot be disclosed without written permission. However, there are some circumstances that require exceptions to this rule, please note these below.

  
Suspected child abuse or dependent adult or elder abuse, for which I am required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person/s, I must notify the police and inform the intended victim.
If a client intends to harm himself or herself, I will make every effort to enlist their cooperation in ensuring their safety. If they do not cooperate, I will take further measures without their permission that are provided to me by law in order to ensure their safety.

Where is your office located?

I am currently providing Telehealth services and am located in Oakland, California.

How do I set up an appointment?

The first step is contacting me through my contact page or by sending me an email. Together we will select a day and time for an initial free 15 minute phone consultation where we will make sure we are a good fit for one another and discuss getting started.

What is your cancellation policy?

Your appointment time is reserved for you. Please notify me by phone at least 48 hours in advance if you must cancel. If you are unable to make your scheduled therapy appointment, and you have not notified me at least 48 hours in advance, you will be required to pay the full cost of the session.