Is Nico the right therapist for me?

My ideal client is willing to take the time to form a strong, trusting therapeutic relationship. It’s important to meet you where you are at - that means we will figure out what will work best for you therapeutically.

I believe the therapeutic relationship (i.e., you and me coming together each week) is the foundation for healing and growth when it comes to therapy. I approach therapy from an authentic, genuine, warm stance.

I believe exploring emotions and gaining a better understanding of them can be hugely impactful. I am humanistic, systems-oriented, and psychodynamic in my approach. What this all means is that we are going to approach therapy together, figure out how the system (usually people, family, friends, partners, etc.) we are a part of is impacting us, and how the way we grew up (our family, the circumstances, our experiences) shaped the way we adapt to the world.

Still not sure what all of this means? Reach out and we can talk more to see if my approach fits for you.

Where do I have to live in order to work with Nico?

I am currently licensed in both California and Oregon. This means that you can live in either state and we can work together.

Why do people go to therapy?

There are many reasons people decide to go to therapy. Some are looking to alleviate suffering and some are looking to grow. Some want a better understanding of who they are at their core. They want to live a fully authentic and meaningful life.

Some people are looking to better understand and manage specific mental health needs, including anxiety, stress, depression, burnout, grief, loss, life transitions, work-life balance, relationship problems - the list of reasons individuals seek therapy is endless.

Ultimately, there is no “right” reason to seek therapy. If you’re considering engaging in therapy, that’s reason enough to reach out.

What is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist? Do I have to be married or bring my family in with me?

A Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist means I approach therapy with a social and relational lens. What this means is that we do not exist in a vacuum. Where we come from, who we interact with daily, the relationships that we are part of - these impact our behaviors, and how we feel about things. While those people may not be in therapy with us, it may be useful for you and me to incorporate aspects of the systems we are part of into our work.

You do not have to be married or in a relationship to seek therapy from a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. You do not have to bring anyone to sessions with you in order to meet with me.

What if I need to cancel or reschedule a session?

Please let me know via email, call, or text at least 24 hours in advance of needing to cancel or reschedule; otherwise, you will be billed the full session fee. If we can find another time to meet that works for both of us during that same week, no cancellation fee will be incurred.

What should I expect during my first session?

After we’ve had a brief phone consultation to ensure we will work well together, you’ll receive all necessary paperwork and policies via a secure email link. I will ask you to complete these forms before our first teletherapy session. The first few sessions will primarily focus on getting to know one another, learning more about what brings you in, and developing goals for our work together.

How does confidentiality work?

All of our conversations are protected under state and federal privacy regulations. However, there are instances required by law in which I may need to break confidentiality and disclose information necessary to a third party. These situations include imminent danger to yourself or others, as well as child, elder, or dependent adult abuse, court orders, and coordinating with other healthcare providers. We will go over all of these limits to confidentiality during your first visit, and if one of these situations arises, we will discuss how to proceed together.

Can I use my insurance?

While I am not currently in-network with any insurance providers, I will gladly provide you with a superbill upon request to submit to your insurance for any out-of-network costs that may be covered by your plan. If you have a PPO, you may be able to get up to 80% of each session reimbursed after you meet your deductible.

Can I use my FSA/HSA?

Flexible spending accounts (FSA) and health savings accounts (HSA) allow you to set aside pre-tax money for out of pocket health costs, which you can apply to your mental health care. Many companies have monthly stipends as part of employee wellbeing initiatives, and some have begun to provide Covid-19 related stipends that could likely be applied to your care.