Frequently Asked Questions

Do you take my insurance?
I am considered an out-of-network provider. Please check with your insurance provider whether you have out-of-network benefits. Your insurance company will be able to inform you of whether and how much they will reimburse you. In most cases, your insurance card will say “PPO.”
Reimbursement rates vary by insurance plan and would require a diagnosis if you choose to utilize these benefits. I am not directly contracted with any insurance companies. Fees are due at the time of service to use your out-of-network benefits, and you will be given a superbill (itemized receipt) to submit to your insurance for reimbursement. You will be expected to pay the full rate out of pocket at the end of each session.
What does a session cost?
Individual sessions and assessments are $200 for a 50-minute session.
I offer limited, sliding-scale spots for individuals experiencing financial hardship and who are unable to use Superbills with their insurance. Ensuring transparency and fairness in billing practices is central to my approach, and I’m dedicated to making therapy as accessible as possible. Please feel free to contact me to discuss sliding-scale options that best align with your needs.
Payment options: We accept all major credit cards, including those with HSA and FSA benefits.
Why don’t you accept insurance?
I prioritize quality of care and confidentiality. Insurance companies require a formal diagnosis, which becomes part of your medical record. They may also access your records, limit the number of sessions, and dictate the length of each session. These constraints can disrupt your healing journey and reduce your control over your healthcare. I want to ensure that your therapy remains confidential, flexible, and fully tailored to your needs without external limitations or unnecessary delays.
How many visits? How often?
This depends on your specific needs, goals, and the level of support required. I will work with you to create a plan that best fits your goals and budget. Initially, I typically (though not always) recommend that clients attend weekly therapy. This way, we have momentum at the start of our work to establish a relationship and set clear goals. As less support is needed, we can reduce the frequency to bi-weekly and eventually monthly if needed. Long-term therapy participants may even have a few check-in sessions over the year.
Can I speak with you before our first session to see if it would be a good fit?
Yes! I offer a free 15-minute phone consultation. If you decide that I’m the right therapist for you, we will schedule your initial intake appointment.
What if I don’t know what to say when I reach out?
That’s totally okay. A lot of people feel unsure, anxious, or overwhelmed when contacting a therapist, especially if reaching out takes a lot of energy or if you’ve had difficult experiences in the past. You don’t need to write a long message or have it all figured out.
You’re welcome to use your own words, or copy/paste something like:
Hi, I’m interested in starting therapy but not sure where to begin. Can you let me know the next steps?
Hi, I’ve been feeling nervous about reaching out, but I think I’d like to work with you.
Hi, I’m looking for support with _______ and saw that you might be a good fit. What’s your availability?
You can also share as little or as much as you’re comfortable with—bullet points, questions, or even just “Hi” is enough to start.
What if I’ve had a bad experience in therapy before?
That’s completely valid—and unfortunately, not uncommon. Many people come in carrying harm from past providers who didn’t listen, pathologized their identity, pushed an agenda, or ignored the impact of trauma, oppression, or culture. If you’re cautious, that makes sense.
In this space, you’re not expected to trust right away. We can move at your pace, check in regularly, and name the impact of past harm if or when you’re ready. You’re allowed to ask questions, give feedback, or say “this doesn’t work for me.” Therapy should honor your agency, not demand your compliance.
Is telehealth just as effective as in-person therapy?
Yes—research consistently shows that telehealth can be just as effective as in-person therapy for most concerns. Many clients find it more accessible and comfortable, especially when managing anxiety, neurodivergence, chronic illness, or transportation barriers. You can attend from a space that feels safe to you, whether that’s your bedroom, car, or backyard.
That said, every person is different. If you’re not sure what works best for you, we can discuss your options and make adjustments if needed.
What if I need crisis support?
I don’t offer 24/7 crisis response. If you’re in a mental health emergency, please contact a crisis line or go to the nearest emergency room. I provide a list of non-carceral, low-barrier crisis resources on my website.
What is the Good Faith Estimate (GFE)?
The “No Surprises Act” (H.R. 133) includes requirements for health care providers, facilities, health plans, and insurers, which are intended to prevent consumers (i.e., clients) from receiving unanticipated medical bills. You have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” explaining how much your medical care will cost before initiating treatment or your scheduled appointment.

Hours
Mon – Thurs: By appointment only
Fri – Sun: Closed
Office
1455 Frazee Road, Suite 500
San Diego, CA 92108
Contact
(619) 839-9397
info@therapywithmicaela.com