Frequently Asked Questions
Getting Started
How do I start?
Schedule a complimentary 15-minute virtual consultation. We'll talk briefly about what's bringing you in, you can ask me anything about my practice, and we'll both get a sense of whether we're a good fit. If we decide to work together, we'll schedule a 60-minute intake session.
What happens during the consultation?
It's a brief, no-pressure conversation, not a therapy session. I'll ask about what you're looking for, and you can ask about how I work, fees, logistics, or anything else you need to decide. There's no obligation to continue afterward.
Do I need to prepare anything?
No. It helps to have a quiet, private space with a stable internet connection, and a rough sense of what's been on your mind. That's plenty.
How do I know if we might be a good fit?
My approach tends to work well for people who are curious about themselves and want to understand how long-standing emotional and relationship patterns developed. You don't need to know exactly what you want to explore. A willingness to be curious about your experience is enough. The consultation also gives us a chance to see whether you feel understood and comfortable working with me.
Sessions & Logistics
Where do sessions take place?
In person at 303 Fifth Avenue, 17th Floor, in Midtown Manhattan, or by secure video anywhere in New York, New Jersey, and 40+ PSYPACT states.
Do you offer in-person or online therapy?
Both, and the choice is yours. Some clients prefer coming to the Manhattan office; others meet by video. We can talk through which format fits your life in the consultation.
Do you offer therapy in Mandarin?
Yes. I work in both English and Mandarin, and you're welcome to move between the two in session.
What is your cancellation policy?
Please give at least 24 hours notice to change or cancel an appointment. Late cancellations and missed sessions are charged the full fee.
Fees & Insurance
What is your fee?
$350 per 50-minute session. This applies to individual therapy, couples and family sessions, and diagnostic interviews.
Do you take insurance?
I don't participate in any insurance networks. Working outside of insurance keeps your treatment private and free from insurer-imposed limits on diagnoses or session counts. Many clients with PPO plans receive significant reimbursement through out-of-network benefits.
How do out-of-network benefits work?
If your plan includes out-of-network mental health benefits (most PPOs do), you pay the full fee and get reimbursed a portion afterward. I make this easy two ways: I can submit claims on your behalf through a secure medical billing system, or I can provide a monthly superbill for you to submit yourself. After your deductible is met, many plans reimburse 50–80% per session. If you're unsure about your coverage, I can walk you through what to ask your insurer before we begin.
About Therapy
What is therapy with you like?
I'm active and engaged rather than a neutral observer. I may ask you to stay with a feeling, reflect something I notice, or connect what's happening now with earlier experiences in your life. I also pay attention to what happens between us in the room, since familiar patterns often show up there first. It's collaborative: I offer observations and questions, not verdicts about who you are.
How long does therapy take?
It depends on what you're working on. Long-standing patterns usually need time to understand and shift, and I'll be honest with you about what I think that looks like. We'll decide together and revisit the question as we go.
Is what I share confidential?
Yes. Everything you share is confidential, with the standard legal exceptions (such as imminent risk of harm to yourself or others, or suspected abuse of a child or vulnerable adult). I'll explain these clearly at the start of our work.