Frequently Asked Questions

What to expect from the consultation?

When we talk during our 15 minute consultation, I’m going to go over scheduling, fees, as well as what you are hoping to get out of therapy. I want to make sure that we will be a good fit as research has shown that is the most important thing for a good outcome. The consult will not definitively determine fit, but you will get to know a little bit more about me, how I provide therapy, and ask any questions you have. If we are not a good fit or for financial/scheduling conflicts, I can also provide you a referral to hopefully help you connect to someone who can help.

What to expect before the first session?

Once your appointment is scheduled, I will send you an email to create a “patient portal” for you to complete the necessary paperwork. This will need to be completed at least 24 hours before the appointment. The paperwork/forms will consist of demographic information, questions about your background and the struggles you’re experience, and credit card information.

Insurance?

Alison is not currently accepting insurance at this time.

What are your fees?

Individual therapy rates:

Licensed therapists: $250 per session for weekly 50-minute sessions.

group therapy

$45 per session for weekly 90-minute sessions.

What is your cancellation policy?

You have a reserved time that is the same each week (ex. Tuesdays at 1:00) that is your financial responsibility, regardless if you attend the session. However, I also acknowledge that life does happen. If I am given notice, I will provide a make up session the week before, during, or after if our schedules align.

How long will I need to be in therapy?

It’s not specific, but it really does depend. There are so many factors to take into consideration when discussing therapy length. My goal is to not have you dependent on me as it is important to create a community that is going to support you. I want you to do so well out there in the world that you no longer need me.

How do you provide sessions?

Group Therapy

We meet on Zoom (HIPAA complaint). There will be opportunities for group to meet in-person in the future.

Individual Therapy

I offer phone, video through Zoom (HIPAA compliant), or in-person in Bakersfield, CA. Some people are not comfortable being on camera or are burnt out on Zoom calls throughout the week whereas others need video for them to feel connected. I will leave it up to you to decide what you are most comfortable with. From experience, women who have smaller children around tend to like the phone just because it is easier to chase the little ones.

I also see people at my office at 5701 Truxtun Avenue, Suite 200, Bakersfield, CA.

What can I expect from our sessions?

Group Therapy

Before initially joining the group, you will meet with me one-on-one to go over expectations of the group, explore any potential concerns or barriers that could get in the way of gaining from the group, and address potential frustrations and disappointments. The more you’re able to prepare for group, the more you will be able to get out of the group experience. This will also help determine if you are in a good place or a good fit to be involved in group therapy or to discuss alternative treatment options.

Groups in the beginning will start with an exercise to help us be in the present of group and a check-in. Depending on the group, we will discuss a topic as it relates to each person. As a the group facilitator, my job is to help form connections between group members, point out patterns in how members are behaving, and guide through conflicts so they can be resolved. I will provide information/education on certain topics, however, most of the group will be members interacting with each other and with

Individual Therapy

While I will normally follow your lead, I generally like to do a small check in, follow up on issues and concerns discussed previously, and address areas of importance for the session. During our time together, I will ask you to go deeper with certain thoughts, create awareness around emotions that are popping up or physical sensations felt in the body, and sitting with the discomfort of fear, sadness, and pain. Sessions can become emotionally intense at times and uncomfortable, which is normal. This is how I view it: like most types of therapies (think physical therapy), it can be uncomfortable or painful, however, it is important to respect your limits so you don’t tear an emotional tendon. Sessions can also be on the lighter side, as well, depending on the topic and your emotional resources.