FIRST THINGS FIRST
I’m new to therapy... what should I expect?
Therapy is different for everyone. Some seek therapy because their anxiety and stress have become unmanageable, and they want to learn new ways of thinking, coping and being. Others feel stuck, overwhelmed or unfulfilled, but are unsure how to create change. With the guidance of a trained professional in a safe, supportive space, you can explore old, ineffective patterns and replace them with new, more effective ones; strengthen coping, communication and decision-making skills; build self-esteem; deepen relationships; and create lasting change.
If you have any questions or would like to see if my practice feels like a good fit for you, I offer a free 15-minute phone consultation. Just jump to the contact tab and we’ll go from there!
Do you work with couples as well?
Yes. In couples work, the relationship itself is the client. My role is to help partners look at their own patterns and how they impact the dynamics playing out between them; build communication, decision-making and routines; and strengthen connection, empathy and trust.
I specialize in couples where one or both partners have ADHD, and couples navigating the added complexity of parenting a child with ADHD or other neurodivergence. These dynamics bring additional challenges and considerations that generic couples counseling often misses.
Is it just me or do things feel really stressful right now?
In recent years, my clients — many of them working in entertainment and other highly competitive fields — have expressed increased feelings of isolation, overwhelm, exhaustion, and burnout. They report difficulty concentrating, motivating, and making decisions. Add neurodivergence to the mix, and the pressure to perform can feel even more relentless. I help my clients build resilience and coping skills, manage day-to-day stressors and grueling schedules, and find sustainable ways to move forward — even in the most demanding and uncertain circumstances.
What happens on the first visit?
The first visit is largely for getting acquainted and gathering important information, such as your medical and psychological history, key events and relationships in your life, current stressors, and what changes you would like to make. I will also answer any questions you might have about my approach to therapy and the therapeutic process.
Medication or therapy?
Cognitive-behavioral therapy is an evidence-based approach to therapy. Research has shown that CBT improves issues related to anxiety and other mental health concerns better than medication alone, and there is no risk of unwanted side effects. In some cases, a combination of therapy and medication is the best course of action. I will gladly discuss this choice with you, work with your psychiatrist, or provide you with referrals, as needed.
What is the difference between therapy and coaching?
Therapy focuses on mental health, emotional processing, clinical treatment, and support. Coaching focuses on goal-setting, providing structure and accountability, and building executive functioning skills. As a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed by the Board of Behavioral Sciences in California, therapy clients must reside in California. Confidentiality is protected by law, and clients may be eligible for insurance reimbursement (see below). I treat my coaching sessions with the same degree of discretion and privacy as my therapy sessions, but please note, coaching does not carry the same legal protections, and is not eligible for insurance reimbursement. Because coaching is not bound by licensing, I can work with clients across the US and worldwide.
How much does therapy cost?
Individual sessions: $300 for 75-minute intake, $200 for 50-minute ongoing sessions.
Couples sessions: $400 for 90-minute intake, $250 for 60-minute ongoing sessions.
I will review all fees and payment options with you at the time of your inquiry. All inquiries are welcome.
How much does coaching cost?
Single sessions, booked as needed: $300 for 60 minutes.
Short- and long-term packages, tailored to your specific goals, also available.
I will review all fees and payment options with you at the time of your inquiry. All inquiries are welcome.
How does payment work?
Payment is due in full at each session via Venmo @Winifred-Flach, or credit card. Please note, there is a 4% bank processing fee for all credit card payments.
Do you take insurance?
While I can not take insurance directly, many insurance companies offer some kind of out-of-network reimbursement. I can provide you with a "Superbill" at the end of each month to submit to your insurance company. I highly recommend contacting your insurance company to discuss their policies.
What if I need to cancel?
My office has a 24-hour cancellation policy. If you need to cancel, please do so at least 24 hours before our session, otherwise a $100 cancellation fee will be due.
Does what we talk about in therapy remain confidential?
Confidentiality is one of the most important components of the client-therapist relationship. Successful therapy requires a high degree of trust with sensitive subject matter. I will never release any information about you without first obtaining your written permission, except in the following cases where I am legally mandated to break confidentiality:
* Reasonable suspicion of the abuse or neglect of children, dependent adults and elders
* Reasonable suspicion that you are in serious danger of harming yourself or another person