Practice Guidelines

My practice follows:

  • Ethical standards set by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences

  • HIPAA regulations protecting your privacy and health information

  • Ongoing clinical supervision and consultation to ensure high-quality care

As a mandated reporter, I am legally required to report:

  • Suspected child abuse or neglect

  • Suspected abuse of elder or dependent adults

  • Any serious threat of harm to yourself or others

Virtual Practice Clarification

I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT #154984) based in Los Angeles, CA, offering virtual therapy services to individuals and families across California. I practice under the supervision of Thomas Andre, LMFT #119254.

All virtual sessions are conducted in alignment with the ethical standards and privacy guidelines set by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. I adhere to California telehealth regulations (16 CCR § 1815.5), ensuring that each session meets the same standards of care, professionalism, and confidentiality as in-person therapy.

In accordance with California law (Business and Professions Code §§ 2290.5, 4980.43.4, and 4999.46.4), I am authorized to provide telehealth services to residents of California. The clients are required to be in California at the time of service.

Telehealth Platform & Security

Telehealth Sessions

All sessions are held virtually through a secure, HIPAA-compliant telehealth platform to protect client’s privacy and ensure confidentiality. Prior to our first meeting, the client’ll receive clear instructions on how to access the platform and what to expect from your virtual session.

Clients are required to be in California at the time of service.

What Clients Will Need

  • A stable internet connection.

  • A private, quiet space where you feel comfortable and won’t be interrupted

  • A device with a working camera and microphone. Please use a computer/laptop, with Wi-Fi/ethernet (cell phone and tablets on cellular service do not work as reliably).

  • Please try to log on about 5 min before the scheduled appointment time to test your connection.

  • A backup method (such as a cell phone) in case we run into any tech issues.

Emergency Protocols for Telehealth Sessions

While telehealth offers convenience and accessibility, it may have limitations in moments of crisis. To ensure your safety and well-being, we will create a personalized emergency plan before beginning our work together. This includes:

  • Client will join the session from a private, quiet space where they feel comfortable and won’t be interrupted. Public spaces are not acceptable.

  • Contact details for local emergency services in your area of California

  • A trusted person you designate as your emergency contact

  • Information about crisis resources available near you

  • A clear protocol for how we will manage emergencies that arise during a session

Privacy and Safety During Telehealth

To support confidentiality and create a safe therapeutic space during virtual sessions, please keep the following in mind:

  • Please do not attend sessions while under the influence of alcohol or non-prescribed substances.

  • Choose a private, quiet location where you won’t be overheard or interrupted.

  • Use headphones when possible to enhance your privacy and reduce background noise.

  • Please do not record sessions unless we have both given clear, mutual consent.

  • Make sure no one else can see your screen or hear our conversation.

Investing in Your Care

Payment & Insurance Details

I offer services on a private-pay basis, and I am in network with Aetna insurance.

What this means:

  • Payment (private pay or co-pay) is due at the time of each session.

  • If you are not using Aetna or paying out of pocket, I can provide a detailed receipt with service and diagnostic codes (superbill) that you may submit for possible out-of-network reimbursement, depending on your insurance plan. I recommend that you contact your insurance company to discuss your out of network benefits in advance.

If you're considering using insurance, please keep the following in mind:

  • Most insurance providers require a formal mental health diagnosis to process claims.

  • They may request access to session records or clinical notes.

  • These records can become part of your permanent medical history.

  • Reimbursement rates vary widely by plan, and you are responsible for filing any paperwork with your insurance company. I recommend that you contact your insurance company to discuss your out of network benefits in advance.

Your Right to a Clear Cost Estimate

Under the No Surprises Act (Section 2799B-6 of the Public Health Service Act), you are entitled to a Good Faith Estimate of the expected cost of care if you are uninsured or not using insurance.

For more information, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises or call 1-800-985-3059.

What This Means for You:

You have the right to receive a clear and transparent estimate of service fees:

  • When you schedule an appointment

  • Upon request

  • Provided both verbally and in writing

Your Rights Include:

  • A written estimate at least 1 business day before your scheduled service

  • The right to dispute a bill if charges are $400 or more above the estimate