Frequently Asked Questions About Therapy and Our Services
What services do you offer?
We provide individual therapy, couples & pre-marital counseling, teen and family counseling, sex therapy, and LGBTQIA+ affirming care. Our clinicians address anxiety, depression, trauma, high-conflict relationships, parenting, grief, career issues, and more, online statewide and in person in San Francisco.
How do I find a therapist that I connect with?
​It's very important to find the right person for you! This means you will feel safe to say what you're thinking and feeling, develop trust both ways and feel confident in the relationship. We take this seriously and have screened and interviewed all our team members.
Complete the brief “get started/consultation” form. Within 48 hours, a therapist reaches out to you to set a free 15–20 minute phone consultation to discuss goals and approach, then you can book your first session. The consult is a way for the two of you to connect and talk about your hopes, goals, intentions plus the therapist's approach and practice. Feel free to ask as many questions as you like. If it's a good fit then you can schedule your first session. If you want to meet a different therapist, let us know. Sometimes it takes meeting a few people to find what you're looking for, and that's okay.
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What does therapy cost?
Sessions range from $140-$200, depending on the therapist and whether sessions are for an individual, couple, or family. Your therapist will confirm your specific rate during the initial conversation. ​
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Is financial assistance available?
Yes. Sliding scale therapy is offered based on financial need. Please mention this during your phone consultation so we can discuss available options.
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Does Whole Health Counseling accept insurance?
​We’re out-of-network. If qualified for reimbursement, we’ll provide a superbill to submit to your insurer. We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and HSA cards; many plans reimburse 30-60%. (Kaiser does not reimburse out-of-network
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I have never been to therapy before, what should I expect?
​You are starting a new relationship with your therapist. It will take time for them to get to know you, and for you to know them. Building safety and trust is the foundation of a good relationship. From there you will explore what comes up, what's present for you and work towards your goals. You will not be forced to share anything that is uncomfortable or triggering, you are welcome to go at your own pace. This is where you can be who you are, be honest about your thoughts or feelings, learn and grow. It's recommended that you try therapy for a minimum of 3 months so you both can build trust.
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I filled out the questionnaire, what are the next steps?
​You will be contacted by a therapist for a free 15-20 minute phone consultation. This is a great way for you to get to know one another, for you to ask questions and the therapist share more about their approach. If you don't think it's a good fit on the first try, please let us know and we will set you up with someone else. This is a very important relationship and we want you to feel comfortable, safe and understood.
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Do we meet in person or online?
We offer both and this is a decision you can make with your therapist. We see clients at two San Francisco offices and offer secure telehealth to residents in California.
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Are you LGBTQIA+ affirming?
Absolutely. We provide a safe, inclusive space with both LGBTQ+-identifying and allied therapists. Care for individual needs, including support around identity, relationships, discrimination, gender-affirming care, and mental health concerns.
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What is the difference between an associate therapist (AMFT) and a licensed therapist (LMFT)?
​An associate is a therapist that has a graduate degree and is obtaining their hours to become licensed. They work under a licensed therapists and have ongoing trainings and supervision. They have the same education as licensed therapists. A licensed therapist has completed the required 3,000 clinical hours and passed the state licensing exam. You are in good hands with both!
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What are the modalities and approaches your therapist use?
​Almost all theories, modalities and schools of psychological thought have strengths and insight. That's why most therapists integrate a few into their practice, depending on what the client wants from therapy. This includes:
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Parts Work, Gestalt, Somatic / Body Awareness, Non Violent Communication, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT),Internal Family Systems (IFS), Trauma Informed Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Theory CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Hakomi, Art and Expression Therapy
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Where are your offices located?
We have two San Francisco locations: 2024 Divisadero Street and 1734 Fillmore Street. Both offices are welcoming spaces designed for comfort and confidentiality.​​
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“Authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we're supposed to be and embracing who we actually are. Choosing authenticity means cultivating the courage to be imperfect, to set boundaries, and to be vulnerable.”
― Brené Brown, The Power of Vulnerability: Teachings of Authenticity, Connections and Courage