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Frequently Asked Questions About Therapy and Our Services

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Some Benefits of Therapy

  • ​​​Have better, more meaningful, or deeper relationships

  • Teach you how to identify and manage emotions

  • Strengthen your self-confidence and resilience

  • Point out new ways of thinking and processing

  • Learn new tools to work with your challenges

  • Improve your coping skills and the way you see things

  • Deepen your self-awareness and awareness of others

  • Build strong communication skills​​

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. ​

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 

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.

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. 

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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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!

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:

Parts WorkGestaltSomatic / Body AwarenessNon Violent CommunicationEmotionally Focused Therapy (EFT),Internal Family Systems (IFS), Trauma Informed TherapyCognitive Behavioral Theory CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), HakomiArt and Expression Therapy

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Where are your offices located?

We have two San Francisco locations: One in Lower Pacific Heights2024 Divisadero Street and one near Japantown 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

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