Get Care · How It Works
How it works, from your first message to your first session.
Reaching out is often the hardest part, so we've made everything after it simple. Here's what happens once you get in touch, step by step, so nothing comes as a surprise.
Our care team is with you the whole way, in English or Chinese. If anything is unclear, just ask.
- We reply
- Within 1 business day
- Often the same day
- Screening
- 10 to 15 minutes
- A short form, or a call if you prefer
- First session
- Often in 1 to 2 weeks
- Some clinicians have a waitlist
- Cost
- $200 to $300
- Per session if you pay for yourself
Five steps to your first session
Our care team takes care of the details, so you can focus on getting the support you came for.
- Reach outSend us the short form, call or text (650) 434-2563, or email us. Know who you'd like to see? Book from their profile.
- A short screeningWithin one business day, we'll send a few questions about what's going on and what you're looking for, or call if you'd rather talk.
- Choosing your clinicianWe suggest clinicians who fit, with links to their profiles. If someone is fully booked, we'll offer other options or their waitlist.
- Booking and formsWe confirm the time with your clinician and email you the details. Then our secure Client Portal sends your intake forms.
- Your first sessionReminders arrive 48 hours and 10 minutes before. At the office, your therapist will come to greet you in the waiting area.
What you'll fill in before your first session
Everything is done online in our secure Client Portal, and your answers save as you go. Please complete it all before your session. If the email doesn't arrive, check your spam or promotions folder, or let us know.
Intake questionnaire
A little about you, what brings you in and your history, so your clinician can get to know you. Teens fill in their own, which goes only to them.
Informed consent
How our care works, including privacy and our cancellation policy. It needs to be signed before your first session begins.
Privacy notice
How we protect your health information under HIPAA, and your rights over it.
Card on file
For session fees and late cancellations. You won't need one if Headway, Modern Health or Spring Health takes care of your billing.
Two short questionnaires
For most clients, a few questions about mood and anxiety, repeated every few weeks so you and your clinician can see how things are changing.
Good Faith Estimate
If you're paying for yourself, an estimate of your costs for the year, as federal law requires. You're only charged for sessions you attend.
Ways to pay
We're out of network with most insurance companies, but there are several ways to use your benefits. Our care team will help you find the one that fits.
Lyra Health
If your employer offers Lyra, check your sessions with HR or your benefits team. We bill Lyra directly.
Spring Health
Create your Spring Health account, then ask their care team to match you with one of our clinicians.
Modern Health
Ask Modern Health to connect you with one of our clinicians, and we'll take it from there.
Kaiser
Ask your Kaiser clinic for an external referral first. Any copay is charged only after Kaiser processes the claim.
Other insurance
Some clinicians take plans such as Aetna and Blue Cross through Headway. Otherwise, we send a superbill each month so you can claim out-of-network benefits.
Paying yourself
$200 to $300 per therapy session, depending on the clinician. FSA and HSA cards are accepted.
Good to know
Something else on your mind? Our FAQ covers much more, and our care team is always happy to talk it through.
How soon can I start?
Many clinicians have openings within one to two weeks, and some are booked four to eight weeks ahead. If the clinician you'd like is full, we'll suggest others who can see you sooner, or add you to their waitlist, which usually takes one to two months. We can't book a first session for the very next day.
What if I need to cancel or reschedule?
Let us or your clinician know at least 48 hours before your appointment and there's no charge. Cancellations with less notice, and missed sessions, are charged the full session fee. If you use Lyra and it doesn't cover a late cancellation, the fee is yours.
Can I book several sessions at once?
Our care team books up to two sessions at a time. After that, you and your clinician plan the rhythm together, based on what will help you most.
We're coming as a couple. Anything to know?
Only one of you needs to fill in the first form. Both of you come to every couples session together, and your couples therapist won't also see either of you on your own; it's an ethical guideline in our field. If you'd like individual support too, we'll arrange another clinician.
I'm booking for my child. What's different?
For anyone under 18, a parent or legal guardian needs to contact us and give consent; other relatives can't. You'll fill in the intake form for your child, and teens fill in their own, which goes only to them.
I've been away for a while. Do I start over?
Not at all; just get in touch. If it's been three months or more since your last session, we'll send your forms again so your details, such as your insurance and address, are up to date.
Is psychological testing booked the same way?
Almost. For ADHD and autism evaluations, a psychologist first has a short phone call with you to understand your questions, and IQ tests can be booked straight away. Each assessment's page has its fees and details.
What if I need help right now?
We're an outpatient practice and can't respond to emergencies. If you're in immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. For support any time, call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
Ready when you are.
Send us a short message, or call or text (650) 434-2563. We'll take it from there, together.
