The Process
No mystery, no jargon. Here's how the work unfolds — and a little on why I work the way I do.
A note on the approach · Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy
Here's the honest version: most therapy approaches treat the symptoms. Psychoanalytic therapy asks why the symptoms exist in the first place. It's the idea that our minds hold more than we're consciously aware of — and that the patterns causing problems today were usually formed long ago, for reasons that made sense then. The work is making those patterns visible, understanding their origins, and gradually loosening their grip. It's slower than a checklist. It's also more lasting.
A brief phone or video call — no paperwork, no intake forms. Just a real conversation to see if we're a fit. You can ask me anything. I'll give you a straight answer.
This step is optional. If you already know you want to start, you can book a full 50-minute session instead and begin there — both appointment types are on the same booking calendar.
The first sessions are about building a full picture. I'll ask about your history, what's brought you here, and what you're hoping changes. We're not in a hurry — but we are paying attention.
This is where we start to understand the pattern: how the misalignment happened, what it's been protecting, and what it would look like to live closer to your actual self. Depth takes time — and it's worth it.
Therapy isn't linear. We build in regular check-ins to assess what's landing and what to recalibrate. You're never locked in — and you always know where we are.
No. The free 15-minute consultation is there if you want it, but you can book a full 50-minute session straight away instead. Both appointment types sit on the same booking calendar — you just pick whichever fits when you get there. Most people start with the call because it costs nothing and commits them to nothing, but if you already know what you're looking for, there's no reason to wait.
Honestly, it varies. Some people come in with something specific to work through and wrap up in a few months. Others stick around longer because they're not just trying to feel better — they're trying to understand themselves. We talk about it as we go, and you're always the one calling the shots.
Sessions are $125 for 50 minutes. I'm a private pay practice and don't work with insurance directly — and sliding scale pricing is available, so the full fee is never the only option. If it's a stretch, just say so on our free call.
Then say so — that's genuinely all it takes. Sliding scale means we agree on a reduced fee based on what you can realistically afford. There are no forms, no proof of income, and nothing to justify. You share what's workable on the free call, and we find a number that lets you do the work without wrecking your budget.
Totally normal — most people aren't sure when they first reach out. That's what the free consultation is for. Tell me what's going on, and I'll help you figure out the best path forward. If that ends up being me, great. If someone else is a better fit for what you're looking for, I'll tell you honestly and help you find them. The right care matters more than my caseload.
No. Most of the people who reach out are doing fine on paper. They're competent. They've read the books. They're not in freefall — they're stuck in a pattern they can't quite get out of, and they sometimes wonder if they're "allowed" to be in therapy at all. You are. You don't need a diagnosis to do this work. You don't need to cry. You definitely don't need to fake anything. We just get honest and figure out what's actually going on underneath.
Yes — virtual sessions are available Tuesday through Thursday for anyone in Pennsylvania. In-person sessions are held Mondays at my office in East Falls, Philadelphia.
Ready when you are
A free 15-minute call if you'd like to talk first, or a full 50-minute session if you're ready to begin. No paperwork either way — both are on the same calendar.