1. What's your fee? Can you take my insurance?

My fee is $300 per 50 minute session. This fee allows me to do lots of pro bono work in the community. I am not on insurance or HMO panels. And I don't take Medical or Medicare. But, if you have a PPO plan, you can often get reimbursed for the services of an out-of-network provider. I will provide you with an insurance-friendly bill at the end of each month you can submit to your insurance company.

2. How does therapy with you work logistically?

We will meet for an initial consultation (or several) to mutually decide if we are a good fit. If we decide to move forward, we will schedule regular sessions at once (or more) per week at regular times. We can meet in person at my Oakland office, or virtually through video or phone. It can be difficult to accommodate irregular schedules. I have a 72 hour cancellation policy.

3. There are a million therapists on the Internet! How are you different?

Well, I'd say I'm very experienced and well-trained. I've been able to help a lot of people with all kinds of difficulties get better. I'm also a teacher in a Buddhist tradition, and I bring that quality of attention to this work. I'm nonjudgmental and open minded, but I'm also able to ask the hard questions; I have an excellent BS meter. I offer an experience of depth that is becoming less valued by our society in the wake of managed care, but that is life-altering for those who embark. I'm also trained in the use of psychedelic medicine in the service of emotional healing and spiritual exploration.

4. Do you do some kind of Buddhist therapy?

I don't know. My work is informed by all of my experience, including my 30 years as a student and teacher of Zen. My experiences with meditation have strongly influenced my understanding of suffering and the mind, and I'm sure that shows up in the work. But I don't have some kind of special Buddhist therapy technique.

5. Do people really still do psychoanalysis?

Absolutely. In psychoanalysis (3-5 times per week, on the couch) we are able to truly get to the root of suffering. Psychoanalysis deeply changes people. Yes, it's a big commitment, and yes, it's an investment. And, it can give you a new future. People in analysis are professionals, artists, students, and CEOs. I'd be happy to talk more about it.

6. I want to do a psychedelic journey. Can you supply me with the medicine? 

No. While I do psychedelic preparation and integration, and work with people who are prescribed ketamine, I will not supply illegal psychedelic medicines.

7. I don't want to be in psychoanalysis! Can I still work with you?

That's fine. I also see people in weekly psychotherapy. That's just right for some people.