Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs) are specialized mental health professionals trained in psychotherapy and family systems or system theories (understanding human interaction in a holistic way) and licensed to diagnose and treat mental and emotional disorders within the context of marriage, couples, and family systems. They can work with children, Adolescents, couples, families, and individuals. Marriage and family therapists treat a wide range of serious clinical problems including depression, marital problems, anxiety, individual psychological problems, and child-parent problems. MFTs take a holistic perspective to health care; they are concerned with the overall, long-term well-being of individuals and their families.

Initial consultation gives you an opportunity to see if you and your provider are the right match for you prior to scheduling a session. This also allows the provider to access if you are in scope This may be up to 15-20 minutes. Use this time to ask your potential therapist questions and allow them to get a sense of who you are, what your goals are and any concerns you may have

Breaking Barriers currently does not accept insurance at this time and is considered an out of network provider. By request, I can provide an invoice of itemized service, called a “superbill”. It is your responsibility to verify your out of network policy before your appointment with your insurance company. I do not accept insurance payment or submit and negotiate claims directly, and I am unable to assess whether your health insurance plan or account will provide reimbursement.

Please note that insurance companies require a mental health diagnosis in order to reimburse your expenses. As with any insurance questions, it is a good idea to call your insurance company directly to verify coverage before receiving services. Some helpful questions to ask include:

1. What is the reimbursement rate for an out-of-network provider? Will you reimburse for care provided by a therapist with an LMFT?

2. Is approval required from my primary care physician for me to pursue and be reimbursed for mental health services?

3. How many outpatient mental health sessions are covered per year?

4. What is my deductible, and has it been met?

5. Will my insurance cover telemental health services?

Most insurance does not reimburse or cover couples/marriage therapy. Clarify this with your insurance if your plan reimburses/covers diagnosis “Z Codes”.  All insurance billing must include a diagnosis, and for individuals these codes typically start with “F” (F codes include diagnoses like major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, etc.).  Most insurance plans exclude Z codes meaning you will not be reimbursed by your Insurance. 

Couples and family session are generally not covered by insurances.

A computer or device with a camera, microphone, and speaker in addition to a private space, free from interruptions where you can talk confidently. You should treat your virtual appointment as if you were in the office, meaning, if you would not do it in the office face to face, do not do it during your virtual session. If you are driving at the time of your appointment, you may be asked to reschedule. Ensure you have the space to focus on your healing.

Breaking Barriers is NOT an emergency or crisis clinic. We do not provide crisis intervention. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please call 911 or your state’s crisis line. We are appointment only.

I take appointments during the week in the evening. Evening times are based on Pacific Standard Time (PST). Please verify your time zone at time of booking.