FAQs

How does therapy work?

Therapy provides a safe space where you can bring in the challenges from your life and together we work to uncover the thoughts and emotions and behaviors that might be getting in your way. To better understand your patterns, we explore events from your early life that have created automatic reactions for you that may not be serving you well in your adult life.

As you become more conscious of these automatic responses, you will find that you have more choice and will feel more empowered.  Individual therapy also involves understanding the relationship that emerges between you and your therapist as a laboratory for what happens to you out in the world.

If you come in as a couple, we will focus on the habitual behaviors that limit intimacy between you and guide you to more effective communication and satisfying relating.

How much does therapy cost?

My fees are consistent with market rates for therapy in the Bay Area.  I am happy to discuss fees with you in our initial phone consultation.

Do you take my insurance?

I am not currently on any insurance panels, but I will provide you with superbills each month that you can submit to your insurance company for reimbursement if they cover an out of network provider.

How often will we meet?

I recommend weekly meetings as therapy is most effective with this consistency. For some people, meeting more often is beneficial.

How long are sessions?

Sessions are 50 minutes in length unless you request longer sessions.  With couples, it is sometimes most productive to meet for longer.

How long will therapy take?

There is no set duration for therapy; it depends on your particular challenges and goals.  It is important to know that therapy is not a quick fix and to be prepared for this to take time.

What can I expect in the first few sessions?

To get us started, I will ask you questions about your history and current life so that I can understand the challenges you are facing.  You will have the opportunity to share your dreams and together we will clarify what your goals are. While there are some universal themes, therapy is a unique process for each individual and the particular path of our work together will unfold as we collaborate over time.

Please call 415-272-9931 or email me at ljpantell@gmail.com to schedule an initial phone intake appointment.