Have any questions before taking your next step?
Find answers here to common questions about starting therapy, working with our therapists, costs, and what to expect from your experience at the Center for Mindful Psychotherapy.
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Getting Started with Therapy
How do I know if therapy is right for me?
Therapy can be helpful for anyone navigating life transitions, processing difficult emotions, working through relationship challenges, or seeking personal growth. You don’t need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. Many people seek support during times of change, such as career transitions, grief, anxiety, depression, or simply wanting to understand themselves better. If you find yourself feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or curious about patterns in your life, therapy may offer valuable perspective and tools.
What should I look for when choosing a therapist?
The relationship between you and your therapist is one of the strongest predictors of positive outcomes in therapy. When browsing our therapist directory, consider therapists whose areas of focus align with what you want to work on, whose therapeutic approaches resonate with you, and whose background or identity feels like a comfortable fit. Many clients also consider practical factors like scheduling availability and whether the therapist offers telehealth, in person sessions, or both. We encourage you to reach out to a few therapists whose profiles interest you and schedule brief consultations to find the right match.
What is a consultation call and what should I ask?
A consultation call is typically a free 15 to 20 minute phone or video conversation that allows you and the therapist to get a sense of each other before committing to ongoing work. This is your opportunity to share briefly what brings you to therapy, ask about the therapist’s experience with your concerns, and see whether you feel comfortable with their communication style. Good questions to ask include how they typically approach the issues you’re facing, what a typical session looks like, and how they measure progress. Trust your instincts about whether the conversation feels natural and supportive.
What happens in a first therapy session?
The first session, sometimes called an intake, focuses on getting to know you and understanding what brings you to therapy. Your therapist will ask about your current concerns, relevant history, and what you hope to achieve. This session also covers practical matters like confidentiality, scheduling, and communication preferences. You won’t be expected to share everything at once. The goal is to begin building a foundation of trust and understanding. Many people feel nervous before their first session, and that’s completely normal. Your therapist is trained to help you feel comfortable and will move at a pace that works for you.
How often should I attend therapy sessions?
Most clients begin with weekly sessions, which allows for continuity and momentum in the therapeutic process. As you progress, you and your therapist may discuss adjusting frequency based on your needs, goals, and circumstances. Some clients eventually transition to biweekly or monthly sessions as they develop skills and feel more stable. The right frequency depends on what you’re working through, your schedule, and your budget. Your therapist will collaborate with you to find a rhythm that supports your growth.
How long does therapy typically last?
The duration of therapy varies widely depending on your goals, the complexity of what you’re working through, and your pace of progress. Some clients find that 8 to 12 sessions provide meaningful relief and new skills for specific concerns. Others engage in longer term therapy spanning months or years to address deeper patterns, process trauma, or support ongoing personal development. There is no predetermined timeline, and you can revisit your goals with your therapist at any point. Therapy ends when you feel you’ve achieved what you came for or have the tools to continue your growth independently.
About Our Therapists
What is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT)?
An Associate Marriage and Family Therapist is a therapist who has completed a graduate degree in counseling or marriage and family therapy and is now gaining supervised clinical experience toward full licensure. In California, AMFTs must complete 3,000 hours of supervised clinical work, including at least 1,500 hours of direct client contact, before becoming fully licensed. Our AMFTs work under the close supervision of licensed clinicians who provide guidance, case consultation, and oversight of their clinical work. AMFTs bring current training, fresh perspectives, and dedicated attention to their clients while meeting rigorous standards set by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences.
What is the difference between an AMFT and a licensed therapist (LMFT)?
The primary difference is licensure status and supervision requirements. A Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), as described by CAMFT (California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists), has completed all educational requirements, accumulated the required supervised hours, and passed state licensing examinations. LMFTs can practice independently without supervision. An Associate MFT has completed their graduate education and is working toward licensure under supervision. Both AMFTs and LMFTs receive the same foundational training in therapeutic techniques, ethics, and clinical assessment. Research suggests that therapist experience level is less predictive of outcomes than the quality of the therapeutic relationship, meaning an AMFT who is a good fit for you may be just as effective as a more experienced clinician.
How are your therapists supervised?
All of our Associate therapists receive ongoing clinical supervision from licensed professionals in accordance with California Board of Behavioral Sciences requirements. Supervision includes regular individual and group consultation where therapists discuss cases, receive feedback on their clinical work, and continue developing their skills. This structure ensures that even though you’re working with an early career therapist, your care is supported by the expertise of experienced clinicians. Supervisors are available to consult on complex situations and help therapists navigate challenges that arise in treatment.
What therapeutic approaches do your therapists use?
Our therapists are trained in a variety of evidence based and experiential approaches, and many integrate multiple modalities depending on client needs. Common approaches within our collective include psychodynamic therapy, which explores how past experiences shape current patterns; cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which focuses on the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors; somatic therapy, which attends to how the body holds and processes emotion; trauma informed care; mindfulness based approaches; and relational therapy, which emphasizes the healing potential of the therapeutic relationship itself. When browsing our directory, you can filter by therapeutic approach to find therapists whose methods align with your preferences.
Can I switch therapists if it’s not a good fit?
Yes. Finding the right therapist sometimes takes more than one try, and that’s okay. If you feel that your current therapist isn’t the right match, we encourage you to discuss this with them directly if you feel comfortable, as sometimes adjustments can improve the relationship. If you’d prefer to work with someone else, you can reach out to our intakes team or browse our directory to find another therapist within our collective. A good therapeutic fit matters more than sticking with a particular clinician, and no therapist will take it personally if you need something different.
How do I join the CMP team as a therapist?
If you are interested in joining the CMP team as an Associate therapist, please fill out the form here.
Cost and Payment
How much does therapy cost?
Session fees at the Center for Mindful Psychotherapy vary by therapist. Each therapist sets their own rates, which you can find on their individual profile in our directory. Because we are a nonprofit collective of early career therapists, our rates are generally lower than those of fully licensed therapists in private practice in the San Francisco Bay Area. We are committed to making therapy accessible, and many of our therapists offer sliding scale options for clients who cannot afford standard rates.
What is sliding scale and how does it work?
While we are not a low-fee clinic, sliding scale is a fee structure that adjusts based on your financial circumstances. The idea is that clients who have more financial resources pay toward the higher end of a range, which helps subsidize reduced rates for clients with fewer resources. If you’re interested in a reduced fee, you can discuss this directly with your therapist during your consultation or first session. Availability of sliding scale spots varies by therapist and may be limited. We encourage honesty about your financial situation so we can work together to find an arrangement that makes therapy sustainable for you.
Do you accept insurance?
Our therapists operate as private pay providers and do not bill insurance directly. However, if you have a PPO insurance plan with out of network benefits, you may be able to receive partial reimbursement for therapy sessions. Your therapist can provide you with a superbill, which is a detailed receipt that you submit to your insurance company for potential reimbursement. We recommend contacting your insurance provider to ask about your out of network mental health benefits, including your deductible and reimbursement rate, before beginning therapy.
What is a superbill and how do I use it?
A superbill is an itemized receipt that includes the information insurance companies need to process a claim: your therapist’s credentials and license number, diagnosis codes, procedure codes, dates of service, and fees paid. If your insurance plan offers out of network benefits, you can submit superbills to request reimbursement. The amount you receive back depends on your specific plan’s coverage. Your therapist can generate superbills for you upon request, typically on a monthly basis or at whatever frequency works for your insurance submission process.
What forms of payment do you accept?
Payment methods vary by therapist but typically include credit cards, debit cards, HSA and FSA cards, and sometimes electronic payment platforms. Your therapist will discuss payment logistics during your first session. Many therapists collect payment at the time of service, while others invoice on a regular schedule. If you have questions about payment options, feel free to ask during your consultation call.
Telehealth and Online Therapy
How does telehealth therapy work?
Telehealth therapy sessions are conducted through secure, HIPAA compliant video platforms similar to Zoom or FaceTime. At your scheduled appointment time, you log into a virtual waiting room or click a link provided by your therapist, and the session proceeds much like an in person appointment. You’ll need a device with a camera and microphone, such as a laptop, tablet, or smartphone, and a reliable internet connection. Many clients find telehealth convenient because it eliminates commute time and allows them to attend sessions from the comfort of their own space.
Is online therapy as effective as in person therapy?
Research consistently shows that telehealth therapy is as effective as in person therapy for most mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. A 2021 study published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research compared outcomes for nearly 2,400 patients receiving intensive mental health treatment and found no significant differences in symptom reduction or quality of life improvements between those treated in person and those treated via telehealth (Bulkes et al., 2021). The quality of the therapeutic relationship remains the strongest predictor of positive outcomes regardless of delivery format. Some clients actually find it easier to open up from their own environment, while others prefer the contained space of an office. The best format is the one that allows you to engage fully and consistently. If you’re unsure, many therapists offer both options and can help you determine what works best for you.
Do I have to be in California to see a CMP therapist?
Yes. Our therapists are licensed or registered with the California Board of Behavioral Sciences and can only provide therapy to clients who are physically located in California at the time of their session. This is a legal requirement, not a preference. If you live in California but travel frequently, you can continue telehealth sessions while traveling within the state. If you’ll be out of state, you’ll need to pause sessions or discuss options with your therapist. And if you’re relocating out of California, your therapist can help you find referrals in your new location.
What do I need to prepare for a telehealth session?
Find a private, quiet space where you can speak freely without being overheard. This might be a bedroom, home office, or even your parked car. Test your internet connection, camera, and microphone beforehand. Close unnecessary browser tabs and applications to minimize distractions and technical issues. Have the video link or login information ready a few minutes before your session. Consider having water, tissues, and a notepad nearby. Treat the session as you would an in person appointment: try to minimize interruptions and give yourself a few minutes before and after to transition.
Do you offer in person sessions?
Yes. We have office locations throughout the Bay Area, including San Francisco, Oakland, Berkeley, Marin, and Palo Alto, where therapists see clients in person. Availability of in person sessions varies by therapist. Many of our therapists offer a hybrid model, allowing you to choose telehealth or in person sessions based on your needs and schedule. When browsing our directory, you can filter for therapists who offer in person appointments in your preferred location.
Confidentiality and Privacy
Is what I share in therapy confidential?
Yes, with limited exceptions. Confidentiality is a cornerstone of therapy. What you share with your therapist stays between you and your therapist, and is protected by law. There are a few legally mandated exceptions: if you pose an imminent danger to yourself or others, if there is suspected abuse or neglect of a child, elder, or dependent adult, or if a court orders disclosure. Your therapist will explain these limits during your first session. Outside of these rare circumstances, your privacy is protected. Because our Associates work under supervision, your case may be discussed with their supervisor, who is also bound by confidentiality.
How is my information stored and protected?
We use HIPAA compliant systems for scheduling, video sessions, and record keeping. This means your personal information and session notes are encrypted and stored securely. Our therapists are trained in privacy practices and follow strict protocols to protect your data. We do not sell or share your information with third parties. If you have specific questions about our privacy practices, your therapist can provide more detail, and our full privacy policy is available upon request.
Will my employer or family know I’m in therapy?
Not unless you tell them. We do not contact employers, family members, or anyone else without your explicit written consent. If you’re using insurance, your insurance company will have records of claims, but they are also bound by privacy regulations. If privacy from family members sharing your insurance is a concern, paying out of pocket keeps therapy completely separate from insurance records. Your therapist can discuss strategies for maintaining privacy based on your specific situation.
During the Therapy Process
What if I don’t know what to talk about in a session?
This happens more often than you might think, and it’s not a problem. Your therapist is trained to help guide the conversation and can offer reflections, questions, or topics to explore. Sometimes the most productive sessions come from not having an agenda, as it allows space for whatever is present in the moment to emerge. If you often feel stuck, you might try keeping a brief journal between sessions to note thoughts, feelings, or situations you want to explore. But truly, there’s no pressure to arrive with a prepared topic.
What if therapy feels uncomfortable or brings up difficult emotions?
Therapy often involves exploring painful or uncomfortable material, and feeling emotional during or after sessions is normal and often a sign that meaningful work is happening. Your therapist will help you pace the work so it feels manageable and will teach you skills to regulate difficult emotions. If something feels like too much, it’s important to tell your therapist so they can adjust their approach. Healing isn’t always comfortable, but it shouldn’t feel retraumatizing. A skilled therapist will help you find the balance between challenge and safety.
How do I know if therapy is working?
Progress in therapy can be subtle and doesn’t always follow a straight line. Signs that therapy is working might include feeling more understood, noticing patterns you didn’t see before, responding differently to familiar situations, feeling less overwhelmed by difficult emotions, or having more clarity about your values and choices. Your therapist may check in periodically about how you’re experiencing the process. It’s also helpful to reflect on your original goals and notice whether you’re moving toward them, even in small ways. If you’re unsure, raise the question with your therapist. Discussing progress is a valuable part of the work.
Can I contact my therapist between sessions?
Policies on between session contact vary by therapist. Most therapists are available for brief administrative communications, such as scheduling changes, via email or a client portal. Some therapists offer limited check ins between sessions, while others reserve all clinical conversation for session time. Your therapist will clarify their policies during your first session. If you’re experiencing a crisis between sessions, your therapist will provide information about how to reach them and what resources to use if they’re unavailable.
What should I do if I need to cancel or reschedule?
Each therapist has their own cancellation policy, which they’ll share during your first session. Most require at least 24 to 48 hours notice for cancellations to avoid being charged for the missed session. Life happens, and therapists understand that occasional cancellations are unavoidable. However, consistent attendance is important for progress, so if you’re frequently needing to cancel, it may be worth discussing barriers to attendance with your therapist.
Crisis and Safety Resources
What should I do if I’m in crisis?
If you are in immediate danger or experiencing a life threatening emergency, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room. For mental health crises that are not immediately life threatening, you can reach the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988. This free, confidential service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The Crisis Text Line is also available by texting HOME to 741741. Your therapist can provide additional local resources during your first session, and you can reach out to them for guidance during business hours, but therapy is not a crisis service and therapists cannot guarantee immediate response.
Is CMP appropriate for people with severe mental illness?
Our collective primarily serves clients with mild to moderate mental health concerns, life transitions, and personal growth goals. Some of our therapists have experience working with more complex presentations, including trauma, personality concerns, or chronic mental health conditions. However, we may not be the best fit for individuals who need intensive services, such as those requiring frequent crisis intervention, psychiatric hospitalization, or wraparound care coordination. If your needs exceed what we can offer, we’re happy to help connect you with more appropriate resources.
Practical Matters at Center for Mindful Psychotherapy
How do I get started?
The best way to get started is to browse our therapist directory on our website. You can filter by specialty, therapeutic approach, identity factors, and availability. When you find therapists who seem like a good fit, reach out to them directly through the contact information on their profile to schedule a consultation call. If you’d like personalized guidance, you can also contact our intakes team and someone will help you find therapists who match your needs.
What are your office hours?
Because our therapists maintain individual schedules, there are no collective office hours. Many therapists offer sessions during traditional business hours, and some also offer early morning, evening, or weekend availability. When browsing our directory or speaking with a therapist, you can ask about their current openings to find times that work with your schedule.
Do you offer couples or family therapy?
Yes. Many of our therapists are trained in couples and family therapy. Marriage and Family Therapy is actually the licensure track that most of our clinicians are pursuing, which means they receive specialized training in relational dynamics and working with more than one person in the room. If you’re seeking couples or family therapy, you can filter our directory accordingly or mention it when contacting potential therapists.
Do you work with children or adolescents?
Some of our therapists specialize in working with children, adolescents, and families. If you’re seeking therapy for a minor, you can filter our directory to find therapists with experience in child and adolescent therapy. These therapists are trained in developmentally appropriate approaches and understand the unique considerations involved in working with younger clients, including parental involvement and school coordination.
I have another question that wasn’t answered here.
We’re happy to help. For general inquiries, you can email us at [email protected]. If you have a question for a specific therapist, you can contact them directly through their profile in our directory.
May I speak with someone at CMP?
Phone numbers are provided for all of the therapists on our website, so you can contact them directly if you know who you would like to speak with.
Browse our Therapist Directory
Alternatively, if you wish to reach a member of the Admin team or staff, use our contact page to see how to best contact us for your need.
If you need support in choosing a therapist, please schedule a phone consultation with our intake team. During your 20-minute phone consultation, we will ask some questions to get a better understanding of your needs and preferences. Based on what you share, we will select the best match for you. It can be hard to tell whether it’s a good fit over the phone. Therefore, we request that you have at least one session with your assigned therapist.