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CONNECT.EMPOWER.TOGETHER

Frequently Asked Questions

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  • You might be considering therapy if you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or ready to make a change. Whether it’s managing stress, anxiety, improving relationships, or just wanting to feel more fulfilled, therapy can help you gain the tools you need to move forward. It's a brave step toward better emotional well-being, personal growth, and deeper connections with yourself and others. Therapy isn’t just for when things feel wrong—it’s for anyone ready to build a healthier, happier life.

  • Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming, but you’ve already taken the first step by starting your search. It’s important to reach out and have conversations with potential therapists to see if you feel comfortable and heard. A good connection is key for therapy to work effectively.

    I recommend taking advantage of initial consultations and speaking with multiple therapists to see if their approach, expertise, and personality match your needs. Don’t forget to consider practical factors like cost and availability as well.

  • If you're interested in working with me, simply click TALK TO KAORI to schedule a 20-minute phone consultation.

    During this time, we’ll discuss my approach and address any questions you may have. It’s an opportunity to ensure we’re a good fit for each other. If needed, I’m also happy to provide referrals that align with your specific needs.

  • No, I do not participate in any insurance panels.

    I am an out-of-network provider, and at the end of each month, I will provide a receipt that you can submit for reimbursement.

    If your insurance plan offers out-of-network benefits, you may be able to get a portion of the session fee covered. I recommend contacting your insurance company to confirm coverage and ask the following questions:

    1. whether you have an out-of-network coverage

    2. whether psychotherapy (outpatient & office visit or tele-health) is covered

    3. the amount of deductible and how much you have met the deductible

    4. your responsibility (co-insurance) after the deductible is met

      ● CPT Code:
      90791 (intake session)
      90834 (45-50min session) or 90834-95 (telehealth)
      90837 (60-min session) or 90837-95 (telehealth)
      ● NPI # 1669781985

  • My fees are as follows:

    • $250 for a 45-50 minute session

    • $300 for a 60-minute session (recommended for the initial session or as needed)

    • $450 for a 90-minute ART session

    Payment is due at the time of the appointment.

    Accepted payment methods: Zelle, Venmo (@kaori-stram), credit card (3% processing fee).

    Therapy is a significant investment, and I understand that it can sometimes be beyond your budget. I offer a limited number of sliding scale slots, including availability for those participating in an AEDP research project (see the next question).

  • Yes.

    I participate as a treating clinician in the AEDP® Research Project.

    Eligible research participants can receive 16 sessions of AEDP® psychotherapy at a significantly reduced cost per session and complete questionnaires as part of the study.

    To learn more about this opportunity, please visit the AEDP® Research Project website for more details.

  • I typically schedule weekly sessions with clients to build emotional resilience, enhance skills, and track progress. Research shows that weekly sessions often lead to faster improvements.

    As we move forward in therapy and you develop greater capacity, we may shift to bi-weekly or even monthly sessions before reaching the termination or graduation phase.

  • The length of therapy varies based on your goals and progress. Some individuals experience noticeable improvements and a sense of well-being within a few months, while others may need more time to explore deeper issues.

    Throughout our sessions, we'll regularly assess your progress, discuss any changes, and identify areas for further improvement.

    In my experience, those who approach therapy with determination and commitment often experience accelerated progress and can graduate from therapy sooner.

  • Yes. In addition to long-term psychotherapy, I offer a short-term therapy option consisting of 12–16 sessions. This time-limited format is well-suited for clients who want to focus on a specific issue or engage in deep emotional work within a structured timeframe. It is informed by my experience as a therapist in the AEDP 16-session Research Project, though it is separate from the study and does not involve any questionnaires.

    I also offer Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) as a distinct, brief therapy approach. ART is designed to reduce symptoms of trauma, anxiety, and other distressing experiences in as few as 1–5 sessions, often without the need to talk about painful memories in detail.