Table of Contents
→Online Therapy
→The Therapy Process
→Scheduling & Logistics
Confidentiality
→Fees & Insurance
→Specific Approaches
→Cultural & Identity Issues
→For Therapists Seeking Supervision
→Other Common Questions
Is online therapy as effective as in-person therapy?
Yes! Research consistently shows that online therapy is just as effective as in-person therapy for most concerns—including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and more.
In fact, online therapy has some unique advantages:
- You're in a familiar, comfortable environment where it's easier to relax
- Lower barrier for people with social anxiety
- Greater consistency (you can continue therapy when traveling or if you move)
- More scheduling flexibility
Is it right for you?
Online therapy isn't right for everyone. During our initial consultation, we'll discuss whether it's a good fit for your specific situation.
Is online therapy safe and private?
Absolutely. Your privacy and confidentiality are my top priorities.
Technical Security
- I use HIPAA and PHIPA-compliant, encrypted video platforms
- All data transmission is encrypted
- Your records are securely stored with industry-standard protections
- I never record sessions without your explicit written consent
Professional Confidentiality
- I follow strict ethical guidelines set by regulatory bodies.
- What you share stays between us (with rare legal exceptions—see "When is confidentiality broken?" below)
- I cannot share your information with anyone without your consent
What You Can Do
- Use headphones to protect your privacy
- Find a private space where others can't overhear
- Use a secure internet connection (not public WiFi)
What technology do I need?
Required:
- Stable internet connection (WiFi recommended over cellular data)
- Computer, tablet, or smartphone
- Built-in or external microphone and camera
Recommended:
- Computer or tablet (larger screen = better experience than phone)
- Headphones or earbuds (for privacy and better audio quality)
- For EMDR sessions: Computer is required (not phone or small tablet)
How long does therapy take to work?
This could depend on several factors:
- What you're working on
- The complexity and duration of your concerns
- How much time and energy you can invest
General Timelines:
Short-term stabilization or situational issues
6-12 sessions
Moderate concerns
3-6 months
(anxiety, depression management, relationship skills)
Complex or long-standing issues
6-12+ months
(trauma, deep-rooted patterns, long-term self-exploration and personal growth)
We'll regularly check in on your progress and adjust our approach as needed. We continuously evaluate what's working so you won't feel "stuck" in therapy.
What happens in a typical therapy session?
It depends on you, your needs, and the therapeutic approach we're using.
A session might include:
Talking & Exploring
- Sharing what's happening in your life
- Processing emotions and experiences
- Gaining insight into patterns
Skills Building
- Learning techniques for managing anxiety, emotions, or stress
- Practicing new communication or coping strategies
- Mindfulness or grounding exercises
Trauma Processing
- EMDR or other trauma-focused work
- Body-centered approaches
Creative & Expressive Work
- Using art, metaphor, movement, or drama (when appropriate)
- Accessing what words alone can't reach
Will I have homework between sessions?
When Homework Helps:
- Certain approaches (CBT, DBT) involve practicing skills between sessions
- You might track mood, thoughts, or behaviors
- You might try small experiments or new behaviors
- Mindfulness or journaling practices
But:
- I never force homework on you
- Your life is probably already full—I won't add burden
- If practice would help your growth, we'll design it together
- If it creates more stress, we can seek alternatives
What if we're not a good fit?
The therapeutic relationship is crucial to good outcomes. If you feel we're not clicking, please tell me!
We Have Options
- Discuss what's not feeling right and see if we can adjust our approach
- Explore what you need that you're not getting
- If we genuinely aren't a good match, I'll help you find someone who is
No Judgment
Finding the right therapist sometimes takes trying a few. This isn't failure— it's you advocating for yourself, which I deeply respect.
My Commitment
Even if we decide not to continue working together, I'll make sure you have appropriate support and referrals.
How quickly can I get an appointment?
Free Consultation Call
Usually within 1-3 business days
First Therapy Session
Typically within 1-2 weeks
Do you have evening or weekend appointments?
Yes! I understand that many people work or have commitments during traditional business hours.
I offer:
- Weekday evening appointments
- Limited weekend slots
Specific availability changes, so check the online scheduler or ask during your consultation call.
What if I need support between sessions?
Brief Check-ins
For non-urgent questions or brief updates, you can email me. I typically respond within 2 business days.
Please note: Email is for logistical matters or brief check-ins, not for ongoing therapeutic conversations.
In Crisis
If you're in crisis (risk of harming yourself or others), do NOT rely on email or voicemail. Use these resources immediately:
- 🆘 911 (immediate danger)
- 🆘 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline—24/7, call or text)
- 🆘 Go to your nearest emergency room
Safety Planning: In our early sessions, we'll create a safety plan together so you know exactly what to do if you're in crisis.
Do you take insurance?
Ontario:
Insurance Coverage: Most extended health insurance plans in Ontario cover psychotherapy services provided by a Registered Psychotherapist (RP).
How It Works:
- You pay for services directly at time of session
- I provide detailed receipts after each session
- You submit receipts to your insurance company for reimbursement
- Your insurer reimburses you directly
What to Check With Your Insurance:
✓ Do you have coverage for "Registered Psychotherapist" or "Psychotherapy"?
✓ What is your annual coverage limit? (Often $500-$3,000)
✓ How many sessions are covered per year?
✓ Is there a co-pay or deductible?
✓ Do you need a doctor's referral?
Common Insurance Providers That Cover Psychotherapy:
- Manulife
- Sun Life
- Great-West Life
- Canada Life
- Green Shield
- Blue Cross
- Equitable Life
- Many others
New York:
Insurance:
I can accept Aetna as Insurance Network.
If you aren't with Aetna, I can also provide out-of-pocket service. This means:
- I do not bill insurance companies directly
- You pay me directly for services
- I provide a "superbill" (detailed receipt) for you to submit to your insurance
- Your insurance may reimburse you for out-of-network mental health services
Why Out-of-Network?
✓ Complete privacy—insurance companies don't access your records
✓ No diagnosis required (unless you want insurance reimbursement)
✓ Flexible, individualized treatment without insurance company restrictions
✓ Full control over length and frequency of treatment
✓ I work for you, not the insurance company
Typical Reimbursement Rates:
- 50-80% of the session fee (after deductible is met)
- Varies significantly by plan
HSA/FSA: Mental health services are HSA/FSA eligible. I can provide receipts for reimbursement from these accounts.
Good Faith Estimate: As required by federal law, I will provide a Good Faith Estimate of expected costs upon request before beginning services.
Do you offer a sliding scale?
Yes. I believe quality mental health care should be accessible.
I reserve a limited number of sliding scale spots for:
- Early-career individuals
- Students
- Those experiencing financial hardship
Please bring this up during our free consultation call. All inquiries are handled with discretion and respect.
What's your cancellation policy?
I ask for at least 24 hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule.
Late Cancellations
If you cancel with less than 24 hours' notice, you'll be charged the full session fee. This is because that time was reserved for you and I can't offer it to someone else on short notice.
Emergencies
True emergencies (sudden illness, family crisis, etc.) are handled with flexibility. Just communicate with me.
If I Cancel
If I need to cancel or reschedule, I'll give you as much notice as possible. If it's my error or last-minute on my end, there's no charge and we'll find a new time.
Why This Policy: Your time is valuable, and so is mine. This policy ensures we both respect our commitment to the therapeutic work.
What is EMDR and how does it work?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a specialized, evidence-based therapy for trauma and PTSD.
How It Works:
While you recall a traumatic memory, I guide you through bilateral stimulation (usually eye movements, sometimes tapping or sounds). This activates your brain's natural healing process to reprocess the memory.
It sounds unusual, but:
- It's backed by extensive research
- It's recognized by WHO, APA, and other major health organizations
- Many people find it gentler and faster than traditional talk therapy for trauma
- People regain control of their lives without having to relive the pain
What to Expect:
- We start with preparation and safety-building before processing trauma
- You don't have to share every detail of the trauma
- Processing happens at your pace - You have control
You mentioned Playback Theatre and Drama Therapy—what is that and how does it relate to therapy?
Playback Theatre is an improvisational theater form where audience members share personal stories, and actors immediately bring those stories to life on stage.
DvT (Developmental Transformation) is a drama therapy technique that use playfulness and imagination to help people feel lighter and more flexible in thinking.
How It Relates to My Therapy Work:
While we may not need to act out a story in individual therapy, I integrate elements in my work:
- Drama therapy techniques
- Creative and embodied expression
- Being attuned with our body and our feelings
- Using metaphor, story, and imagination
- Somatic approaches (not just talking)
I'm not Asian—can I still work with you?
Absolutely! While I have deep expertise working with Asian and Asian American clients, I am currently working with clients of all backgrounds.
I work with:
- All racial and ethnic identities
- LGBTQ+ individuals
- Immigrants and first/second-generation Americans/Canadians
- Anyone seeking culturally humble, trauma-informed, person-centered therapy
Do you speak Mandarin?
Yes! I offer bilingual services in English and Mandarin.
Why Language Matters:
- Some emotions and experiences are easier to express in your first language
- Cultural concepts don't always translate well
- Speaking in your native language can help you feel more comfortable and understood
Flexible Language Use
Many bilingual clients naturally switch between languages—that's completely fine and often helpful!
Are you LGBTQ+ affirming?
Absolutely and unequivocally yes.
Leap Well is a fully LGBTQ+ affirmative practice. This means:
- Your identity is welcome and celebrated
- I understand minority stress and its impact on mental health
- I'm knowledgeable about LGBTQ+-specific issues (coming out, family rejection, discrimination, dating, etc.)
- I stay current on best practices for LGBTQ+ affirming care
- Pronouns, chosen names, and identities are always respected
Do you provide supervision for licensure?
Yes! I provide clinical supervision that meets requirements for:
- CRPO (College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario)
- NASW and state licensing boards in New York
I provide all necessary documentation and tracking for your licensure applications.
I'm already licensed—can I still work with you?
Absolutely! Many licensed therapists seek ongoing consultation for:
Complex cases
Processing counter-transference
Navigating difficult dynamics
Self-care and preventing burnout
I am invested in your growth and the quality of care you provide.
Why should minority therapists choose you for supervision?
As an Asian immigrant woman therapist, I deeply understand the unique challenges minority therapists face:
- Navigating predominantly white clinical spaces
- Managing cultural expectations while maintaining professional boundaries
- The isolation of being "the only one"
- Microaggressions from colleagues or clients
- Pressure to represent your entire community
- Imposter syndrome amplified by systemic barriers
In supervision, we:
- Name these dynamics openly without shame
- Explore how your identity is a strength in your clinical work
- Develop strategies for navigating difficult institutional situations
- Build community (especially in group supervision)
- Support your wellness and sustainability in this field
I'm committed to helping more minority therapists not just survive, but thrive.
Can I bring my partner/family member to a session?
For Individual Therapy:
Sessions are usually one-on-one, but occasionally bringing in a significant other, family member, or friend can be helpful. We'd discuss this and plan it together.
For Couples/Family Therapy:
Yes, relevant parties attend together.
Can I contact you on social media or text?
For Your Privacy and Professional Boundaries:
Best Contact Methods:
- ✓ Email: [email protected] (for scheduling, administrative questions)
- ✓ Secured platform in-app messaging (for brief check-ins, not emergencies)
Not Recommended:
- ✗ Social media DMs (not secure or professional)
- ✗ Regular text/wechat messages (not secure for sensitive content)
Social Media:
I don't accept friend requests or follows from current or former clients. This is to protect your privacy and maintain therapeutic boundaries.
Still Have Questions?
If your question isn't answered here, please reach out:
I'm happy to answer any questions you have about working together.
Frequently Asked Questions