How does e-mail consultation work?

When you send us an e-mail question or concern, to the therapist you chose, that therapist will return a response within 24-48 hours. (The only time it may take 48 hours is if our computer is down or we are out of town; if that is the case, we will contact you when we return.) We will offer you suggestions and comments that will help you come up with answers to your situation. You may decide whether or not you want to have an ongoing consultation or just a one-time session. You decide the amount of time you want the therapist to spend (30 or 60 minutes) and then either send a check or submit payment with a credit card through our secure e-mail server. Also, if you prefer, you can submit your credit card number by phoning the therapist that you have chosen. We each have confidential secure voice mail. (back to top)

What are the advantages of e-mail consulting?

If you have a difficult schedules or out of town commitments, you may find this format more convenient. The obvious advantage of e-mail consulting is that you do not need to leave your home or office, or coordinate an appointment with a busy counselor. You may also find that writing questions out may be helpful in making a problem seem clearer and might facilitate more honest exploration. Also our clients that have been using this format, indicate that they appreciate having the suggestions available to print out to encourage them months later. (back to top)

How much does e-mail consulting cost?

The charge for e-mail consultation is $1.00 per minute. This includes the time it takes to read your e-mail as well as the time it takes for us to respond. You can pay for 30, or 60 minutes which translates to $30 or $60. Then, simply send us your credit card information through our secure e-mail, or send a check to our office, or telephone your credit card number in to the therapist of your choice. When sending us a check, there will be a wait for the therapist to receive the check, before they can respond. As soon as we receive your payment we will respond to your concern. The charge is for the actual time it takes to read and respond to your e-mail. (back to top)

What is "Live Chat" consulting?

"Live Chat" means that we schedule a time to speak to with you, via the computer (keyboard conversation), screen to screen, using a private chat room. This type of consult will allow for a more in-depth discussion regarding your concerns. Also it will allow us to ask you questions and give you feedback instantly. If you prefer a consult using this format please state what day and time would be best for you. Since we have busy private practices, we might not be able to accommodate all requests, but we can refer you to someone who might be more available. (back to top)

What is the charge for "Live Chat"?

For each 50 minute "live" online chat there is a $60.00 fee. Chats can also be scheduled for 30 minutes at $36.00. Send via e-mail your request for a chat, and which days and times you might be available. You will be e-mailed back instructions for chat consulting as well as an acceptance of one of your times, or you will be given alternatives. (back to top)

If I live in San Diego can I see you in person?

We have offices located in Pacific Beach, La Jolla, and Del Mar. Our fees are slightly higher in our private practice than at the Website. However, we can accept most insurances and standard champus at our private practice locations. If you would like to schedule an appointment please call the telephone number listed on the individual therapist pages on this site. If you have a question you would like answered, please e-mail your question to the therapist that you choose. We would be happy to send you a free reply to any questions regarding our services. (back to top)

Is e-mail or "live chat" considered counseling?

Online counseling is considered experimental at this point. Because a therapist cannot see or hear clients in cyberspace, there are many important clues that are missing using this medium. These visual and auditory clues include, facial expression, body language, and the tone of voice. Therefore, the therapist's perceptions are limited by the written information the client supplies. Because of this limitation, online consulting is not a therapy. Therefore people in need of a therapeutic relationship must seek treatment from a licensed professional within their own community. (back to top)

When should I seek traditional Mental health Treatment rather than an Online Consult?

• If you are in an abusive, violent relationship.
• If you have been seriously and deeply depressed.
• If you are having thoughts of hurting yourself (i.e. suicidal thoughts) or someone else (i.e violent thoughts toward others), or psychotic symptoms.
• If you are a minor (under 18 years old).

NOTE: The conditions listed above are not appropriate for online consults. Calling your local crisis hotline or finding a mental health counselor in your area would be right thing to do at this time. For listings in your area call 411 or look in your phone book for mental health listings. (back to top)

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