Frequently Asked Questions
How long are sessions?
On average, sessions are about 53-55 minutes.
How can I prepare for a session?
There isn’t much you need to do, just come as you are! You don’t have to come prepared with a laundry list of “issues” to resolve. Sometimes the biggest breakthroughs come from exploring and talking through the thoughts that are naturally there.
We do ask that you ensure you have a private space free of distractions. It could be helpful to have a notebook handy to write down any ideas that really stand out and need further reflection.
Do you accept insurance?
As of May 2026, we are only contracted with Aetna. We are currently in the process of contracting with other major insurance carriers. Feel free to check back periodically for any updates or send us a message with your information if you would like us to keep you updated about your particular insurance carrier.
If you have out-of-network benefits, we can provide you with a superbill, which is an invoice that you can send to your insurance carrier for partial reimbursement for fees paid out of pocket when you see an out-of-network provider. Superbills require diagnostic and procedure codes for your claim to be processed. We recommend speaking with your insurance carrier to ask about your out-of-network benefits.
What should I know about using insurance?
It’s important to know what your benefits cover so you don’t get stuck with an unexpected bill. Here are some helpful questions we recommend you ask your insurance carrier:
- Does my health insurance plan include mental health benefits?
- Do I have a deductible? If so, what is it and have I met it yet?
- If I have a copay for sessions, how much is it?
- How many sessions does my plan cover?
- Do I need written approval (i.e., a referral) from my primary care physician in order for services to be covered?
- How much does my insurance pay for an out-of-network provider?
What’s the difference between using insurance versus paying out of pocket?
When you are using insurance to cover services, the therapist is required to establish medical necessity. This means that we will have to evaluate how your current symptoms are impacting your functioning and make a diagnosis. There may also be limitations on treatment (e.g., number of visits, length of session, etc.) as determined by your particular carrier. Insurance will not typically cover personal growth work.
I’m worried about cost. Do you offer sessions at a reduced fee?
Yes! Therapy doesn’t have to be inaccessible and unaffordable. We offer sliding scale fees based on your income to support your particular financial situation. Send us a message and let’s talk about how we can make therapy viable for you.
What if I need to cancel?
We appreciate at least 24 hours advance notice of cancellation, which can be done via e-mail at connect@bonsaicounseling.com or call/text at (916) 520-3041. Anything less than 24 hours or a no show/no call may result in a fee of $150.
Can we still meet while I’m traveling?
It depends on where you are going. If you are traveling within the state of California and have a private space to meet, absolutely! If you leave California, we will have to cancel your appointments until you return. Per our licensing board, the Board of Behavioral Sciences, we are only allowed to practice in the state(s) in which we are licensed.