Frequently Asked Questions
The Basics
-
Individual therapy sessions are $225 for 50 minutes.
-
While I’m not in-network with insurance, I can guide you in using your out-of-network benefits.
What does that mean?
Out-of-network benefits allow you to see the therapist you choose even if they’re not in your insurance network. Afterwards, you can get reimbursed for part of the cost. Here’s how it works:
You pay for each session upfront, and I provide a superbill (a detailed receipt) that you can submit to your insurance.
After you meet your out-of-network deductible, your insurance may reimburse a percentage of the session fee, which is often between 50% and 80%.
These benefits give you more flexibility to work with the right therapist for you, not just the ones your insurance picks.
It’s a good idea to check with your insurance provider to see what your specific out-of-network coverage looks like.
-
I offer both virtual and in-person sessions. For in-person therapy, my office is located at 1460 Maria Lane, Suite #300, in Walnut Creek, CA. I also meet with clients online across California, making it easy to fit therapy into your schedule.
-
Sessions are typically 50 minutes long. For EMDR, I also offer extended 90-minute sessions to allow more space for processing. If you’re interested in a longer session, just let me know, and we’ll adjust the time and fee accordingly.
-
We’ll meet once a week, at the same time each week. This kind of consistency makes a big difference. It helps build a sense of safety and trust, which is what allows us to do the deeper work that leads to real change.
-
48 hours’ notice: Life happens. I get it. If you need to cancel or reschedule, please give me at least 24 hours’ notice so I can offer the spot to someone else.
Late cancellations and No Shows: Cancellations with less than 48 hours’ notice - or missed sessions without notice - are charged the full session fee.
Rescheduling: Need to switch your time? I’ll do my best to accommodate, as long as you reach out ahead of time and I have availability.
-
You can fill out the form on my contact page, email emily@emilykittstherapy.com, or call/text 415-323-0703 to set up an appointment.
Therapy With Me
-
The first session is really about getting to know each other. We’ll talk about what’s bringing you in, what you’re hoping to work on, and any background that feels helpful to share. It’s also your time to ask questions and get a feel for how I work. It’s totally normal to feel a little nervous meeting someone new. My goal is to help you feel comfortable and supported from the start.
-
Just fill out the intake forms before our first session, and you’ll be all set. You don’t need to prepare anything else. Come as you are. If there’s something on your mind or a topic you’d like to focus on, feel free to bring it in. But no pressure to have a plan unless you want to. I’ll have a few questions to get us started, and we’ll go from there.
-
It really depends on what you’re hoping to work on. Some people come in for a few months to focus on a specific challenge, while others stay longer to explore deeper patterns or ongoing goals. We’ll check in regularly about how things are going, and you’ll never be pushed to stay longer than feels right or end before you’re ready.
Questions You Might Have
-
Those are some of the most common reasons people come to see me. But no, that’s not all I treat. I’m also trained in supporting clients through depression, life transitions, and I take a trauma-informed approach in my work. I often use EMDR as part of my work with clients processing trauma or unresolved experiences.
-
Education:
Washington University, St. Louis, MO: Bachelor's Degree in Psychology
The Wright Institute, Berkeley, CA: (SJSU) 2015: Master’s in Counseling Psychology
License:
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT): 2017 - Present
California License LMFT99763
Clinical Experience:
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist - Discovery Counseling Center, Danville, CA - non-profit community mental health center providing culturally appropriate and accessible counseling services to adolescents, individuals, couples and families
Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, Rainbow Community Center, Concord, CA - worked with LGBTQIA2S+ youth
Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, School-Based - Concord High School, Concord, CA - worked with juniors/seniors supporting academic and emotional well-being
Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, School-Based - San Mateo High School, San Mateo, CA - worked with teens in grades 9-12 and co-facilitated therapy groups
Marriage & Family therapist Trainee - Pyramid Alternatives, Pacifica, CA - a clinic supporting mental health, substance abuse and violence prevention
Specialized Treatment Methods:
EMDR - Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
This evidence-based therapy helps people process and heal from past trauma or distressing experiences by targeting how those memories are stored in the brain. It can reduce the intensity of painful memories, so they feel less overwhelming and easier to move forward from.
-
I do.
CAMFT - California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists
East Bay CAMFT - East Bay Chapter of California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists
SCV CAMFT - Santa Clara Valley Chapter of California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists
Board Member of BAPTI - Bay Area Psychotherapy Institute
Mission driven to provide affordable and responsive mental health services to benefit the community while facilitating the training of private-practice psychotherapists within a community of support.
Ready to Book A Free Consultation?
At Emily Kitts Therapy in Walnut Creek, I offer one-on-one counseling that helps you move through anxiety, stress, and relationship challenges with clarity and support. I also offer virtual therapy across California.