FAQ

I’m available to meet with you Monday through Thursday from 10 am to 7 pm.

I accept the following primary insurance plans upon verification: Aetna, Cigna, Optum, UMR and United Healthcare, as well as out-of-network insurance benefits.

For out of network options, you will pay my full fee upfront and then I can provide you with a “superbill” (similar to a receipt) to file a claim for potential reimbursement to you by your insurance company.

Health savings accounts (HSA) are also an option, but please make sure all information is up to date with the company.

Let’s set up that initial appointment. Call (510) 383-6071, and we can start with a free 15-minute consultation, so I can hear more about you and make sure that we are a good fit. Therapy is like dating because we want to make sure you and I are a good match.

If I don’t answer your call, I might be in session, so please leave me a message, and I’ll call you back as soon as possible. You can also email me at patrique_addison@outlook.com.

I have a 24-hour cancellation policy. All sessions require a 24-hour notice of cancellation. If you fail to cancel the session at least 24 hours in advance, I will charge you for the entire session.

My usual clients are mainly Teens and Women – typically 14 to 45+ years old.

No worries! Most people find that the first session can be nerve-racking initially, but within minutes, that anxiety decreases, and we can talk like two friends.

We’ll have a conversation where I’ll mostly be listening and asking questions to get a clear picture of you, the issues causing you emotional pain, and where you see yourself in the future.

We discuss your past, present, and future in-depth during our first few sessions. We will discuss your experiences, how they impact you now, and where you see yourself by the end of our time together.

At the start of the session, we’ll do a brief check-in and discuss any homework, if given. Then, we’ll dive right into any challenges you’ve had during the past week or just anything on your mind. I’m a go-with-the-flow person, so it may look exactly like how the session works.

We’ll explore and process your feelings. Then, we’ll focus on healing strategies, coping skills, and leading you toward having your best life. You might receive homework to help you practice these skills and techniques.

We’ll always work on your goals and whatever you want to bring to the session each week. We will have structured and natural conversational sessions depending on your needs. Also, I love to laugh! We’ll find moments to laugh together for sure. I may even laugh at myself.

Good news and bad news! Most of the homework I give is over 90% short video or audio assignments with a smidge of written stuff here and there.

Most people report the homework doesn’t feel like work and is quite enjoyable. It won’t take up too much of your time. When not in session with me, I design homework to help you continue self-care and healing.

Sometimes, the homework will be to reflect and process what came out of your last session.

Guess what? The beauty of online therapy is that you can come as you are. I’ve seen several clients show up with no make-up, bonnets, head scarfs, T-shirts and shorts, PJs, and bathrobes. Wear whatever makes you feel super relaxed and comfortable.

As long as you’re wearing clothes, we’re good! There is no judgment here. Plus, if you think I’m not wearing hot pink fuzzy slippers under my desk, you’d be wrong (don’t judge me) – *giving you the side-eye.

I use an integrative approach to therapy, including CBT (Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy), Narrative, Attachment-based, Mindfulness-based, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused, and Strength-based therapy.

I have a relational, supportive style of treating you to help you become the best version of yourself. Using these approaches, I will help you meet those goals and decrease the symptoms causing you stress.

I received a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Mills College in Oakland, CA, in 2013. I also received a Master’s degree in Social Work from Widener University in 2018.

Since 2014, I’ve provided coaching and counseling to adults, adolescents, and families. I have experience working with diverse clients in various mental health settings, including schools, residential treatment centers, and the community.

There is no specific time frame for therapy because it can vary between a few months to a few years. It all depends on you – on your engagement and progress in sessions. Ultimately, the decision is always yours.

Ideally, we would explore thoughts and feelings about ending together. Sometimes, clients feel impulses to stop when difficult emotions or themes arise.

As your therapist, I can help you explore those feelings popping up and work through the decision with the understanding that you can come back at any time.

I take your confidentiality very seriously.

There are only three exceptions to confidentiality. They fall under a clause known as “mandated reporting.” Therefore, by law, if you disclose that you’re going to harm yourself, harm someone else, or you know of someone unable to advocate for themselves (like a minor, an elder, or someone who is developmentally unable to self-advocate) who’s in danger, I must make a report. Otherwise, my lips are sealed.

Confidentiality for teens comes up a lot. If I think it’s helpful, I will encourage teens to share certain information with their parents, but I will not share what their teen shares with me in session (unless they are in danger).

Yes, going to therapy helped me understand myself better and my goals, heal past traumas, and increase my self-esteem. Therapy also helps me become a better therapist and understand the viewpoint from the client’s perspective.

I still return to therapy from time to time. Therapists are not immune to needing a tune-up.

I am not here to judge but to help. For me to help, I need a clear understanding of what is going on in your life. Sometimes, this means sharing things you never share with anyone. Therapy is a safe place to talk about those things.

Throughout our work together, we will work toward having you achieve a serene outlook on life. At times, the therapy process might be hard and bring up stuff you might not want to discuss.

We will be doing tons of mindfulness and relaxing activities to help you along the way, in addition to helping solve issues in your life. In the end, most people report feeling a strong sense of serenity after a few sessions of working together.

• Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation
• Pronounced ‘ray-key’ and translates to: Universal Life Energy
• Helps to align the body’s own natural energy
• Works on all levels: physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual
• Can help alleviate symptoms of: stress, anxiety, depression, insomnia, chronic pain, emotional pain, and many other conditions
• Is not a cure or replacement for traditional medical care
• Can be performed remotely with Distance Reiki via Zoom or telehealth format
• Each virtual session includes: discussing your intention for the session and your current physical/mental/emotional status, a gentle guided meditation, Reiki healing energy sent to you, and check-in after the session

Yes, Reiki is 100% safe. It does not have any side effects. It works only for the person’s greatest and highest good.

Reiki is a complimentary and not an alternative to your current medical plan.

Supports continuing to work with your medical doctor or holistic practitioner with any medications you have been prescribed.

Reiki Practitioners do not diagnose nor prescribe.

According to the American Hospital Association, over 800 American hospitals offer Reiki as part of standard hospital services. it’s now being offered in many hospice and cancer centers around the world to assist in pain relief and many other health concerns. 

A person does not need to believe in the effectiveness of Reiki for it to work. Consent is the only factor.

But keep in mind, animals are not concerned with belief systems, and Reiki can benefit them as well.

Anyone can learn Reiki. The ability to learn Reiki energy healing is a natural human ability that anyone can easily acquire.

The practice of Reiki is not affiliated with any philosophy or religion.

Anyone, regardless of their religious affiliation or faith can learn Reiki.

At this time, Reiki is not covered by insurance companies. The fee for one 60 minute Reiki session is $155.

Package Rates:

(2) 60 minute full Reiki sessions: $222

(3) 60 minute full Reiki sessions: $333

(4) 60 minute full Reiki sessions: $444

(5) 60 minute full Reiki sessions: $555