Your Questions, Answered

  • I hold a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) and a Master of Science (MS) in Clinical Psychology and am a licensed psychotherapist in California. I have specialized in trauma-related conditions, personality disorders, and pathological abuse across a range of clinical and forensic settings.

    I have advanced training in complex trauma and hold certifications in Family Trauma, Complex Trauma, Personality Disorder Treatment (C-PD), and Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy. I was trained to administer the Hare Psychopathy Checklist–Revised (PCL-R), the international gold standard for psychopathy assessment, and I am formally trained in EMDR and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART).

    I am also featured as an expert in the Hulu docuseries Ted Bundy: Dialogue with the Devil, where I provided professional analysis on psychopathy and violent personality pathology.

    I am the author of multiple bestselling books, including:

    • The Nature and Nurture of Narcissism#1 Amazon New Release

    • Traumatic Cognitive DissonanceTop New Release in seven categories

    • Cruelty by NatureAmazon Top Seller

    • Fit for Off-DutyRequired reading at the FBI Academy, Quantico

  • No. Consultations and workshops are offered through my consulting practice, not my licensed clinical practice, and are not eligible for insurance reimbursement.

    If you are a California resident seeking psychotherapy, you may contact me directly using the subject line “Psychotherapy in California.” Therapy services are private pay only. Some PPO plans offer out-of-network reimbursement; if applicable, I can provide a superbill for possible partial reimbursement.

  • Yes. All consultations are strictly confidential.

  • After scheduling, you will receive a confirmation and a Zoom link by email 24–48 hours prior to your appointment. Please check your spam or junk folder. Missed appointments due to failure to locate the link cannot be rescheduled or extended.

  • Formal diagnosis is a clinical and legal process that requires direct evaluation of the individual being diagnosed. Clinicians cannot ethically or legally diagnose people who are not their patients.

    That said, a recorded diagnosis is not necessary for you to understand the relational dynamics or abuse patterns you are experiencing. Consultations focus on identifying enduring, pervasive behavioral patterns based on accurate descriptions you provide—often far more useful than a formal label.

  • Personality pathology is inconsistently recognized in legal systems, which limits the effectiveness of expert testimony in many cases. I may offer expert consultation or testimony on a remote basis, but outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Please contact me directly for details.

  • No. Recording is not permitted. In the past, recordings have been misused in legal and interpersonal conflicts. I recommend taking notes and scheduling follow-up consultations as needed.

  • Yes, with clear boundaries. The purpose must be to gain understanding—not to gain emotional, financial, or legal leverage. Any attempt to manipulate or weaponize the consultation will result in immediate termination of the session.

  • Yes. If I believe there are important factors you need to understand about your own role in the dynamic, I will address them directly and respectfully.

  • No. I do not provide legal advice. I can, however, suggest resources that others have found helpful.

  • My consultation fee is $365 per hour.

    For context, in 2010, the industry standard rate for a master’s-level therapist in California was approximately $150–$160 per hour. Since then, rates across healthcare and professional services have increased substantially due to inflation, rising overhead, and increased demand for specialized expertise.

    My fee reflects:

    • A doctoral-level education (PsyD)

    • Years of specialized experience

    • Rare and highly specific expertise in personality disorders, pathological abuse, psychopathy assessment, and complex trauma

    • Advanced training and certifications that are uncommon even among experienced clinicians

    • The consultative, educational, and analytical nature of my work, which differs from standard models

    My services are designed for individuals seeking high-level clarity, accurate conceptualization, and evidence-based insight into complex relational and psychological dynamics. For those needs, this rate is reasonable, consistent with comparable doctoral-level specialty consultations, and reflective of the depth and precision required for this work.

  • Working with me is structured, direct, and clarity-focused. My role is not to take sides, assign blame, or provide emotional validation at the expense of truth. It is to help you understand what is actually happening in your situation—accurately and without distortion.

    Consultations are thoughtful, evidence-based, and respectful. I ask clear questions, focus on patterns rather than isolated incidents, and prioritize insight that reduces confusion and self-doubt. My approach is compassionate, but not permissive of manipulation, minimization, or misuse of the process.

    Clients who benefit most from working with me are those who are genuinely seeking clarity and relief. My goal is to help you leave with a clearer mind, stronger footing, and a more grounded path forward.

  • If you are a California resident and are interested in psychotherapy, please complete the Contact form on my website and use the subject line “Psychotherapy in California.” This allows me to determine whether your needs are appropriate for my clinical practice and whether I currently have availability.

    Please note that I am not in-network with any insurance providers. All psychotherapy services are private pay. In some cases, PPO insurance plans offer out-of-network reimbursement; if applicable, I can provide a superbill for you to submit to your insurance for possible partial reimbursement.

    Availability for psychotherapy is limited and separate from consultation services.