FAQ | Ruben Velazquez, LMFT — Therapy in San Francisco

Question 1

How do I know if therapy is right for me?

Accepted Answer

Therapy is a good fit for anyone who wants to better understand themselves, navigate a difficult period, or make meaningful changes in their life. You don't need to be in crisis to benefit. Many clients come to therapy during transitions, periods of stress, or simply when they feel something is off — even if they can't name exactly what.

Question 2

How do I know if coaching is right for me?

Accepted Answer

Coaching may be a good fit if you're feeling stuck, want to clarify your goals, or are looking for structured support to move forward in a specific area of your life. Unlike therapy, coaching is forward-focused and does not address mental health diagnoses or trauma processing. If you're unsure whether therapy or coaching is the better fit, we can discuss that during a free consultation.

Question 3

What is the difference between therapy and coaching?

Accepted Answer

Therapy is a licensed clinical service that addresses mental health concerns, emotional healing, and psychological patterns — including anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship difficulties. It is regulated by state licensing boards and follows ethical and legal standards of care. 
Coaching is a goal-oriented, forward-focused service that supports personal and professional development. It does not diagnose or treat mental health conditions. Both can be valuable depending on what you're looking for. As a licensed therapist who also offers coaching, I can help you determine which approach best fits your needs.

Question 4

What happens during the first session?

Accepted Answer

We'll talk about what brought you in, what you're hoping to get from therapy, and any questions you have about the process. It's also an opportunity for you to get a sense of whether working together feels like a good fit. There's no pressure to share more than you're comfortable with.

Question 5

How long does therapy take?

Accepted Answer

The length of therapy varies depending on your goals and what you're working through. Some clients find meaningful progress in a focused session engagement. Others prefer ongoing work over a longer period. We'll discuss your goals early on and revisit them regularly so therapy stays purposeful and aligned with what you need.

Question 6

How often will we meet?

Accepted Answer

Most clients begin with weekly sessions, which provides consistency and momentum early in the process. As you progress, we may shift to bi-weekly or monthly sessions depending on your goals and circumstances. Session frequency is always a collaborative decision.

Question 7

What are your fees?

Accepted Answer

50-Minute Individual Sessions $210
 50-Minute Couples Counseling $250 
90-Minute Couples Counseling $480
Coaching & Consulting - Price upon request

Question 8

Do you accept insurance?

Accepted Answer

I’m an out-of-network provider and do not bill insurance directly. For psychotherapy, I can provide a superbill, and I partner with Thrizer to help simplify checking benefits and submitting for possible reimbursement.

Many PPO plans include out-of-network mental health benefits, but coverage and reimbursement vary by plan and are not guaranteed. Coaching services are typically not covered by insurance.

Question 9

What is a superbill?

Accepted Answer

A superbill is an itemized receipt that includes the diagnostic and procedure codes your insurance company needs to process an out-of-network reimbursement claim. I provide these upon request. Your insurance company can walk you through how to submit one.

Question 10

Do you offer telehealth sessions?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Sessions are held via secure telehealth video.

Question 11

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

I ask for at least 24 hours notice to cancel or reschedule a session. Sessions cancelled with less than 24 hours notice will be charged the full session fee.

Question 12

Is everything I share confidential?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Confidentiality is a cornerstone of the therapeutic relationship. What you share in session stays between us, with a few legally mandated exceptions — such as imminent risk of harm to yourself or others, or situations involving child or elder abuse. I will explain these limits clearly at the start of our work together.

What to Expect

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