FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What if I’m not sure what I want to work on yet?

That’s completely okay. You don’t need a clear agenda before starting. Therapy is often the space where clarity emerges. We’ll work together to understand what’s been coming up for you and identify what feels most important to focus on.

How do I know if therapy is right for me?
If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply curious about personal growth, therapy can provide a supportive space for reflection and change.

How do I schedule an appointment?

You have three options:

1. Complete the form below and we will contact you to schedule a consult call to ensure one of our therapist is the best fit for you.

2. Call or text (916) 209 - 0348 to express interest in our services.

3. Book a free Intro Call with the therapist that you resonate most with. Marisa Ronquillo LMFT or Ashana Chand APCC

What if I’m not sure I can afford therapy long-term?

This is a very real and valid concern. During your consultation, we can talk openly about fees, pacing, and what feels realistic for you. Therapy doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing to be meaningful.

Are you accepting new clients?

Yes! We currently have availability for both in-person and virtual appointments (must be physically located in California).

Who do you work with?

We work with adult individuals throughout all stages of life. Specialties include people who struggle with anxiety, people-pleasing, trauma/PTSD, and EMDR. If you're facing challenges beyond our listed specialties and feel we could be a good match, please reach out to discuss your needs.

What is holistic therapy?

Holistic therapy is a comprehensive approach to mental health treatment that addresses the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Unlike traditional therapy, which often focuses solely on psychological aspects, holistic therapy recognizes that mental health is interconnected with physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Techniques such as mindfulness are often used to enhance the mind-body connection, helping clients manage stress, anxiety, and other emotional challenges. Holistic therapy also focuses on prevention and integrates various therapeutic approaches to address underlying issues and promote long-term well-being. This approach helps clients develop healthier coping mechanisms and a deeper understanding of themselves. Read more here.

It’s my first time with therapy, what can I expect?

After our initial contact you’ll complete intake paperwork online prior to the first session.

When you reach the office, have a seat in the waiting room. Your therapist will be out to meet you when your session is scheduled to start. Our goal for the first session is to better understand what brought you to therapy and offer insight into how we can help you on your journey.

We will work together to determine the changes that will best support your progress. Therapy can be very active, involving guidance and homework, or more reflective, allowing you to explore your situation at your own pace. The approach will be tailored to be the most beneficial for you.

I’ve actually tried therapy before and it didn’t help. How is this different?

Many clients come to Insightful Roots Therapy after feeling stuck or disappointed by previous therapy experiences. Trauma-informed therapy focuses on the nervous system, not just insight or coping skills. If talk therapy alone didn’t create lasting change, a body-based, relational approach may feel very different.

How long does therapy last?

Sessions are typically 50 minutes long. Length of time in therapy varies on current stressors, barriers, motivation for change and ultimately goals.

I’m busy, what if I don’t have time for therapy?

Many clients start therapy while juggling work, family, and responsibilities. Therapy can actually create more capacity over time by reducing emotional overwhelm and mental load. We’ll work together to find a rhythm that fits your life.

What if I start therapy and realize I’m not ready?

You’re always in control of the process. Starting therapy doesn’t lock you into anything. Even one or two sessions can be clarifying, and it’s okay to pause or revisit therapy when the timing feels right.

What’s an associate therapist, and why does each therapist have a different rate?
Each therapist’s rate is based on their license, years of experience, and training.

• Marisa Ronquillo, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist ($200): She’s a trauma therapist with almost 9 years of experience and training in EMDR.

• Associate therapists ($140–$150): These are Registered Associate Professional Clinical Counselors. They have their master’s degrees and are earning their final supervised hours before full licensure. Both are supervised by Marisa and have worked in higher levels of care, like intensive outpatient and inpatient programs.

Every therapist here does focused, specialized work. The best fit comes down to what you want to work on, what times work for you, and who you click with. The free intro call helps you figure that out.

Why don’t you take insurance?
We’re a private-pay practice. You don’t need a diagnosis to start, and your insurance company doesn’t decide how many sessions you get or what you work on. If you choose to use out-of-network benefits, your superbill will include a diagnosis code. That’s how insurance works.

Can I use out-of-network benefits? Do you give a superbill?
Yes. Many PPO plans pay back part of each session. We give you a superbill, a receipt you send to your insurance. Use our out-of-network calculator (see above) to estimate what you’d get back. Some plans don’t pay for sessions with associate therapists, so check with your plan first.

What if my therapist isn’t a good fit?
Tell us! Fit matters a lot, and you won’t hurt anyone’s feelings. If someone else on our team is a better match, we’ll help you switch. If not, we’ll help you find someone who is.