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Monica Burford Sacramento
California

Couples and Individual Therapy in Sacramento & Online Across California

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I schedule an appointment?

You can schedule a consultation directly through the buttons on this website or by sending an email. I recommend start with a brief phone consultation to ensure my services align with your needs.

Do you offer crisis services?

No. I do not provide crisis or emergency services. If you or your partner are in immediate danger or experiencing a crisis, please contact local emergency services or a crisis hotline right away.

What can I expect in the first session?

In our first meeting, we will discuss what brings you to therapy, your history, and your goals for our work together. It is an opportunity for us to see if we are a good fit and for you to ask any questions about my approach.

Do you take insurance?

I currently accept Aetna through Headway.

*Couples please note that I prefer longer, 75-90 min sessions for couples, however, insurance will cover 50-60 minutes only. This means that you'd have to pay your copay for the first 50-60 minutes, then pay out of pocket for the additional time we meet ($56 for 75 minute sessions- and $76 for 90 minute sessions).

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If you have a different insurance plan, I am out-of-network for you, and I can provide a superbill, an itemized receipt you submit to your insurance company for possible out-of-network reimbursement. Many plans reimburse a portion of out-of-network therapy, though the amount varies. It's worth calling the member services number on your card and asking what your plan covers for out-of-network outpatient mental health.

How do I get started with couples therapy in Sacramento?

Getting started is simple. Reach out through my contact page to schedule a free consultation. We'll use that time to talk about what's bringing you in, answer any questions you have, and see if we're a good fit.

Do you offer online sessions?

Yes, I offer secure, HIPAA-compliant telehealth services for clients located anywhere in California. Online therapy is convenient and just as effective for many individuals and couples.

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How long does couples therapy usually take?

It depends on your goals, the patterns you’re working on, and how consistently you practice between sessions. Some couples notice meaningful change within a few months. Others choose longer-term support to keep building connection. We’ll talk openly about your progress so you know what to expect.

How effective is the Gottman Method for couples therapy?

The Gottman Method is one of the most well-researched approaches to couples therapy, developed from over 40 years of research on what makes relationships work. It helps couples build friendship, manage conflict more effectively, and create shared meaning. Many couples notice meaningful shifts within a few months of consistent work.

How do I know if couples therapy could help us?

You may want support if you keep having the same arguments, feel emotionally distant, struggle to communicate, or notice trust starting to wear down. Couples therapy can also help when conflict escalates quickly or you want to strengthen your relationship before things get harder.

What kinds of couples do you work with?

I work with couples who:

  • Still care deeply about each other

  • Feel stuck in recurring conflict or emotional distance

  • Struggle to communicate without things escalating or shutting down

  • Want a thoughtful, research‑informed approach

  • Are motivated to understand their patterns and rebuild connection

If you’re looking for clarity, emotional safety, and a structured path forward, you’re in the right place.

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Can virtual couples therapy work well?

Yes. Many couples do well online. Virtual sessions can make it easier to fit therapy into your schedule while still giving you a focused, supportive space to work on communication, conflict, and connection. If you live in California, online therapy may be a strong option for you.

What are your rates?

90 minute initial intake- $300

45 minutes $190

60 minute session- $210

75 minute session- $245

90 minute session- $260

How do cancellations or rescheduling work?

I have a 24 hour cancellation policy. No show or late cancellations incur in a fee of $175. 

How does online therapy work?

All sessions are held virtually through a secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform. You'll receive a link before each session and can join from anywhere in California using a computer, tablet, or phone. Research consistently shows online therapy is as effective as in-person work for most concerns, and it makes consistent weekly sessions realistic for people with demanding schedules. If I determine that in person therapy would be more appropriate for your needs, I will recommend you seek in-person therapy.

Can virtual couples therapy work well?

Yes. Many couples do well online. Virtual sessions can make it easier to fit therapy into your schedule while still giving you a focused, supportive space to work on communication, conflict, and connection. If you live in California, online therapy may be a strong option for you.

Do you work with clients outside California?

I'm licensed in California and can work with clients located anywhere in the state. Licensing laws require that you be physically in California at the time of our sessions.

How long are sessions, and how often do we meet?

Individual sessions are 60 minutes. Couples sessions are 75 or 90 minutes, since relational work generally needs more time to get somewhere meaningful. Most clients meet weekly, particularly at the start, since consistency is what builds momentum. We decrease session frequency as you make progress to your goal. 

What is the free consultation, and what happens during it?

The consultation is a no-pressure conversation to see whether we're a good fit before you commit to anything. You can share what's bringing you in, ask questions about how I work, and get a feel for the process. Couples consultations are 45 minutes and individual consultations are 25 minutes. Both are free and held over video.

What happens if one of you feels unsure about starting therapy?

That’s very common. You do not both need to feel fully ready before you begin. We can slow the pace, talk through concerns, and make the first step feel more manageable. Often, starting the conversation brings a little relief right away.

Are there situations you don't work with?

Yes. To make sure every couple gets the quality of care they need, I don't work with cases of infidelity, or with couples where one partner is currently experiencing active substance dependence. Both require specialized treatment approaches that fall outside my scope, and continuing anyway wouldn't serve you well. 

What approaches do you use in couples therapy?

I use evidence-based methods, including the Gottman Method and TEAM-CBT. That means your sessions are structured, practical, and focused on helping you understand your patterns, reduce painful cycles, and rebuild connection.

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