Frequently Asked Questions

What issues does couples therapy help with?

Couples therapy can help with communication problems, recurring conflict, emotional disconnection, trust issues, and healing after an affair. At Novara Counseling in San Diego, we use evidence-based methods, including the Gottman Method, to help partners improve understanding, rebuild trust, and strengthen their relationship. Learn More

How long does marriage counseling take to work?

The length of couples counseling varies based on your goals and relationship needs. Many couples begin noticing improvements within a few sessions. For deeper work, including conflict patterns or affair recovery, therapy may last several months. We tailor therapy to your relationship needs to support lasting, meaningful change. Learn More

What issues does individual therapy help with?

Individual therapy supports anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, stress, self-esteem issues, trauma, and life transitions. Together we work on increasing self-awareness, developing coping skills, and creating healthier and long lasting patterns. Learn More

Do you offer virtual therapy in California?

Yes, we provide secure Telehealth sessions for individuals and couples located anywhere in California. Virtual therapy is effective for anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and life transitions.

What can I expect during my first therapy session?

Your first session focuses on understanding your goals and concerns. For couples, the clinician meets with both partners to explore communication patterns and strengths. For individuals, we begin identifying emotional patterns, challenges, and the direction you want your healing to go.

How often do therapy sessions occur?

Most clients attend weekly sessions, which allows progress to build consistently. Some prefer biweekly sessions and some prefer to do once a month check ins. For better results, it is recommended to start with a consistent and more frequent schedule and then taper down as you see progress. Intensive couples sessions are also available for deeper work. Learn More

What types of therapy does Novara Counseling specialize in?

Novara Counseling specializes in couples therapy, marriage counseling, affair recovery, communication skills, and emotional connection. We also provide individual therapy for adults and teens dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, self-esteem challenges, and life transitions. Our approach integrates evidence-based methods such as the Gottman Method, CBT, DBT, and psychodynamic therapy to support meaningful and lasting change. Learn More

Is couples therapy effective for affair recovery?

Yes. Affair recovery is one of the key specialties at Novara counseling. Our structured and supportive approach helps couples understand the impact of the betrayal, rebuild emotional and relational safety, restore trust, and strengthen their foundation for long-term connection. We guide partners through each phase of the healing process with clarity and compassion. Learn More

Do you accept insurance for therapy?

Novara Counseling does not work with any insurance companies directly and we are out-of-network providers. Many clients receive partial reimbursement through their insurance by submitting a superbill. We provide superbills and also offer Mentaya, a tool that helps clients check benefits and submit claims for potential reimbursement. Learn More

Is therapy worth it for couples who argue a lot?

Yes. Frequent arguments often signal unmet needs, miscommunication, or deeper emotional patterns. Couples therapy helps partners understand each other more clearly and break out of negative cycles. Learn More

Do you offer culturally sensitive therapy?

Yes. Clinicians at Novara Counseling are familiar with multicultural and immigrant family dynamics. We offer culturally informed therapy for adults, teens, and couples who want a therapist who understands their background and values. Learn More

How do I schedule a consultation?

You can schedule a free consultation directly through our website or through the Contact page. During the consultation, we discuss your needs and determine whether we are the right fit for you. To learn more about the first steps and schedule your consultation click here.