About Matthew Verdun, PsyD
Thank you for taking the time to visit my site. I work from a Solution Focused, CBT/DBT and Emotionally Focused lens with individuals and couples. I have worked with hundreds of individuals and couples to improve their mental health and/or relationship functioning over the years. I hold a MS in Counseling and PsyD in Applied Clinical Psychology and am licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist and Psychologist in California.
What I Treat/Who I Work With
I work with a variety of clients and try to meet each person's unique needs. My practice focuses on older teens and adults or couples. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, and trauma. I also work with couples seeking to improve communication or improve their overall relationship.
My practice is completely telehealth so as long as you are in a safe confidential place, I can see you where you are.
Articles I'm Quoted in Or About My Work
FAQs
Is psychotherapy right for me?
Many people benefit from psychotherapy. There are many different types of psychotherapy with different goals. Some types of therapy aid people in gaining insight into patterns of thinking, attachment, or behavior. Other types are skills based therapies where the person learns new methods interacting and dealing with people and the world around them. I practice a mixture of attachment and skill oriented approaches.
Are there downsides to psychotherapy?
People come to therapy with a variety of life experiences and insights. Sometimes talking about those life experiences can be painful. Making change can also result in a shift in the way a person interacts with others, which can be uncomfortable. I view it as my job to provide guidance and support while the client decides what they are able to do on their journey to healing or recovery.
How much does psychotherapy cost?
Each therapist sets their own rate based on experience, training, and cost of living. I try to keep my rates reasonable in order to make mental health treatment accessible. I offer a free 15-30 minute consultation to decide if we are a good fit to work together. I charge $200 per session for individuals or couples therapy. Sessions are 53 minutes.
Do you accept health insurance?
I am paneled with HealthNet/MHN, Carelon (Kaiser of Northern California's mental health contractor), Cigna, and Optum/United Healthcare. I am also paneled with some of Blue Shield's plans, but most of their mental health services are contracted through Magellan and I am not contracted with them. Copays and deductibles apply for all insurance based services.
Does my health insurance cover psychotherapy?
Most health insurance companies provide some form of mental health treatment, but there are limitations. Kaiser requires patients to have an authorization for psychotherapy in order for them to pay for your treatment. All health insurance companies I am paneled with require me to provide a mental health diagnosis listed in the current Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). While I fully appreciate that relationship stresses have a significant impact on mental health, relational issues are not in the DSM and are not covered by insurance.