FAQ & Contact
Stefanie Funke, LMFT in West Los Angeles
How do I start therapy?
Contact me and we will set up a time to talk on the phone. We will speak a bit about what brings you to therapy and what you hope to get from therapy. From there, we will set up a first appointment.
What is gestalt therapy?
Gestalt therapy is an approach that promotes self-awareness—of what you are doing, how you are doing it, and how you can change yourself, and at the same time, to learn to accept and value yourself. The emphasis is on what is being done, thought, and felt in the moment, rather than on what was, might be, could be, or should be. Increased awareness leads to acceptance (self and otherwise) and actions more reflective of one’s values and desires.
Where do I park when I see you?
Metered and unmetered parking is available on the streets surrounding the building. There is a parking garage attached to the building where you can park. The parking garage accepts cash only. (I do not validate.)
Is it possible to avoid stairs when seeing you?
Yes. If you use the south elevator to get to the third floor, you can avoid stairs while accessing my office. If you park in the parking garage attached to the building, park on the roof; there are no steps between the parking garage and the building on that level.
Do you work online?
Yes. Due to the covid-19 crisis, I have closed my office and am seeing people via the internet and phone. I do not know when I will reopen my office; I am accepting new clients all the time, so please get in touch with me.
How long will therapy take?
Unfortunately, I cannot give a straightforward answer to this. This simple answer is as long as necessary, which is not especially helpful. At regular intervals, perhaps every six weeks, we will undertake a review of how therapy is progressing, where we are going, and whether we need to work together.
What about confidentiality?
I practice strict confidentiality. Your attendance to and conduct in therapy are private. You can share whatever you want with whomever you want; I will keep it all private. Sometimes, for billing purposes, your attendance will have to be shared with outside services. I will not do so without your knowledge and express permission.
Some exceptions to confidentiality exist. State law requires that mental health workers are legally mandated to report child abuse, elder and dependent adult abuse, and serious threats of physical violence to another person. These laws apply whether or not your counselor believes that making a report is in your best interest therapeutically. In addition, mental health workers are legally allowed to take whatever steps are necessary to prevent a threatened suicide, including breaking confidentiality. A 2015 California law also requires mental health workers to report the knowing use or sharing of child pornography.
Do you accept insurance?
I accept Kaiser Permanente insurance. I can provide paperwork for reimbursement from other insurance plans. Contact me for more information.
How Do I Get Started?
Introductory Call
We talk about what brings you to therapy.
Book Appointment
We will work to find a time that works for us both.
1st Session!
We will meet and discuss what brings you to therapy and how I can help.
Contact Me
Ask a question or book an appointment below.
For emergencies, call 911 or visit your nearest hospital