Frequently Asked Questions
I have often thought of seeing a therapist, but concerned that I will be labeled, how does this work? My style is comprehensive and involves a conservative approach to diagnostic measures. Typically when you see a therapist a diagnosis is given within the first couple sessions. As a client, you have a right to know your diagnosis. The purpose of a diagnosis is to treat symptoms. A diagnosis is not a part of your personal identity. Symptoms are treatable. For instance, if you were diagnosed as Major Depressive Disorder, these symptoms can go into remission and you may no longer fit the criteria for that diagnosis. We also know that depression is a reoccurring medical illness and the diagnosis can change over time.
What is the purpose behind receiving a diagnosis? The reason why clinicians use a diagnosis is to identify symptoms that are causing psychological distress and/or maladaptive ways of coping. It is the foundation that clinicians use to develop treatment options. In addition, a diagnosis is used to provide a third party payer a category of symptoms that are being treated. If using insurance, a diagnosis and treatment plan is required in order for services to be paid. Sometimes, persons opt to pay for services out of pocket to avoid a diagnosis being disclosed. This is an individual choice that only you can decide what you are comfortable with.
Will I have to take medication? Not necessarily. Time will be spent exploring if a referral for a medication evaluation would be helpful. These are typically done by a psychiatrist or a nurse practitioner. Both have medical training and are able to prescribe medication. A medication evaluation is a comprehensive medical assessment to determine if medication would be useful in symptom relief while in therapy. We know that the best treatment for depression going into remission is a combination of therapy and medication management. Again, this is an individual choice and can be discussed during a therapy session. Topics that would be explored would be past experience using medication, medication compliance, as well as chronic medical conditions.
How long does therapy last? There are many variables that determine how long a person participates in therapy. My goal is to always be “working myself out of a job” to get people back on their feet and enjoying life. Sometimes people use therapy for situational stressors as a way to maintain good mental health. This is a way to have an objective source of support outside of family and friends. It really depends on what your needs are.
Is therapy confidential? Anything that you share with me in the context of a therapy session is personal and confidential. Ethics of privacy are held in high regard in terms of protecting client’s confidentiality. There are certain situations where information may be disclosed such as consent that you sign releasing information for coordination of treatment as well as with third party payers (insurance utilization). Other areas where a breech of confidentiality would be necessary are any disclosed plan or intention of harm to self or others, and the abuse or neglect of a minor.
What are your fees? My fee is $150 for a 50 minute session. If you are participating in a group that fee is $15 for the group. Fees are due at time of session.
Do you take insurance? If you are using health insurance to pay for services, check with me regarding whether I am in network or out of network with your carrier. If in network, I will submit for reimbursement on your behalf. If out of network, I will provide you a receipt that you can use to submit to insurance and you should also contact your insurance company to check on the following: What are your outpatient mental health benefits? How do you submit a claim for reimbursement for an out of network provider? Can you use my HRA or flexible spending account to pay for services? Do you have a deductible? Is your deductible combined with medical and behavioral benefits?
What forms to I need to fill out? You will find information on forms, along with a download link on this page.