FAQ
WHAT ARE EVIDENCE-BASED TREATMENTS AND WHY ARE THEY IMPORTANT?
Evidence-based treatments are those that have research and scientific evidence which has shown them to be effective. These types of treatments use what research has found to be the best possible treatment methods, taking into consideration several factors such as patient and family characteristics, beliefs, and preferences. These (and cognitive-behavioral) treatments often measure symptoms over time to track treatment progress and demonstrate effectiveness.
WHAT IS COGNITIVE-BEHAVIORAL THERAPY?
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that emphasizes use of short-term and solution-focused interventions to decrease mental and behavioral health symptoms. While CBT involves regular collaboration between the therapist and each child/family, the therapist's role often is to teach each child and/or family skills which they may use out-of-session to help decrease symptoms and concerns. CBT therapists also often collaborate with others (i.e., school personnel, other family members or caregivers), as permitted by release of information, to obtain information about each child and his/her concerns, and to implement strategies in multiple environments, as necessary, able, and appropriate.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT WHEN I CALL TO MAKE AN INITIAL APPOINTMENT?
When you call to make your child's first appointment, I will ask for information about the reasons you are seeking treatment for your child. I also will ask for some brief demographic information, and for your insurance information (if you would like to use your insurance - to be able to verify benefits and determine whether or not pre-authorizations or similar may be required prior to your child's first visit).
IS HEALTH INSURANCE ACCEPTED?
Insurance may be used to cover costs of treatment, and families may choose to use their insurance coverage for their child's treatment.
If I am an in-network provider for your insurance, I typically submit claims directly to the insurance company and invoice families (if appropriate) once I receive an explanation of benefits back from the insurance company.
For families insured by a company for which I am out-of-network, I work with families to develop a contract establishing a self-pay agreement between myself and each child/family. If families decide to use their out-of-network benefits (and are able to do so), I may be able to submit out-of-network claims on their behalf, or to provide them with an invoice to submit directly to their insurance company.
IS THERE ANYTHING I NEED TO DO BEFORE MY CHILD'S FIRST APPOINTMENT?
Before each child's first appointment (once it is scheduled), I will send each family a packet of forms to complete and bring into the first visit. Please keep in mind it may be a good idea for all families to contact your medical insurance company prior to your child's first visit so that you fully understand what coverage/benefits your specific plan may (or may not) include.
HOW LONG DOES EACH THERAPY SESSION LAST?
Initial therapy visits often last longer (approximately 60-90 minutes) than follow-up visits because I discuss confidentiality and answer any questions regarding treatment that each child/family may have, get background information about each child and family, and also attempt to get to know each child/family and learn more about their goals for treatment. Follow-up visits typically last approximately 45 minutes to one hour, depending on each child's and family's needs.
HOW IS MY PRIVACY PROTECTED?
I take privacy and confidentiality very seriously. In most cases, information discussed with a psychologist is protected by confidentiality. There are certain limits to confidentiality that I will discuss with you at your first visit during the consent to treatment process. Please do not hesitate to ask me any questions you may have, as I want you to feel comfortable with me and with the treatment process.