FAQ

A: A psychologist is an individual who obtained a doctorate degree in psychology with a heavy focus on psychological assessment and therapy. A mental health counselor is a master’s level clinician who primarily delivers therapy. A psychiatrist is an individual who earned a medical degree and specialized in psychiatry. While some psychiatrists provide therapy, they primarily prescribe psychotropic medications.

A: The relationship between clients and their therapist has been found to be one of the most important tools in therapy. The relationship alone can alleviate even some of the most distressing symptoms. While your therapist will likely be teaching some of the tools that can be read in a self-help book, you will also be forming the essential therapeutic relationship with your professional. Additionally, a therapist can tailor the approach and treatment based on the individual needs of their clients, whereas a self-help book targets broad concerns.

A: The therapeutic relationship has been found to be one of the most important tools in therapy. We encourage you to have two or three sessions with your therapist before deciding if they are the right professional to help you. We are always open to feedback and willing to modifying our approach based on our clients’ needs. If you decide the match is not ideal, we will be happy to give you a referral, as your treatment and well-being are our main priorities.

A: The focus will be on getting to know each other and building trust, which will be the foundation of our work together. Additionally, we will want to gather the relevant background information and presenting problems that bring you to therapy. Together we will discuss therapy goals and how to help you get there.

A: One of the hardest steps is making the initiative to call to get help. The time it takes for symptoms to improve is different for each client. Your therapist will be monitoring your symptoms throughout treatment and will be discussing your progress with you regularly.

A: We are currently in network with Blue Cross Blue Shield/Florida Blue, New Directions, Optum, Oscar Health, UMR, and United Healthcare (UHC/UBH). We are currently in the process of becoming in network with several other insurance providers, including Cigna, Magellan, and Tricare. In the meantime we can work with your insurance carrier to verify your out of network coverage.

A: We gladly accept self-pay clients. If at any time during treatment you should obtain or wish to use insurance that our practice accepts, you may begin using insurance.

A: Yes, we accept a variety of credit cards.

A: We have evening hours as we know it can be difficult juggling work and making time for appointments.

A: All therapy sessions are conducted via a secure, HIPAA-compliant and easy-to-use telehealth platform. We are not providing in-person therapy at this time in order to ensure our clients’ and staff's safety against COVID-19.

A: If your therapist believes you need psychotropic medications, they will discuss the potential benefits with you. You will be provided a referral to a medication prescriber for you to further discuss benefits and side effects, should you choose to follow the recommendation.

A: We are ethically and legally bound to keep what is discussed in therapy confidential; however, there are some limits to confidentiality required by law that will be discussed with you during your first session.

A: We provide psychological assessment and therapy to adolescents and adults from all backgrounds and lifestyles in the state of Florida. Our specialties include depression, anxiety, sleep, situational stress, adjustment issues, relationship issues, substance use, trauma, and more.

A: You and your therapist will work together to achieve your therapy goals that you created with your therapist during your first session. Your therapist will periodically provide suggestions and recommendations. It is our job to actively listen and provide a safe, supportive and judgment-free space. While your therapist is there for support and guidance, you are ultimately the one who will be taking charge in making necessary changes and adjustments to your life. We are always open to feedback and willing to modifying our approach based on our clients’ needs, as your treatment and well-being are our main priorities.

A: Appointments are typically anywhere from 45 to 60 minutes.

A: Typically we will meet once per week. As symptoms are improving and treatment goals are being met, sessions may be more spaced out to foster independence.

A: Self-pay sessions cost $150 per therapy hour. If you are using insurance, you are responsible for the copayment or deductible amount as required by your insurance provider. Payment will be collected at the time of service.

A: We value the time we have put aside to see you; therefore, we do not double book appointments. If you are not able to keep your appointment, we would appreciate a 24-business hour notice. There is a charge of $50 for missed appointments or cancellation made with a less than 24-business hours’ notice.

A: We use a variety of evidenced based theories and techniques. Some examples of treatment modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Client-Centered Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Mindfulness techniques.

A: Studies show teletherapy has similar treatment outcomes as in-person therapy in many cases.

A: Some of the benefits of telehealth include convenience, remaining at home for appointments, comfort, saving time, and increasing safety against COVID-19.