WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT DURING A PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT?

My first step in the assessment process is to consult and find out what you wish to learn from the evaluation. With this information, and after obtaining a comprehensive history, I am able to begin the psychological testing process. Psychological tests are used to assess a variety of mental abilities and attributes, including achievement and ability, personality, and neurological functioning. Administered tests vary according to the issue the patient wishes to address. They are conducted in the privacy of my office, where you can enjoy a relaxed and comfortable environment.

Snacks and breaks are available at any time during the evaluation process to further ensure your comfort. I meet with patients between three and six times, with sessions lasting two hours each. The amount of necessary session will be decided during the first meeting. Upon the completion of the evaluation process, I will provide you with comprehensive results and answer any questions you may have. With the evaluation results, we can form a treatment plan, which may include individual therapy, group therapy, or medication evaluation and management.

HOW MUCH WILL THERAPY COST?

Some clients choose to use their health insurance to cover the cost of therapy, whereas others pay out of pocket. I do accept PPO plans that allow for members to see an out-of-network provider. You can discuss this with your insurance provider by calling them and asking if they will allow you to see a psychologist that you have chosen. My fee is occasionally adjusted and I am able to work on a sliding scale basis, therefore please call to discuss what my current fees are and any other arrangements that we may make. Payment is requested at the time of service.

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT DURING A FIRST THERAPY SESSION?

Our first session together is a time for us to get to know each other. It gives me the opportunity to learn what you are seeking in your treatment and discuss with you how I can help you. This is also a time for you to feel how it is to be with me. Committing to be in therapy with a particular therapist may feel like an overwhelming decision.

There is no commitment at the beginning of therapy and I suggest that you give yourself a few sessions to decide if it feels like a good fit. For child and family therapy, I generally request that the parents attend at least the first session. After the initial session, we will discuss how best to proceed which often times depends on the age of the child and the needs of the family. In addition to getting to know each other, we will agree on a fee, and discuss the frequency of meeting, which is often once per week for a 50 minute session.

HOW LONG WILL THE PROCESS OF THERAPY TAKE?

The length of treatment varies greatly depending on the type of problem as well as the individual person. Some people and families begin therapy with a very specific area that they want to address and this can be resolved in a short course of treatment. Whereas, others may have a more general problem area and they may need more time to explore the antecedents of the problem, as well as the factors that are contributing to feeling stuck in a particular area.

In addition, clients vary in what they would like out of the course of treatment. Some people want to develop a long-term relationship which they utilize to support them in examining patterns of behaving and relating. Others want the therapeutic relationship to be more goal oriented and short term. The length of treatment will be discussed and, together we will decide what best suits your needs.