Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Who will answer my phone call or email message?

A: I respond to all phone calls and emails.

Q: What will my first appointment consist of?

A: Your first appointment will be a free consultation visit lasting 30 minutes. We discuss what led you to my office, what you want to recieve from therapy, and why you chose to me as your psychologist. At the end of the consultation, I will create a treatment plan for you.

Q: How long are all following sessions?

A: Usually the following sessions last for 45 minutes. Many people choose a double session of 90 minutes. As it is recommended for new patients, most attend sessions on a weekly basis. Some, on the other hand, choose to attend sessions twice a week or every other week. During these sessions, we dissect each issue into easier to handle problems. In these smaller pieces, we can clearly identify the common underlying thread.

Q: How should I pay you?

A: Before each session, at the Reception Desk, you can pay the fee by cash, check or credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express).

Q: How long will I need to be in therapy?

A: The length of your treatment depends on the issues that you need to address, how deeply you want to go, how profoundly you want to change and how committed you are to doing your homework. CBT lasts for a total of 16 sessions. However, some patients report positive changes and improvements just after a few sessions. As you improve, we can talk about maintenance sessions. Maintenance sessions usually are conducted monthly or even every other month and are designed to monitor the changes and continue your growth and progress.

Q: I heard Cognitive Behavioral Therapy emphasizes homework, what exactly is homework?

A: Therapy takes place in and outside of my office. It is important that you use what you learn in therapy in your everyday life. Together, we decide on the "homework" that is feasible for you to completebetween sessions. The homework is tailored to your treatment and personal goals. Examples of homework include:

  • reading assignments
  • tracking your moods, thoughts, and behaviors
  • changing the way you communication with others
  • etc

Q: Is everything I share with my therapist held in confidence?

A: Your confidentiality is protected by state law and by the rules of my profession. All information concerning patients is held confidential and is only released through proper law and ethical procedures.

Q: What if I think I need a medical evaluation or I am already taking medication?

A: I am licensed and trained to practice psychology, not medicine. However, I often will refer you to physicians who prescribe medications. These physicians can schedule you for a medication consultation and/or continued medication management.

Q: How will I know if I'm improving?

A: Together, we will remember the goals that you set for your therapy. We will measure your progress by evaluating these goals frequently.