Common Questions

What benefits can I expect from working with a certified American Board of Professional Psychology CBT psychologist?

There are many empirically demonstrated benefits of working with certified supervisors and or providers of CBT. Unfortunately, many therapists describe themselves as providing CBT but have not been CBT-certified or achieved Board Certification. Studies have found that many non-credentialed supervisors and providers of CBT do not show the typically expected levels of efficacy. Credentialed  CBT providers listen compassionately to understand and provide a fresh perspective. Credentialed CBT providers have demonstrated providing relief from life-interfering difficulties or problems and developing long-lasting coping or value-driven strategies. CBT is one of the most evidence-based treatment strategies used today. Many people find therapy a tremendous asset for managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, and the unexpected problems or hassles that life often brings.

Why do people seek therapy?

People come to therapy for a variety of reasons. Some individuals seek to learn how to better cope with unexpected changes (internal and external) in their lives, while others seek self-exploration and positive personal growth. Therapy is helpful when one's coping skills are overwhelmed by guilt, shame, doubt, anxiety, or despair. Also, evidence shows that treatment can provide support and problem-solving skills and enhance coping strategies for naturally occurring human conditions. For example, various manifestations of depression, anxiety, OCD, lack of confidence, stress management, body image issues, anger issues, and creative blocks.

Some people come for assistance with their journey toward self-actualization and other positive psychological destinations  (positive psychology).

What can one expect in CBT?

 In the TREATMENT section of this site, under the TYPICAL SESSION link, I try to thoroughly describe the therapy process and some forms that I developed to support the process.

What if I do not know what are my goals in therapy?

The standard initial process in CBT is for the therapist and the individual to work together to delineate goals towards their unique values and aspirations and collaboratively develop a treatment plan. During therapy, your goals may change. Nevertheless, establishing a direction for therapy will help you get the most out of the experience. We emphasize the importance of understanding each individual's strengths.

What about medication versus psychotherapy?

Psychiatric medication may be pretty helpful at times. Research, however, also often shows higher relapse rates with medications alone. The long-term solution to emotional, behavioral, and pain management is not simply medication alone. Instead of just trying to treat symptoms, CBT addresses predisposing factors and maintenance factors of our distress. And adding Mindfulness to CBT further reduces the risk of relapses. As previously stated, my approach is multidimensional, holistic, and integrated. Nevertheless, adding medication along with CBT is quite helpful in many situations. Because of the complex issues surrounding psychiatric drugs, I suggest you consult a Licensed Psychiatrist or a Certified Psycho-pharmacologist before beginning any psychotropic medication.

Do you take insurance, and how does that work?

I have an out-of-network solo private practice. I no longer accept any insurance primarily as it often does not fully protect the confidentiality of the psychotherapy visits. Insurance and other third-party payment programs require a diagnosis, and they have the right to access therapy notes and additional sensitive and privileged information. I will, of course, upon request, provide you with a receipt for payments of services rendered. Nevertheless, suppose you choose to submit these receipts to insurance or any other third-party program; in those cases, I will not be able to protect your confidentiality (e.g., diagnosis or the possibility of insurance audit) as stated above.

Given the complexities regarding third-party payers and insurance programs, I strongly suggest you speak to your third-party payer before selecting an ot-of network, pay-only practitioner like myself. You need to carefully determine whether your particular[insurance plan will provide you with some reimbursement for services rendered by out-of-network providers. In addition, there are legal and ethical controversies associated with THE NO-SURPRISE BILLING legislature that went into effect on 1/1/22. You can find details concerning the NO SURPRISE ACT in the TREATMENT heading at the bottom of the FORMS link.

Unfortunately, their HR department recently told a young professional that Health Insurance would reimburse them a percentage of the standard fee for an out-of-network (OON) provider. As a result, they released all the personal information requested by the insurance company, only to be denied reimbursement without reasonable cause. I provided all the usually required data to justify the medical necessity of services rendered with written consent. We are still trying to appeal the decision; however, unknown insurance personnel possesses sensitive and private diagnostic information.

I can and do see individuals who are on Medicare; however, at this point, I am entirely outside of the Medicare payment system. If you are on Medicare, there is a form you must sign before we work together, which states that you realize I am no longer a Medicare provider; thus, you are entirely responsible for the cost of services rendered. Medicare regulations permit me to see such individuals, given that I clarify these limitations.

Does what we talk about in therapy remain confidential?

Confidentiality is one of the most critical aspects of the therapeutic relationship. Successful therapy requires a high level of trust due to discussing personal concerns. 

In the treatment section of this website, under OUTPATIENT SERVICES CONSENT FORM, I try to clearly state the limitations of confidentiality and provide a summary of HIPPA laws. By law, a therapist cannot release any of your therapy material without obtaining your written permission except in the rare exceptions explained earlier and below.

• Suppose Suspected past or present abuse or neglect of children, adults, and elders based on information provided by the client or collateral sources. The law requires a therapist to report such behavior to the authorities, including Child Protection and law enforcement.

• If the therapist suspects the client is seriously in danger of harming themselves or has threatened to harm another person(s).

• If it is necessary, lawsuits, legal or court proceedings if court-ordered.

• If court-ordered by their authority, we may be required to disclose personal data to the military.

• We may be required to disclose personal and sensitive information to correctional institutions or legal enforcement authorities for healthcare services for the incarcerated or to protect their health and safety or the health and safety of other individuals.

• If you are receiving treatment reimbursement from insurance or third-party payers, they have a right to know your diagnosis and other personal information.

What if I have further questions?

For our treatment to be effective, I encourage feedback throughout our work together in the spirit of helping you learn to be your own best friend and therapist. If you have questions before committing to the Consultation, please ask them during the brief screening telephone call.