Frequently asked questions, and answers, on how I treat using Cognitive Behavorial Therapy.
How long is a session?
A typical session will last approximately 50 to 55 minutes.
Can I prescribe medication?
No. However, I work in collaboration with local psychiatrists and can provide a referral for medication evaluation as needed. If you are taking psychotropic medication, I can assist with medication management as part of the treatment process.
When do I refer out?
I can offer referrals for services that would be out of my scope of practice such as medication evaluations or psychological testing; for clients that might require a deeper form of therapy such as inpatient, substance abuse, or severe eating disorders; to experts in specific areas such as with assessments for neurological testing; or for community resources that might assist with financial issues. Often referral services are provided in conjunction with therapy.
How long does therapy last?
Therapy can be long term or short term, depending on your needs and desire. I will collaborate with you on the frequency of appointments, the focus of the sessions, and the expected value of continued sessions. Many clients find that with continued work between sessions approximately eight to ten sessions can be sufficient to resolve many issues.
How will I know that therapy is working?
Counseling becomes successful when your life improves in ways that you desire. It is important to remember that the therapeutic process is a collaborative effort to achieve sustainable changes in your daily life. I will frequently check in about your progress and thoughts about working together.
What is the first step?
The first step is often the hardest and I understand how important it is to find the best service to match your family’s needs. I offer a free 20-minute consultation to answer any questions you may have about my services. You may contact me at (424) 256-5426 or erika@cbt-therapist.com.
What is confidential in treatment?
You have a right to expect privacy and confidentiality in therapy. Knowing and trusting that anything you say will be safely contained in the therapeutic space is essential to meaningful therapy. There are a few legal exceptions when a therapist must break confidentiality in order to protect clients who are deemed a real and present danger to self or others; or when there is credible suspicion or knowledge of child or elder abuse. It is important to discuss with me any questions you have about confidentiality.
Will you bill my insurance company?
I will use a HIPAA compliant online billing service in order to bill your insurance company directly. Depending on your insurance plan, I will bill my services as either an in-network provider or provide a super bill if I am an out-of-network provider. Please note that if your insurance company is billed, they can have access to your diagnosis, treatment plans and other therapeutic documentation.
