Q: I’m NOT an attorney. Do you only work with attorneys?

While I specialize in working with attorneys, I see people in many other professions for individual and couples therapy. The stresses of the legal profession are present in many other situations.

Q: Is counseling and therapy the same thing?

Basically, yes. While therapy is considered a deeper exploration of your personality, in everyday terms, they are used synonymously.

Q: Does going to therapy mean there’s something wrong with me?

Many people “can use a good listening to” (anonymous proverb.) Considering the high rates of depression and anxiety in our society, seeking help is considered normal.
Since I don’t bill insurance, I don’t have to give a mental disorder diagnosis to you. And asking for an impartial second party’s help more likely means that you are intelligent and self-aware rather than something is wrong with you. If you do meet the criteria for a mental health diagnosis, we will discuss what this will mean to you.

 

Q: Will my information be kept private?

Yes. I am required to keep our sessions confidential; in legal terms, you own the privilege of confidentiality. That means that the information you give me is your information — not mine. I cannot even acknowledge knowing you. There are a few specific exceptions to confidentiality rules which all therapists are required to follow. I will explain the exceptions during the first session. I would be more than willing to discuss these with you by telephone prior to your first session, if you would like.

 

Q: What is the difference between a psychologist and other therapists?

A psychologist has had specialized training in graduate school for approximately four to five years and has earned a PhD, Psy.D, or Ed.D. as well as completed a one year internship in a mental health setting. Most states require a year of post graduate full time supervision before becoming license eligible.
Currently a psychologist in Indiana does not prescribe medications but can refer you to a physician if medications are needed.

A psychiatrist has been to medical school for four years and earned the Doctorate in Medicine (M.D.) and then had 3 to 5 years training as a resident in in a mental health setting connected to a university medical center. A psychiatrist can prescribe medications.
Other practitioners are social workers who have earned the master’s degree and may or may not have had training in psychotherapy. There are also master’s level practitioners who practice as counselors, or as marriage and family therapists.

 

Q: Do you bill insurance for me and accept what they pay you?

I am a fee for service provider. I accept cash, checks, MasterCard, Visa, or Discover at the time of your session.

If you wish to use your insurance, I will give you a receipt suitable for you to turn in to your insurance company.

If you want to know what your insurance company might reimburse, ask them what the deductible and reimbursement rate is for an out of network provider who is a licensed psychologist. Other questions that you might want to ask include:

• How many sessions do I get per calendar year?
• Have I met my deductible?
• Will my insurance pay for psychological testing?
• Will my insurance pay for marriage counseling?

For more information about why I have chosen not to become part of insurance networks, please contact me. We can discuss your financial situation in greater depth.

Q: How long will I be in therapy?

Many factors can dictate this. During the first few sessions, we will determine the goals of your therapy. Then, together, we will work on the plan to reach those goals. As we work together, I will give you feedback about your progress towards your goals; but, ultimately, how long therapy takes is determined by you. I have an article posted that explains the stages of treatment in greater detail.

Q: Sometimes I travel, and I won’t be able to come to your office. Do you only meet for 45 minute sessions?

I have a menu of various plans for meeting. These include a range from 30 minute sessions to three hour sessions — and thanks to the miracle of the internet: consider computer/teleconferencing sessions using Skype or other methods with webcams!

Contact DocDebra@TheAttorneysTherapist.com for more information or to ask any question not covered on this page. Together during the first session, we will determine what works best for you.

Material on this website is for informational and/or educational purposes only and is not intended to provide or be a substitute for professional services. Use of this website does not establish a therapeutic relationship.