Frequently Asked Questions
Why choose a Licensed Psychologist?
Licensed, doctoral level psychologists have the most extensive education and formal training available in the mental health field. In order to become a licensed psychologist, one needs extensive training and experience in the integration of research and clinical practice. Specifically, becoming a licensed psychologist requires four years of undergraduate work and a minimum of six years of graduate training. This involves thousands of hours of formal clinical training in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of varying mental health issues and concerns. In addition to formal, supervised clinical and research training, Psychologists are required to complete a year of clinical residency (postdoctoral year) of supervised practice and pass several examinations in order to demonstrate their skills, knowledge and their complete understanding of the standards set forth by the American Psychological Association and accrediting bodies.
This level of training and experience in the integration of research and clinical practice enables psychologists to choose up-to-date, effective, and ethical psychotherapy approaches to help meet the unique needs of each client.
Will therapy work for me?
Research supports the assertions that therapy works for most clients. Many report relief from depression, anxiety and relationship problems, amongst numerous other issues. Many also report seeking and benefiting from therapy as a means of personal growth and exploration.
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What about telehealth?
Despite the popularity of digital communication, some may still question teletherapy -"How can it be the same as sitting across from someone in person?" The good news is that data shows teletherapy is as effective at treating mental health disorders as an in-person therapy session. The importance of facial cues are not lost with video conferencing and therapists are still able to offer the highest quality treatment. In fact, teletherapy can increase flexibility for many as there are often fewer obstacles when attending an appointment virtually. This is because our secure video conference platform allows you to meet from any stationary, private place which eliminates the stressors of finding childcare, coordinating your work schedule or fighting traffic. Please be aware that when participating in telehealth sessions you must be in a private, stationary location for the duration of your session.
What should I expect in the first appointment?
Your initial appointment will involve a detailed assessment, where we will work together to understand your particular situation, current problems, background, as well as your strengths and resources in order to develop an appropriate plan for treatment. Our aim is to help you feel comfortable and safe to talk openly about your concerns. Our assessments typically range from one to two sessions. At the end of the initial session(s) we will provide you with our therapeutic recommendations. If we recommend therapy, we will work with you to develop a treatment plan, including goals and approximate time frames.
How long are sessions? How often would we meet?
Individual sessions are 53 minutes long, couples/partner and family sessions may be up to 75 minutes long and typically occur once per week: however, that depends on the nature and severity of the problem(s). As such, sessions may be more or less frequent.
Keep in mind that weekly sessions help to develop a strong therapeutic relationship and help maintain continuity towards reaching your treatment goals. That said, as time passes, session frequency may change as you progress and become more comfortable applying what you have learned in therapy.
What are your hours of operation?
Thrive Psychological Associates has flexible hours that are meant to meet the individual needs of the clients we serve. Contact us and let us try to find a time that works best for you.
What if Thrive Psychological Associates is not listed as a provider by my insurance plan?
Many insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of services provided by out-of-network psychologists. Thrive Psychological Associates will provide you with a bill, which you can then submit to your insurance company for partial or full reimbursement.
If you wish to seek reimbursement from your insurance company, learning about your benefits and coverage will help you make an informed decision. Contacting your insurance provider and asking these questions may help you understand your mental health benefits better:
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Are mental health services covered by my plan?
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Will I need a referral in order to be reimbursed?
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Can I use an out-of-network provider?
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How much is covered per session for an out-of-network provider?​
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How many sessions will you cover?
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What type of documentation will you need from ONP?
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In there a deductible and has it been met?
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Is therapy confidential?
Your privacy is one of our top priorities. As such, what you discuss in session is private and confidential and can only be disclosed to a third party with your expressed written permission.
Florida Law does provide exceptions for certain extreme situations in which we may breach confidentiality and others where we are mandated by law to do so. Examples of these include:
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A client is threatening serious bodily harm to self or others.
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A client has engaged in or is engaging in the abuse of a child, an elder, or a dependent adult.
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A client is at risk of seriously harming her/himself.
Note: that whenever possible, all efforts will be made to enlist the client’s cooperation in ensuring their safety. If this is not successful, confidentiality may be breeched in order to keep a client from harm.
Have a question that is not answered here?
Contact us; it would be our pleasure to help answer any of your questions.