What is the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist?

A psychologist does not prescribe medication while a psychiatrist does. A psychologist completes a doctorate degree in psychology while a psychiatrist completes a doctorate degree in medicine, and then specializes in mental health. I am a licensed psychologist. Therefore, I do not prescribe medications, but I am happy to refer you to a psychiatrist and/or collaborate with your prescriber to coordinate care and better serve your needs. If you're not interested in medication, you are not required to seek medication management services.

What can I expect for the first appointment?

The initial appointment for assessment and counseling is focused on getting to know you and what your goals or needs are. Clients usually decide within the first appointment if the provider is a good fit for them or not.

What can I expect for a testing appointment?

First, you will attend a 60 minute initial appointment during which we will discuss your personal background and your concerns or reasons for wanting an assessment. If I can answer your questions or provide feedback without further assessment, I will inform you of this near the end of the initial appointment, and further follow-up appointments are not necessary. 

If I am unable to answer your questions or concerns during the initial appointment, I will schedule you for a testing appointment which will vary in length depending on presenting concern(s). Testing appointments can last from 1 hour to about 6 hours maximum. I rarely spend over 3 hours testing a client, as I do my best to limit testing to what is necessary in order to keep services at a lower cost. Since testing appointments have a longer duration, breaks are offered, and clients are encouraged to bring water and snacks. If you wear glasses or hearing aids, you are highly recommended to wear them to testing appointments since all tasks are visual and/or verbal. Testing may be completed at once or broken into two shorter appointments. After I score the assessments and complete your report, I schedule a 60 minute appointment with you to discuss results, diagnoses (if any), and recommendations. You will be provided with a copy of the assessment report.

Many individual ask "what kind of tests are they." The tests I give depend on what your concerns are. They range from questionnaires you complete to other tasks that include puzzles, problem solving, reading, writing, and math. Some assessments are administered on ipads or computers while others are administered via paper and pencil.

What if I'm asked questions I am not comfortable answering?

Prior to appointments, you will be asked to complete forms regarding your personal history. During appointments, providers may ask a variety of questions. If you are uncomfortable answering any of the questions, it is your right to share what you wish and to keep information private that you do not wish to share. The information you share is up to you. You can leave questions on forms blank, and you may request to discuss a different topic during conversation with your provider. Often times clients feel pressured or obligated to answer questions when asked by providers, so remember it is your right to decline to answer any questions you do not wish to answer.

What is the difference between privacy and confidentiality?

Privacy: The relationship between the psychologist  and client involves the basic privilege of individuals to decide which information and how much of their information is to be shared. 

Confidentiality: Confidentiality is an explicit oath on behalf of the psychologist to not reveal any information about a client unless authorized to do so by the client or law. Limits to confidentiality apply.  

If you have further questions regarding privacy or confidentiality, you are welcome to contact me.