Why Therapy?
The people I have seen in psychotherapy over the past 30 years have come from all walks of life and for many different kinds of concerns. In general, people seek psychotherapy when they are in psychological distress, and feel the need to address their unhappiness or stress. Depression and anxiety are the most common experiences of life not going well. Problems in and with significant relationships, along with work-related problems are among the most common reasons people seek consultation. Often, it is at the suggestion of a loved one, friend or colleague.
Psychotherapy provides a safe and confidential place to discuss anxieties, doubts, and fears. It helps people feel like they are facing their problems and concerns, and often leaves them feeling in greater control of their lives. Therapy provides a confidential and non-judgmental arena in which to address the most personal concerns without fear of disrupting other relationships.
What to Expect
First Session After making an appointment, our first meeting will explore the reasons that bring you to therapy. Since therapy requires a sense of comfort and connection with the therapist, the first meeting is a time to discover whether it feels like there is a good fit between us. If it feels like we can work together, we will schedule a series of sessions to continue our exploration of you concerns.
Planning Treatment Usually by the third meeting we will have a good sense of what you want to work on and how we will go about it. If the evaluation suggests that other consultation is needed, we will review what other resources might be useful. These can include a referral to a psychopharmacologist, a couples therapist, a psychotherapy group, vocational counseling, or meditation training, or other services. In this phase we will establish a schedule of regular appointments, usually weekly or bi-weekly.
Length of Treatment This varies greatly depending on the presenting problems and the client’s life circumstances. Psychotherapy to address life transition issues can often conclude within 6 months. Where separation and divorce, change of employment, and health crises are involved, treatment may extend until the crisis resolves and the transition is made. For ongoing concerns such as patterns of anxiety and depression, and interpersonal difficulties, treatment is likely to run several years.
Confidentiality
The psychologist –client relationship is a confidential one. The therapist is bound by law (HIPPA) and ethical standards to protect the confidential nature of the communication. The client is free to release the therapist to share information with someone of the client’s choosing. A signed Release of Information form can be used to govern this process.
The law requires that the therapist is break confidentiality when, and only when, he believes the client is dangerous to himself/herself or others. This is an extremely rare event and occurs in full consultation with the client.
Collaboration
Clients often work with other professionals: primary care physicians, psychiatrists, other therapists, clergy. When appropriate and in consultation with the client, I will communicate with other professionals in the interests of coordination of care.
Prescriptions
I am a psychologist and am not licensed to prescribe medicine. If the question of medication comes up, I will refer you to psychiatrists or clinical nurse specialists who will evaluate your need for medicine and prescribe the appropriate treatment.
Fees
My fee for individual and couples treatment is $200. I will discuss adjusting that fee in individual cases. The fee for group is $50 per session. Coaching and Life Planning work is not covered by insurance.
Use of Insurance
I am a participant the Blue Cross Blue Shield network. I also accept Medicare and Tufts Health Plan. Other insurances may provide out of network benefits for Psychotherapy. My office will file claims with your insurance company once you have given me the appropriate information and obtained authorization where needed. It is important that you understand your insurance benefit and the limits of your coverage. I will provide you with a bill for services at the end of each month. Entering into treatment includes a commitment to pay for services in a timely manner.
Missed Appointments
I ask my clients give me 48 hours notice if they intend to cancel a scheduled appointment. Cancellations without adequate notice will be billed to the client at my regular fee. Members of my groups understand that they are responsible for their group fee in any case
Scheduling
I have office hours from Monday through Wednesday at both locations. On Thursdays I am in Newton only. To make an appointment call 617 332 4306. Email stevenkrugman@gmail.com and I will get back to you within 48 hours.
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