Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I consider therapy?

In the past decade, the understanding of anxiety and mood disorders and it’s treatment has dramatically improved. There is no longer any need to suffer from anxiety disorders or mood disorders. When successfully treated, you should be able to fully enjoy life without the negative effects of anxiety.

What type of therapy do the therapists use?

The therapists at The Center for Treatment of Anxiety and Mood Disorders use comprehensive therapy designed to help you learn how to live your daily life free from the fears or compulsions that inhibit you. We offer cognitive behavior therapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, and in vivo exposure therapy. In some instances, medication may be used in combination with other therapies.

How long does therapy usually last?

Successful treatment for anxiety or mood disorders is generally short term in nature, ordinarily lasting three to six months. In some cases, symptoms may improve in a matter of weeks, and in some cases, treatment may last for a year or more.

What will my first appointment consist of?

During your first appointment, your history and symptoms will be evaluated and a preliminary treatment plan will be developed.

How do I know if a therapist is right for me?

After the first session, you should feel a bit more relaxed and hopeful. You should feel that your therapist has a basic understanding of who you are and that you have been listened to. You should feel accepted.

What if I can’t talk about the things that are bothering me?

Successful therapy depends upon a collaborative effort between the patient and the therapist. Your therapist will never judge you and will try to help you talk about anything that you need to.

Is what I share with my therapist confidential?

All information that you share with this office is protected by Federal Law as private. There are only certain instances where it is not private.

Exceptions to this include:

• Suspected child abuse or dependent adult or elder abuse, which we are required by law to report to the appropriate authorities immediately.
• If a patient is threatening serious bodily harm to another person, we must notify the police and inform the intended victim(s).
• If a patient intends to harm themselves, we will make every effort to enlist their cooperation in ensuring their safety. If they do not cooperate, we will take further measures without their permission that are provided by law in order to ensure their safety.

What if I think I need to be evaluated for medications or I am already prescribed medications?

If our therapists on staff feel that you may benefit from medication, you will be seen by our psychiatrists to assess this. If you are already on medication, this will be continued, or in some cases reevaluated.

Who will answer my email or phone calls?

Our office staff will answer questions, make appointments, and handle payments. Each clinician will answer emails or personal questions via phone or direct email to their personal email.

What is your cancellation policy?

Making your treatment a priority will give you the best chance of recovery and steady progress. Therefore, we ask for a 24 hour notice of cancellation. You will be charged the full fee for your session for cancellation without a 24 hour notice.

Do you take insurance?

This is a fee for service center. While we do not accept insurance, we are happy to provide the necessary paperwork for insurance submission and reimbursement. Our services are reimbursed by most insurance companies on an “out of network” basis.