Common Questions
Am I seeing a psychologist and a psychiatrist?
Cahaba Psychology Center is a psychology practice, and all our clinical staff are Licensed Psychologists. A Psychologist has a doctoral degree in Psychology (either a Ph.D. or a Psy.D.). Their training includes extensive education and clinical experience in understanding and treating emotional and psychological problems. Psychologists also are trained extensively in relevant research in the basis of what they do. Psychologists in Alabama do not prescribe medicine. If a patient needs medication to manage their mental health issues, your psychologist will refer you to a medical doctor.
A Psychiatrist is trained in medicine and then specializes in psychiatry. Some psychiatrists provide psychotherapy, but most evaluate and treat the medical aspects of mental illness, including prescription medications. Cahaba Psychology Center does not have any psychiatrists on staff.
What happens in therapy?
Therapy begins with several sessions where you and your therapist discuss your current situation and symptoms. During this time a plan will be put together to address these symptoms. During this part of therapy, you may do a variety of things depending on your problems and needs. Therapy usually consists of talking about your thoughts and feelings regarding issues that are troubling you. You and your therapist will come up with ways to think about these issues and things to try doing that are designed to reduce the stress and difficulty you are experiencing. You may also be asked to read materials that relevant to your problem in order to speed your progress. You and your therapist will discuss whatever changes will be helpful in your thinking and behavior. Sometimes other family members may be involved in therapy sessions as well.
What about taking medication?
You and your psychologist may decide that, in addition to psychotherapy, medication may be of help to you. Your therapist will refer you to your family doctor or to a psychiatrist for consideration of medication. We will consult with the M.D. as needed to be sure the medication is helpful.
How long will my therapy last?
The length of treatment varies depending on the type of problem you have. In general, most people begin to see improvement in eight to ten sessions. Some people require more extensive work and support and may continue in treatment for several months. We view psychotherapy as a resource available throughout life and you may wish to return to treatment to help with problems in living as they occur.
Will what I say be confidential ?
Yes, what is said in a therapy session is usually confidential and no one other than your therapist will know what you have said. However, there are a few exceptions to that rule. If you pose a threat to your own safety or the safety of someone else, your therapist is required by law to notify the appropriate people to try to prevent any harm from occurring. Your therapist is also required to report any incidences of child abuse to the Department of Human Resources. In addition, there are some legal proceedings where your mental health is an issue, and the court may order that your records be released.
Will insurance cover my visits to a psychologist?
Most health insurance policies do have some provision to pay for part of your psychotherapy. This varies greatly from policy to policy. It is important for you to check with your health insurance company before coming to see your therapist if you plan to use your insurance. A guide to aid you in this process is provided in the Insurance section of our web site.