What is a pre-adoptive psychological evaluation?
Pre-adoptive psychological evaluation entails a
meeting between prospective adoptive parents and a Psychologist or other
mental health professional. A discussion is typically followed by a
report (usually 2-4 pages in length) which covers background information
about the prospective parents (e.g., information about their own
childhood and development, history of mental illness, etc.). The
evaluation also covers reasons or desire to adopt and seeks to
understand the prospective parents’ lifestyle and their envisioned
lifestyle after they have adopted a child. A personality inventory may
be given. Understanding personality factors may help the evaluator
provide recommendations on how to handle the many adjustments to
parenthood. After all of the above information is gathered, the
evaluator will provide an opinion on the prospective parents’ abilities
to parent an adoptive child.
What is a pre-surrogacy psychological evaluation?
A pre-surrogacy psychological evaluation is very
similar to pre-adoptive evaluation. Background information is gathered
to identify if a prospective surrogate may be a good candidate for a
potential family based on their motivations, mental health and personal
history.
Are you licensed in Wisconsin to provide health services?
I am a Licensed Psychologist in Wisconsin. My license number is 2632-057.
How long does therapy last?
The course of therapy varies from person to person. Sometimes people achieve
their goals in just a few months, while in other cases it may take a year or
longer to complete our work. Factors influencing the duration include the nature
and complexity of the issues we're addressing, your life circumstances, your
motivation, and many other variables.
You probably will know whether our partnership feels "right" within our first
several meetings and can decide whether to continue with me or to seek a
referral to another practitioner.
How often would we meet?
Psychotherapy typically begins on a weekly basis. When individuals are going
through a particularly difficult time, we may consider meeting more often. As we
get closer to meeting your goals for treatment we may agree to meet less
frequently.
Can you assure me that my privacy will be protected?
I am very sensitive to people's concerns about privacy and confidentiality.
I am aware that we are likely to run into each other at local events, at the
grocery store, or other places outside the therapy office. To respect your
privacy, I may not greet you or act as if I know you, unless you indicate that
it is okay.
What about confidentiality?
You have a legal right to the confidentiality of what we discuss in our
sessions, and even to the fact that you are in therapy with me, unless you give
me written permission to disclose that information (for example, to your medical
doctor). I am required to safeguard that confidentiality.
There are, however, some legal exceptions:
- I am required to notify the authorities if I have cause to suspect that
a juvenile (under age 18) has been abused or neglected.
- I also must contact the authorities if I have reasonable cause to believe
that abuse or neglect of an elderly or disabled person has occurred.
- If you are involved in a legal proceeding, a judge may order me to disclose
information related to your treatment.
Does being in therapy mean there's something wrong with me or that I have
a mental illness?
It is very unfortunate that in American society, there is still a stigma
associated with seeking help for emotional and mental problems. My view is just
the opposite: I see people who come to therapy as strong, courageous, and
motivated to work on what's distressing them.
If you come to me for help, I will not treat you as if you are sick and
helpless. Instead, I will do my utmost to impart my firm conviction that you
have the potential to change your life for the better.
How do I know what my insurance will pay for Outpatient Counseling?
We will be happy to help you determine what costs may be covered by your
insurance. In addition, you may look at the back of your insurance card and call
the toll free number for Mental Health for Substance Abuse. Ask for benefits for
Outpatient Counseling and ask the following:
- How many sessions do I have per year?
- What is my deductible and have I satisfied it yet?
- Do I have a co-pay?
- Is my therapist in network and how much do they pay?
- Is there out of network benefits and how much do they pay?
- Do I need to pre-certify / authorize sessions?
