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| Question: | I've never been to a psychologist before. What can I expect to happen? |
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Psychotherapy is not easily described in general statements. It varies depending on the personalities of the psychologist and patient, and the particular problems you are experiencing. There are many different methods I may use to deal with the problems that you hope to address.
The first time you come to my office, expect to arrive approximately 15 minutes early in order to fill out the necessary patient forms. After completing the forms, I will spend the remaining time finding out about the nature of your problems and concerns as well as gathering important information about your medical, psychological, family and relationship history. This information will inform my assessment of the problem and guide the development of an appropriate treatment plan.
In most cases, we will arrange to meet once a week for approximately 45 to 50 minutes. This is your time each week to explore your thoughts, feelings and concerns. You will get as much out of therapy as you put into it, so I encourage you to be open, honest and to challenge yourself to move beyond your comfort zone. While your treatment is underway, we will periodically evaluate our work together. When necessary, we may change course in order to help you achieve your treatment goals.
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| Question: | I want to be evaluated to see if I may have a learning disorder or ADHD. What is the process? |
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The first time you come to my office, expect to arrive approximately 15 minutes early in order to fill out the necessary patient forms. After completing the forms, I will spend the remaining time finding out about the nature of your learning problems and how these difficulties have impacted your personal, academic or employment functioning. I will also gather information about your medical, psychological and family history. Please bring with you any past report cards, teacher feedback or employer evaluations you may have in your possession. This information will inform my assessment of the problem and guide the types of tests and instruments I will use in your psycho-educational evaluation.
Once I have gathered all the background information necessary, we will schedule to meet for the testing component of the evaluation. It is very important that you come to these appointments refreshed and well-rested. It is also important to wear comfortable clothes, bring some snacks to eat during breaks and any hearing or vision aids that you may need. Please plan to spend a few hours with me in my office. Depending on the nature of your learning difficulties and the types of tests used, it may be necessary to schedule a second visit. During this visit, you will be presented with a number of tasks that will assess your learning strengths and challenges. You may also complete some questionnaires or instruments to assess your current functioning.
The data from these measures is scored and interpreted within the context of your background information. From there, I am able to write a report which documents and outlines the nature of your learning strengths and challenges. Upon conclusion of the report, I provide a list of recommendations to aid in the compensation of your learning difficulties. These recommendations may include steps that you can take to address your difficulties and/or provide recommendations for appropriate accommodations at your school or work. Last, we will meet to discuss the report and the recommendations provided.
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