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What is a psychologist?
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A licensed psychologist holds a doctoral degree from an accredited
university; has produced clinically relevant scientific research; has had extensive
supervised, clinical training in working with individuals and families who have emotional and behavioral
problems; and is licensed by the state in which they practice. Educational training typically
consists of 4 years of undergraduate work, 2 years of study toward a master’s degree, and
an additional 3-4 years of doctoral study and training. Clinical psychologists most often
work in independent or group practices, hospitals, clinics or counseling centers. The
services that they provide include individual, family or group psychotherapy; diagnostic
testing; consultative services; and educational programs for various audiences (e.g.,
schools, civic organizations, churches, and community groups).
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What is a psychiatrist?
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A psychiatrist attends medical school and medical training. Psychiatrists typically evaluate
and treat conditions such as depression, anxiety, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder,
bipolar disorder, etc.. A few psychiatrists might provide psychotherapy. Psychologists work
closely with psychiatrist and often medical doctors to coordinate therapy and medication
management for maximum treatment effectiveness.
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What about others who provide therapy?
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There are other professionals who provide therapy services (e.g., marriage and family
therapists, licensed professional counselors, religious counselors).
The training for each of these as well as other professionals varies by their training program.
For more information, please visit their national sites to review requirements and training.
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Is what I say kept private (i.e., confidential)?
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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 something you say is threatening to your 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 subpoena your records. Please refer to the
psychologist-patient agreement
for more details.
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What if I need medication?
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Psychologists in the state of Alabama do not prescribe medication.
However, if you and your psychologist believe that medication therapy would be of benefit, your psychologist
can refer you to your primary care physician or psychiatrist for a medication evaluation to determine if
medication is appropriate for your condition and what the most appropriate medication would be.
You, your psychologist and your physician should then work closely as a treatment team in working on your treatment goals.
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What happens in therapy (psychotherapy)?
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Therapy usually starts with an interview that consists of questions about your background,
family and current problems. It is important that the psychologist have a good
understanding of your current symptoms and related circumstances. Depending on the
client and the presenting problems, a variety of resources might be utilized including
psychological testing that assesses emotional, behavorial and personality factors. Some clients
are asked to read books, complete workbooks or practice skills outside of therapy.
When working with children or adolescents, a psychologist also uses non-threatening activities
to engage the young client, help them to feel comfortable and to elicit opportunities for discussion and change.
When working with these young clients, it is essential for the parents or caregivers to be involved.
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How long does therapy last?
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The duration of therapy is dependent on several factors including presenting problems, history of problems and treatment goals.
Most therapy is brief, consisting of 6-10 sessions, although many psychological problems require moderate (3-6 months) or long term
therapy (1-2 years). Some clients also continue therapy long term to address issues related to personal growth and development.
In addition, some diagnoses such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder require maintenance therapy to prevent relapse or regression.
You should talk with your psychologist about duration and monitor progress as therapy continues.
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Does insurance pay for therapy (or testing)?
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Most insurance companies will pay for a portion of the services. How much they will pay
depends on the insurance company, the type of coverage that you have, the duration of
services and the type of condition to be treated.
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© Copyright 2007 The Psychological Associates, LLC.
designed and maintained by
Commerce Networks, LLC.
1915 Professional Circle Auburn, AL
Phone: 334.826.1699
Fax: 334.826.1629
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