CHOOSING A THERAPIST
When selecting a psychologist to help you or your child function more comfortably and successfully in everyday life, there are several key factors to consider. It is important to find someone who not only possesses a doctoral degree, a license to practice psychology, and experience in treating the issues you currently face, but who is compassionate, comforting and a good fit. “Goodness of fit” between therapists and patients has been repeatedly cited as a key factor in achieving effective and lasting improvements. Dr. Robinson is known for putting people at ease and making strong connections with children, adolescents, young adults, and their families.
Oftentimes with individuals who are engaged in talk therapy, it is beneficial to use a combination of approaches to facilitate improved relief, insight, behavioral change. Dr. Robinson has a strong background in psychodynamic psychotherapy which she combines with elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and mindfulness-based interventions.
COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY
Cognitive behavioral therapy is the treatment of choice for a number of issues including depression, anxiety, sleep difficulties, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. It involves changing the thoughts and behaviors that are interfering with everyday functioning through talk therapy, and can be used alone or in conjunction with other treatment modalities. Dr. Robinson is experienced in using CBT with individuals of all ages.
DIALETICAL BEHAVIOR THERAPY
Dialectical behavior therapy is a form of talk therapy which is based on CBT, and is useful for individuals experiencing intense emotions, and difficulty regulating or managing their emotions. The focus in DBT is on accepting the reality of one’s life situation and behaviors, and teaching tools to change one’s unhelpful behaviors, and change their situation where they can. Dr. Robinson incorporates the teaching and use of these strategies in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and impulsive behaviors.
MINDFULNESS-BASED INTERVENTIONS
Mindfulness-based interventions incorporate mindfulness practices such as breathing exercises, awareness of the present moment (as opposed to feeling upset about the past or worried about the future), and meditation. They are used in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and challenges in behavioral and emotional regulation.
COLLABORATIVE PROBLEM SOLVING
Some children seem to blow up fiercely and unpredictably. This may occur exclusively at home or across multiple settings. It can be terribly distressing for families to experience these blow-ups, and though the child may seem to cause havoc without regard for others, it can be terribly distressing for them as well. This type of behavior can leave everyone feeling out of control, and at a loss for ideas. Collaborative Problem Solving is an evidence-based approach created by Harvard psychologist Dr. Ross W. Greene. It involves teaching lagging cognitive skills in areas such as frustration, flexibility and problem solving, identifying triggers for your child’s explosive behavior, and getting parents and children to work together to reduce the frequency and intensity of explosive behavior and make lasting, positive changes.
WHAT TO EXPECT
When emailing to schedule an appointment, you will need to provide basic information such as your name and date of birth (or your child’s if applicable) and a brief description of your concerns. You will be asked to send copies of any relevant medical and educational records prior to your consultation, as these can contribute to a more thorough understanding of your case. The initial consultation, which lasts one hour, is for parents and caregivers only in the case of child therapy, so that concerns can be shared freely. Adolescents may join in part or all of the consultation, and young adults typically attend alone. If you are seeking parent support, you may attend alone or with your partner.
Sessions typically take place weekly and last 45 minutes. Some individuals require 60-minute sessions, and some require more than one session each week. A plan for the frequency and duration of sessions is determined at the consultation when goals are set, an adapted as needed over time. In the treatment of younger children, parents typically participate in a portion of their child’s session so that concerns, points of progress, and any new skills learned in session can be communicated.
Parent and caregiver participation is critical to the treatment of children and adolescents. The amount of time an individual spends outside of therapy far exceeds the time spent in session each week, and the influence of family life cannot be overstated. Parent sessions are held at least once per month for 60 minutes, allowing for communication regarding progress and ongoing concerns, as well strategies which can be utilized at home to support growth and well-being for the child and family.
PAYMENT
Payment is due on the date of service, and may be made via credit card or bank transfer using Intuit invoicing. There is a 4% non-cash adjustment for credit card payments. Insurance is not accepted; however, a record of payment is provided and can include the information required for reimbursement through insurance out-of-network benefits. To determine whether you have such benefits, you would contact your carrier’s behavioral health division, and inquire about reimbursement for CPT codes 90791, 90834, 90837 and 90846. These codes correspond to the initial consultation, 45-minute sessions, 60-minute sessions, and parent sessions, respectively. For current rates, please email info@drnicolerobinson.com.