What is Mental Health?

As defined by the World Health Organization (WHO), “Mental health is a state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realize their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to their community. It is an integral component of health and well-being that underpins our individual and collective abilities to make decisions, build relationships and shape the world we live in. Mental health is a basic human right. And it is crucial to personal, community and socio-economic development.” According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices.”

How do I know if I need therapy or medication?

I believe that the choice to seek mental health counseling and/or pharmacological management is a deeply personal decision. I am here to discuss the potential benefits and risks of receiving mental health services, as well as address any questions or concerns you may have at this time. Please feel free to call us at (682) 273-8501 for a complimentary 15-minute consultation. While I may be able to offer basic information about psychotropic medications, along with referrals for local psychiatric providers, I strongly recommend consulting with your preferred medical provider(s). It should be noted that I am not medically-trained and therefore cannot provide medical advice regarding prescribed medications.

Can my mental health provider prescribe medications?

There are no staff with prescription privileges employed at Paradise Psychology at this time. However, I am able to provide local referrals for psychiatric providers upon request.

How do I become a new client?

If you would like to become a new client, please contact me at (682) 273-8501. I will gather basic information (e.g., the name of your preferred provider, your full legal name, telephone number, email address, etc.) to input into our electronic health records system. At that time, you will be sent an online link via email for the Client Portal. The Client Portal is where you will complete and sign all practice-related documents, input required information, and/or upload requested documents. Upon completion of the intake documentation, as well as verification of your insurance eligibility and benefits (if applicable), I will contact you to schedule your initial appointment. I welcome any additional questions about becoming a new client!

What should I expect at the first appointment?

The initial (intake) appointment is scheduled for 60 minutes. I will explain confidentiality and its limitations, as well as briefly discuss the therapeutic and billing processes for our practice. We will spend time reviewing the intake questionnaire that was completed within the Client Portal. During that time, I will ask questions to gather additional information that will be used to assist you better throughout the treatment process. If applicable and/or desired, I may discuss mental health diagnosis/es. At the end of the session, we will work together to identify your goals for treatment. Don’t worry! These goals will be revisited every 90 days and can be changed later at any time.

Are my sessions confidential?

Mental health professionals, including myself, must uphold and maintain the confidentiality of clients. During your initial (intake) appointment, I will explain confidentiality and its limitations. This information is also outlined in the consent documents you are required to sign when becoming a new client at my practice. If you ever have questions or concerns about our policies surrounding confidentiality, please speak with me and/or contact me at hello@paradisepsychology.com.

Should I choose in-person or telehealth sessions?

Mental health professionals, as well as clients, are typically in agreement that receiving therapy via telehealth (audio/video) can be just as effective as receiving therapy in-person. Telehealth has also become an increasingly popular option since 2019. Several clients choose to transition between in-person and telehealth sessions at their convenience, while others choose solely in-person or telehealth sessions. However, I may request you attend only in-person sessions if I believe you are not a good fit for telehealth. If you have questions about whether telehealth may be appropriate for you, please contact me for a free 15-minute consultation at (682) 273-8501.

How long will treatment take?

It depends. (I know, I know. Not the answer you were hoping for…) The length of treatment for each individual varies greatly due to several factors, including but not limited to, the frequency of sessions, degree of impairment, and the presenting clinical issues. Some clients experience symptom relief within 90 days, while others continue to reap the benefits of therapy for 12+ months. I recommend that new clients start with weekly or biweekly (once every two weeks) sessions to maximize treatment benefits. We will discuss recommendations such as this during the initial (intake) session. We will continue to work together to ensure progress is being made by reviewing your treatment goals and objectives, as well as the preferred frequency of sessions, at least once every 90 days.

Can my provider complete psychological testing?

I do not offer psychological testing services at this time. If you are seeking referrals for psychological testing, please contact us at (682) 273-8501 or hello@paradisepsychology.com - we would be happy to provide you with local resources.

Can I still become a client if my preferred provider is out-of-network (does not accept my insurance)?

Yes! While I am in-network with several major insurance payers, I often hear from members of the community who are struggling to find a local providers who are in-network with their insurance plans and have availability. As a result, I offer SuperBills to out-of-network clients who wish to submit claims directly to their insurance plan for potential reimbursement. Please note that submission of a SuperBill does not guarantee reimbursement by your insurance plan and that payment of the full fee is expected at the time services are rendered. I strongly recommend contacting your insurance plan to inquire about your out-of-network behavioral health coverage prior to receiving services. If you have additional questions regarding SuperBills and inquiring about out-of-network benefits, please contact me at (682) 273-8501.

What if I do not have insurance and cannot afford self-pay rates for services?

I have limited spots available for reduced rate clients who join my practice through Open Path Collective. If you have questions or concerns about how Paradise Psychology, PLLC can serve you despite being under- or un- insured, please contact me at (682) 273-8501 or hello@paradisepsychology.com.

How I can support my friend, relative or colleague who is attending therapy?

How AMAZING are YOU for asking?! But seriously, I think this article is great for those who wish to support a friend, relative, or colleague who is attending therapy. If you have a romantic partner attending therapy, then this article is also a must read. Lastly, if you have a friend, relative, or colleague who you believe may be at risk of harming themselves please read this article and take action if necessary. You may also contact the MHMR of Tarrant County iCare Line (24/7) at 1-800-866-2465 or Parker County Pecan Valley Centers (24/7) at 1-800-772-5987 for assistance.

What if I feel like my provider is not a good fit, or that treatment is not working?

While I strive to ensure that my clients’ receive satisfactory care, I understand that sometimes the therapeutic relationship and/or treatment does not meet expectations. If this happens, I encourage my clients to speak with me about their concerns. I know that telling your provider that treatment doesn’t seem to be working or that you may want to transfer to a new provider can be scary. However, my role is to offer support and help you achieve your goals. If you believe treatment is no longer working, I will discuss alternative methods of treatment with you and help modify your treatment plan. I also know that I will not be the “right” fit for everyone (and that’s okay). Let me help you find the provider that will best serve you - even if that provider is not at Paradise Psychology! If you have questions about my practice philosophies please visit our website pages or contact me at (682) 273-8501. I look forward to speaking with you!