What is the difference between a professional counselor and a psychologist?  The main differences between psychologists and therapists involve their:

• level of education and training

• authority to make mental health diagnoses

• approach to treatment

Licensed therapists must have, at minimum, a master’s degree in a field related to psychotherapy. Psychologists must have a doctorate-level degree such as a PhD or PsyD.  Both offer the​rapeutic services for those struggling with various types of emotional, mental, and social relationship problems.  Both can assist their clients in unlocking their personal potential for using appropriate coping skills for management of issues like depression, anxiety, stress, and life transitions. Psychologists are able to administer and interpret psychological tests and assessments used in formal psychological evaluations for diagnostic clarity and treatment recommendations. Each of our providers has their own specialties and are of expertise. Please call our office to determine your best fit for your needs. 

 

Do psychologists prescribe medication?  Psychologists in the state of Georgia do not prescribe medication, but our training allows us to recognize the potential need for medication to assist the therapeutic process. Research suggests that in certain cases, the combination of medication and traditional outpatient psychotherapy yields better benefits than either one alone. We can assist you if the need arises with a referral to a psychiatrist, and in some cases  can also coordinate care with your primary care physician.

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How does therapy work?  Effective therapy is a collaborative process between the client and therapist. Through a consolidated effort and working alliance, goals for therapy are determined and a treatment plan is established that best fits the needs of the client for meeting their goals. Therapy will facilitate healing in times of grief, increase coping skills for managing moods and regulating strong emotions, foster healthier interpersonal relationships, help to control impulses, reduce anxiety and worry, adjust to life transitions, and help the client to become more keenly aware of their impact on others and how others may impact them.

 

What can I expect in being a therapy client?   We believe you as the client know yourself better than anyone else, but also believe that when problems arise, obtaining an objective viewpoint can increase awareness and assist in navigating the potential pitfalls of life's circumstances. We will never be judgmental and  always strive to treat our clients with respect, dignity, and unconditional positive regard while helping them reach their goals and improve their thoughts and feelings about themselves and the environment around them.

 

Will my sessions and personal information be confidential? Confidentiality of therapy and personal privacy is an essential component of the therapeutic process. All information between the client and therapist is kept confidential within the limits of the law and according to the guidelines of the state of Georgia. Information is only disclosed with the written permission of the client, except in special emergency situations which will be explained in further detail to you upon the initial assessment session. These special circumstances typically include: Child or Elder abuse, Threats to harm self,Threats to harm others