What Is Psychotherapy?
Psychotherapy has often been labeled “talk therapy,” but extraordinary advances in psychology and neuroscience have rendered the term obsolete. When an experienced psychologist chooses one or more interventions from a wide range of scientifically-validated strategies, extraordinary results can occur. Modern approaches to behavior change can relieve symptoms, improve thinking, memory, and emotional functioning—all of which can exert beneficial changes within the brain. My approach to psychotherapy utilizes both insight AND skill development. Insight provides understanding about unfulfilling or self-defeating behaviors; skill development provides tools for achieving self-directed, permanent, positive changes.
Fees: For individuals and couples, the rate for an hourly session is $150.00. First sessions generally take more than one hour, but the fee for the first session, regardless of length, is $150.00. For individuals with financial difficulties, a reduced fee can be discussed during our first conversation. Further, in many instances, the cost of therapy can be reduced by meeting less frequently or by completing “homework” assignments between sessions that can expedite the therapeutic process. The first phone conversation, regardless of length, is free of charge.
Payment Options: Cash, personal checks, Credit Cards, Medicare, Tricare, Anthem, and possibly other insurance plans. Also, your insurance company may reimburse for “out-of-network” services.
Self-Pay may be the best option: Before using insurance for mental health services, please consider the advantages of self-pay. First, when you use insurance, you must have a recognized “mental disorder” and a permanent record of that diagnosis becomes part of your permanent record. Second, although your records are confidential, some employers may require a blank medical release as part of a vetting process. In some cases, treatment for a mental disorder can disqualify individuals for certain jobs. Third, in many legal proceedings, your records can be subpoenaed. Thus, not using health insurance provides the greatest level of confidentiality. During your first phone consultation or first therapy session, Dr. DeMoss will provide you with a more detailed explanation about the benefits of self-pay.
The Value of Psychotherapy: The renowned psychologist Abraham Maslow wrote about “Self-Actualization,” which refers to a level of self-fulfillment and personal growth that may have seemed unimaginable. I specialize in helping individuals move past symptom relief and move toward a life of “self-actualization.” I draw upon your strengths, personal history, and teach you the most relevant, scientifically-proven change strategies. It is my view that the most important changes do not occur in a therapist’s office–they occur in the lives of individuals where they live, work, and play and/or worship. I often recommend community-based strategies and reading that can supplement psychotherapy.
In short, we will collaboratively construct your personalized “self-help book” that draws upon your unique history and strengths; and we’ll assemble a tool kit of scientifically-proven strategies that allow you to set your own course and pursue the goals that are most important to you.