Dr. Arlene O'Connor
Clinical Psychologist
949-916-0340
Helping your family Thrive
Frequently Asked Questions
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1. Is therapy confidential?
In general, information shared in session is confidential and may not be revealed to anyone. However, there are some instances whereby I am legally required to disclose information from session. These are:
•When there is reasonable suspicion of child abuse or elder or dependent adult abuse.
When there is reasonable suspicion of child abuse or elder or dependent adult abuse.•Where the patient threatens violence to an identifiable victim.
Where the patient threatens violence to an identifiable victim. •When the patient presents a danger of violence to others or is likely to harm him or herself unless protective measures are taken.
When the patient presents a danger of violence to others or is likely to harm him or herself unless protective measures are taken. 2. What is your fee and do you accept insurance?
My fee is $150 for a 50 minute psychotherapy session. The fee for a couple’s session scheduled for 80 minutes is $200. Payment is due at the end of each visit and can be made with cash, personal check, Visa or Master Card.
I accept most PPO plans and am contracted with Anthem blue Cross. To determine if you have mental health coverage, the first thing you should do is check with your insurance carrier. Check your coverage carefully and find the answers to the following questions:
* Do I have mental health benefits?
* Is there a deductible?
* How many therapy sessions does my plan cover?
*How much is my co-payment?
*Is a pre-authorization required?
3. How often do I need to come to therapy?
Most people come to therapy once per week for sessions lasting 50-60 minutes. In some situations it is more effective to meet more intensely at the onset, meeting perhaps 2 or 3 times per week. The length of time in treatment varies according to the severity of the presenting problem and the particular goals an individual wants to attain. We will discuss this during our initial visit.
4. What if I need medication?
As a psychologist, I do not prescribe medication, but work closely with several psychiatrists who are experienced in
evaluating and prescribing psychotropic medication for depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive Disorder, etc. I will
provide you with referrals should you need them.
5. What is your Approach to Therapy?
I am often asked about my approach to therapy by prospective patients. This can be a difficult question to answer since my
approach will depend on what your needs are and what issues are being addressed. Working on personal growth or
developing insight on your relationship patterns, for example, may require a very different approach than treating panic
attacks or anxiety.
I will ask many questions and work collaboratively with you to develop goals for therapy and a plan to work towards them. I
will provide you with an estimate of the time frame needed to address your concerns and the possible obstacles you may
encounter. While some therapists emphasize active listening, my approach is highly interactive and you will be given regular
feedback.
Many researchers who study the benefits of psychotherapy believe the single most important factor in patients’ satisfaction is
their ability to feel comfortable with their therapist when addressing their concerns. I believe the interpersonal connection
and the therapeutic alliance you and I may develop is often more important than a particular approach or technique. Having
said that, I believe there is also no substitute to obtaining a solid education and experience providing psychotherapy.
I welcome the opportunity to speak with you over the phone prior to scheduling an appointment, and will be happy to answer
any questions you may have about my education, expertise treating a particular issue or therapeutic approach.
My approach to psychotherapy is consistent with the ethical guidelines and principles of the American Psychological
Association, of which I am a member.
