Frequently Asked Questions

Learn the answers to the questions you may have

What are the most common reasons people see a psychologist?

Psychological Evaluation

A Psychological Evaluation may be recommended by an employer (Pre-Employment, Fitness for Duty), physician/psychiatrist (determine a diagnosis which guides treatment) or teacher (ADHD, Psycho-Education Evaluation for possible IEP). Individuals may also request an evaluation to gain a better understanding of patterns they have noticed in their life (failed relationships) or symptoms they have experienced (ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar). Veterans may request an evaluation to complete their DBQ form to support their claim for disability benefits.

Stress

Life can be difficult and full of situations that are difficult to deal with. Stressful situations may occur at work, at home, or with our friends and family. People often struggle with stress and may experience both physical and emotional symptoms. These may include low energy, headaches, upset stomach and nausea, body aches and pains, rapid heartbeat, difficulty falling and staying asleep, and loss of sexual desire and/or ability.

Anxiety

It's a normal part of life to experience occasional worry and anxiety. But sometimes people may experience anxiety that seems uncontrollable and overwhelming. People are often overly concerned about money, health, family, work, or school. If it’s an excessive, irrational dread of everyday situations, it can be disabling. When anxiety interferes with daily activities, it may be an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders are real, serious medical conditions - just as real and serious as physical disorders such as heart disease or diabetes. Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental disorders in the United States.

Depression

Everyone feels down and sad during difficult life situations. When these feelings of sadness continue, they can lead to a range of behavioral and physical symptoms. These may include changes in sleep, appetite, energy level, concentration, daily behavior, loss of interest or pleasure in activities, loss of sexual desire and/or ability, crying, and lowered self-esteem. Depression can also be associated with thoughts of suicide.

Relationship/Family Problems

While people may love and value their family and relationships, they can also be challenging and difficult to handle at times. People may experience problems dealing with their partners/spouses, parenting their children, or dealing with their own parents or extended family. These problems can cause symptoms of Anxiety, Depression, or even Anger which can be difficult to control.

What can I expect from therapy?

During therapy, we will develop goals that are unique and specific to your own needs. Each session we will discuss your current symptoms and how you are feeling, adjusting goals as needed. You will learn new coping strategies specific to your unique situation. Between sessions, you may be asked to try to use those strategies in your day to day life to help you deal with difficult situations.

How often are therapy sessions scheduled?

Individual sessions are scheduled based on your unique needs. Typically, sessions are initially scheduled every week. As your symptoms improve, sessions may be scheduled every other week or once a month. Together, we will decide when therapy may be terminated.

What issues does Dr. Lanza treat?

While my main specialties are Depression, Anxiety, and Psychological Evaluations, I am also well-versed to treat a wide range of emotional issues:

  • Adjustment Issues (work, life transitions, adjustment to disability counseling)

  • Autism Spectrum Disorder (formerly known as Asperger’s Disorder)

  • Behavior Problems

  • Bipolar Disorder

  • Couples Counseling

  • Divorce/Separation

  • Elderly/Geriatric Issues

  • Family and Parenting Issues

  • Fitness for Duty Evaluations

  • Grief and Loss

  • Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

  • Life Transitions (marriage, parenting, moving, job loss, etc.)

  • Pre-Employment Screenings

  • Peer Relationship Problems

  • Personality Disorders

  • Psychological Testing and Evaluations

  • Relationship Issues (parent-child, sibling, co-workers, etc)

  • Self-Esteem Issues

  • Social Skills Issues

  • Veteran's evaluations (DBQ forms)

  • Weight Loss counseling

Is therapy and/or psychological testing covered by my insurance?

Dr. Lanza does not accept insurance payments for her services. You are encouraged to check with your insurance company to see if you may be eligible for reimbursement using Out of Network benefits. Insurance invoices are provided for submission of reimbursement upon request.

You are responsible for full payment at the time of service. Cash and all major credit cards are accepted.

How does the HIPAA privacy rule apply to psychological services?

Please click here to view a copy of Dr. Lanza's HIPAA Notice of Privacy Practices.

Should I schedule an in-office or Teletherapy session?

Teletherapy sessions are not only proven by research to be as effective as traditional face-to-face therapy sessions, they are also very convenient with no travel time and increased flexibility for scheduling appointments from your home or office. But, Teletherapy is not for everyone. Sometimes individuals do not have the technology or a private space to have their sessions. Or they may feel uncomfortable with those they live with potentially knowing they are having a Teletherapy session. Also, some treatment issues are more appropriate for in-office sessions. Please give Dr. Lanza a call to discuss your unique needs to determine if Teletherapy is the right choice for your treatment.

Ready to take your next step?

Request an appointment today by calling 858-414-3523 or

emailing us at drlanza@lanzapsychology.com