Frequently Asked Questions
How long are sessions?
New patient session are typically 60 minutes.
Follow up sessions are 45-50 minutes.
Where do we meet?
At this time all services are conveniently offered virtually. You will meet via a secure video platform that is free to you and easy to use. You are encouraged to set up your device in a private, quiet place and make yourself comfortable. In-person sessions can be discussed on a case by case basis.
Who should attend the first session?
Dr. Miller values a collaborative approach and views caregivers as the experts. It is often helpful to have caregivers join with their child for the first visit for at least part of the visit to help their child feel comfortable, model how to use Telehealth, provide valuable background information, and for parents to hear their child's point of view on the presenting problem. If indicated, caregivers may step out and allow the child to meet individually for a portion of the intake.
Children under 14 are required to have a caregiver present during the first session.
What is the frequency and duration of therapy?
Therapy is goal oriented and Dr. Miller's goal is for you to become your own therapist. Therapy may be brief for a very specific problem, a traditional course of 8-12 session, or there may be indications that you need more time. Longer term care may be indicated when there is a chronic illness and ongoing psychological support is necessary.
We will continually check in on your progress and openly discuss the length of treatment.
Usually we begin by meeting weekly, then decreasing in frequency as you experience improvements. Eventually, you may only need booster sessions depending on progress and status of the medical condition/treatment.
What is the first session like?
The first session is collaborative and includes many question to learn about your journey and goals for the future. Dr. Miller will introduce herself and then provide you space to explain the reasons for seeking therapy. There will be many follow-up questions to gain a comprehensive understanding of how you are functioning psychologically, physically, socially, and academically. Everyone has areas of strength and areas for improvement, and learning about them will help to formulate specific goals for treatment. You will also have the opportunity to ask questions.
What are the payment options?
Payment is due in full at the time of service. A super-bill can be provided upon request for you to submit to your insurance company for your out-of-network benefits. Check with your insurance company to verify your coverage.
What is your schedule?
Dr. Miller is available during daytime weekday hours. A school or work note will be provided if needed. Any scheduling concerns can be problem solved together. Therapy can improve academic and social functioning which makes the temporary and brief time sacrifice worth the long term results.
What type of therapy do you provide?
-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): The gold standard, evidence based psychological treatment for anxiety and depression across the lifespan, and many medically-based problems. CBT revolves around how our thoughts, feelings (emotions and physical sensations) and actions are connected and lead to certain outcomes.
-Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) focuses on supporting the pursuit of your values in life, and making this attainable even while experiencing mental health or physical symptoms. Increasing participation in meaningful activities is a significant factor in mental health functioning.
-Brain-Gut Connection: Focuses on how your brain and body are connected, how to re-gain control of your nervous system, and re-wire your body's natural fight or flight response with the use of tangible coping skills including mindfulness, and relaxation skills.