FAQs
Why did Dr. Gould choose the name Balanced Psychiatric Solutions for her practice?
I believe that many difficulties arise when emotions, thoughts, or behaviors are out of balance. For example, we all experience sadness and anxiety. However, when these emotions are too strong or too persistent, our ability to function can become seriously compromised. Significant problems can also occur when emotions, thoughts, and behaviors are either over-controlled or under-controlled. Sometimes these issues are primarily related to underlying biology or genetics. Other times, past life experiences, traumas, current life stress, and/or physical health issues play a major role. I feel it is essential to look at each of these factors and explore treatment options that can help restore a more natural balance.
Why don’t you take insurance?
The decision not to contract with insurance companies was a difficult one as I, like most people, depend upon insurance for my personal healthcare. Insurance plans, however, often have restrictions on mental health and psychiatric benefits that can significantly limit care and treatment options. It is extremely important to me that the treatment I recommend for you/your family member is based upon what is clinically indicated and not ‘driven’ by insurance companies.
Are there ways I may be able to use my insurance to help with costs of psychiatric care through Balanced Psychiatric Solutions (BPS)?
Yes. While BPS does not file for insurance on your behalf, we will provide you with documentation (often called a ‘superbill’) you can submit to your insurance provider for reimbursement of any benefit your plan qualifies you for. This typically requires that your insurance plan includes ‘out of network’ benefits.
Are there privacy issues associated with filing for insurance reimbursement?
Yes. Insurance companies typically require the ‘superbill’ include information regarding your diagnosis and services received. While not routine, insurance companies may also request your records to verify services provided.
Dr. Gould’s profile says she is trained in DBT. What is DBT?
DBT stands for Dialectical Behavior Therapy. DBT is an evidenced based therapy developed by Marsha Linehan, Ph.D. that incorporates cognitive (behavioral) therapy, mindfulness principles, and dialectical strategies. Numerous studies have shown DBT to be an effective treatment for persons suffering from problems with emotional regulation and related difficulties including depression, eating issues, behavior control problems, anxiety & trauma, self-injury, and suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
What are the components of comprehensive DBT?
Standard or comprehensive DBT includes four modes of therapy:
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Individual Therapy with a DBT trained therapist. -
DBT Skills Training – typically done in a group setting; groups should meet weekly and generally last 90 or 120 minutes. -
Phone Coaching – your DBT therapist should be available to you for between session DBT coaching calls. These calls are essential to help you use skills you have learned ‘in the moment’ BEFORE you engage in problematic behaviors. -
DBT Consultation Team – your DBT therapist (not you) is required to participate on a DBT consultation team to improve their clinical skills. Therapists who are not participating on a DBT consultation team are not considered to be providing DBT.
Does Dr. Gould provide comprehensive DBT in her practice?
No. While Dr. Gould has had extensive training in DBT (including 10-day intensive training through Behavioral Tech and 5-day advanced intensive training with Dr. Linehan) and experience delivering DBT, she does not provide all the components of standard DBT in her current practice.
What questions can I ask to see if a therapist has adequate training and is providing comprehensive DBT?
The following questions may be helpful (the answer to each should be ‘yes’ for comprehensive DBT). Dr. Gould may also be able to assist you in finding a qualified DBT therapist.