FAQ
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How do evaluations work?
Our evaluations are typically conducted over three sessions: intake, testing, and feedback. The intake is approximately an hour and is done virtually. This is where we will discuss your history, concerns, symptoms, etc. For the testing session, you will come into our Fox Chapel office where we will complete the psychological/ neuropsychological testing. This typically takes several hours. Finally, during the virtual feedback session we will discuss the results, diagnoses (if any), and recommendations/next steps.
What if I need more time for testing?There are cases where an additional testing session is added. Sometimes this is clear and can be scheduled during the intake session, while other times it is not apparent until the first testing appointment. When this happens, typically what happens is the feedback session is changed to an additional testing appointment and then the feedback is rescheduled to a later date.
What assessments will be used during testing?The assessment battery that will be used is dependent on the referral question and the intake session. The psychologist will determine which assessments are necessary and can review them with you after intake/before the testing appointment. Generally speaking, they typically select a cognitive assessment and then narrow-band assessments to evaluate the referral concern.
I have been evaluated before. What is different about an evaluation with The Psychology Loft?
We understand that evaluations, while incredibly informative, can be taxing on the client. Our evaluations are thorough and assess for the presence of a variety of mental health disorders, rather than just one. For example, if someone is referred to our clinic for an ADHD evaluation but another mental health condition is suspected, we assess for both ADHD and explore the presence of the other condition simultaneously. This comprehensive approach allows for accurate diagnosis, and directs treatment for all areas of need.
Where do the evaluations take place?
Our evaluations take place in our Fox Chapel location. You will receive the address via email after the intake appointment.
Do evaluations result in a formal diagnosis?Evaluations do typically result in a formal diagnosis. However, there are cases when an individual’s presenting problem is within normal limits. In these cases, we inform the individual after intake that the evaluation may not result in a diagnosis and then they decide if they want to proceed. In all other cases when a clinical need is indicated, diagnosis is assigned at the conclusion of the evaluation and then reviewed during the feedback session.
How much is the evaluation going to cost the client out-of-pocket?It’s difficult to determine what each client’s out-of-pocket cost for an evaluation will be. This is because each person’s insurance coverage is different. If you contact your insurance company, they will be able to explain your out-of-pocket cost and/or copays for an evaluation.
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Are you currently accepting new patients?
Yes! We are accepting new clients on an ongoing basis and have providers who specialize in a variety of concerns. We encourage you to contact us to discuss whether we are able to meet your needs.
How long is the waitlist?
The waitlist differs depending on the provider you are interested in seeing and the nature of the referral, as well as your insurance. Please contact us to ask about our waitlist.
What therapy modalities are used in sessions?
Our providers have extensive training in various therapeutic modalities including psychodynamic, play, and cognitive therapies, as well as techniques like motivational interviewing. However, a theoretically integrated approach is used with each patient. This means that our providers use components of many types of therapies based on an individuals needs rather than subscribing solely to one modality that may not be exactly what a person needs. Treatment is individualized and specific to each person.
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Are you in-network with my insurance?
We are in-network with most major insurance providers including Highmark, UPMC, Aetna, Cigna, and United. We are also in-network
with Medical Assistance (Medicaid) through the state of Pennsylvania.
Do you accept private pay?Our office does accept private pay for most services.
How far out are you scheduling?Our schedule varies depending on the service and requested provider. Please contact us by phone or email to inquire about our wait times.
What type of training does a pre-doctoral intern have?Pre-doctoral interns have completed all of the course work required to obtain their doctorate, and are completing their clinical hours. They practice under the direct supervision of a licensed psychologist who they meet with regularly for planned supervision.
What is different about The Psychology Loft compared to other organizations?At The Psychology Loft, we place a significant value on a systems-based approach – taking into account how the individual’s family, educational, and community environments interact. Acknowledging the importance that each system plays in an individual’s life is essential to understanding the current needs and approaches that will best serve the person. We also address all referrals with a strengths-based approach and utilize these strategies to create treatment plans and goals.