Where
is your office located?
Laurel Lippert, Ph.D.
8235 Santa Monica Blvd. 4th Floor
West Hollywood, CA 90046
MapQuest Directions
323.252.3081
Laurel@LAshrink.com
What
is a first session like?
It is normal to be a little anxious about meeting a potential therapist
for the first time. Most clients find that they feel more relaxed
once the session gets underway. I recommend that you arrive about
10 minutes prior to our first session to give you time to read over
and fill out some simple paperwork. In the first session, I answer
any questions you might have and then we talk about some of the
reasons you are seeking therapy right now. I generally take some
notes during the first session and will ask you some questions about
yourself. After the first session, I generally do not take notes
during sessions.
What
are your specialty areas?
While I have been trained to work with a wide variety of issues,
clients who are likely to benefit most from working with me are
those interested in personal growth and gaining self-awareness.
Examining relationship patterns and family history is a common focus
along with understanding and managing difficult emotions and mood
states (such as stress, depression, anxiety, anger and excessive
worry).
What
is your theoretical approach?
My approach is largely influenced by humanistic and psychodynamic
theories of human development. I believe that people's experiences
in their families of origin are often very helpful to consider when
understanding current relationship patterns, coping styles, and
emotional/mood states.
Do
you take insurance?
I have chosen to not deal directly with any insurance companies
nor be listed as a provider on any insurance panels. However, you
may choose to utilize your insurance benefits if you have a policy
that provides reimbursement for "out of network" providers.
In this case, you would pay me directly and the receipts I provide
at the end of each session can be submitted to your insurance company.
The portion of my fee your company will reimburse is determined
by your particular plan. I recommend you contact your insurance
company if you have questions about your coverage.
What's
your policy on confidentiality?
To the degree allowed by law, information about your contact with
me will not be disclosed to anyone without your written release
to do so. Communication between you, the client, and myself (and
between me and anyone you authorize me to contact) is protected
by confidentiality regulations as stipulated by law and by professional
standards and ethics. In certain situations, however, I may not
be able to maintain complete confidentiality. While these situations
are rare, it is important that you are aware of them. Exceptions
to confidentiality are outlined in the policies and procedures sheet
you will receive at our first session. I would be happy to discuss
any questions you have about confidentiality prior to or during
our first session.
What
if I want to see a different therapist?
It is important to me that you find a therapist that feels like
a good fit for you. If you decide to not work with me, I will respect
and support your decision. I will also let you know if I feel you
would be better served by another therapist.