Where is your office located?
What is a first session like?
What are your specialty areas?
What is your theoretical approach?
Do you take insurance?
What's your policy on confidentiality?
What if I want to see a different therapist?

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.


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