Frequently Asked Questions:
I have never been to therapy/counseling before. What will it be like?
The process of therapy will differ based on your life circumstances and your goals for treatment. However, many of my clients have told me that have found therapy with me helpful because they feel safe to explore their problems within the context of a relationship where they feel listened to and understood.
I don’t think that I have a mental illness. Could therapy/counseling still be helpful for me?
The short answer is a resounding YES! As a therapist, I tend to reject the “mental illness” model because it has a way of taking our focus off of factors in our lives that can enhance our mental (and overall) health. I prefer to focus on helping people find their inner capacity for healing and growth so that they can lead healthy balanced lives.
I am not yet in my “middle age” years, do you ever work with younger clients?
I love working with younger adult clients who are looking to make significant changes in their lives.
I have found that early mid-life is when many people begin to reflect on long-standing problems in their lives, as well as how these problems may impact their later life. While this is true for many, some people arrive at points of self-reflection much earlier or later in life. I am happy to help these people improve their present lives and plan for a better future.
I am no longer in midlife, do you ever work with older clients?
Of course! It is never too late to make important changes in your life, to create a better future.
Is therapy confidential?
Therapy and psychological assessments are confidential, with the exception of a few rare circumstances. I am required to break confidentiality if you represent a threat to yourself or other people. I am also required to report any abuse of children or the elderly. I am also able to share information about your treatment if you provide a written consent to do so. Such releases can be ended at any time by notifying the Center for the Connected Self in writing.
What forms of payment do you accept?
I currently accept cash, checks, and major credit cards. Payment is due at the end of each session. If you chose to pay cash, please bring the exact amount as Dr. Dooley is unable to provide change. Any excess payment can be applied towards your next session. Please note that there is a $35 fee for bounced checks or late payments.
What is your cancellation policy?
If you need to cancel or change an appointment, please do so at least 24 hours in advance of your scheduled appointment. You will be charged for any sessions that are not cancelled with at least 24 hours notice. In the event of unforeseen circumstances (e.g. emergencies, unexpected illness, etc.) this late cancellation fee may be waived, however, the decision to waive the fee is at Dr. Dooley’s sole discretion.
What should I do if I am feeling suicidal or cannot keep myself safe?
Please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.
What is your fee?
Initial sessions are $175 for a 55 minute session. Subsequent, 45 minute sessions are $150 per session for individual therapy and $175 per session for couple’s therapy. Please see my fees and insurance page for more detailed information.
Do you accept insurance?
I am not currently “in network” with any insurance companies.. However, I can provide clients with a “superbill” that you can submit to your insurance company for reimbursement, if you have out-of-network benefits.
Please note that you are responsible for all fees associated with your treatment, at the time of service, regardless of your level of out-of-network coverage. Please review your insurance information carefully.
Are you able to prescribe medication?
As a psychologist I am unable to prescribe medication. Only a medical doctor, such as a psychiatrist can legally prescribe medication. However, I would be happy, with your consent, to consult with your doctor or psychiatrist.
What is the difference between a Psychiatrist, Psychologist, and a Registered Psychotherapist?
Psychiatrists have a medical degree (MD or DO), which allows them to prescribe medication. Though some psychiatrists have received advanced training to perform psychotherapy, most psychiatrists only offer medication management.
Psychologists have a doctorate degree in psychology (either PsyD or PhD). They have had between 5-6 years of advanced education and training. In order to be licensed as a psychologist in the state of Colorado, psychologists must work accrue a minimum of 1500 supervised hours of post-degree experienced in the field of psychology.
Registered Psychotherapists, who were formerly referred to as “unlicensed therapists” by the state of Colorado, are not required to meet any education or experience requirements, beyond a GED, and their work does not need to be supervised by a licensed professional.