Shaalon Joules PhD PLLC

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need therapy?

Everyone experiences stress and obstacles in their lives. Major life changes, such as marriage, divorce, or death of a loved one can be difficult to adjust to or trigger feelings of anxiety or depression. Even if you've been successful in handling life changes in the past, sometimes the challenges of life can become overwhelming and people need an environment where they can discuss things privately. In other instances, people have chronic psychological problems that they want to address.

How will therapy help me?

No mental health professional can guarantee success in treatment. However, therapy is a chance for you to learn how to problem-solve or cope appropriately to various challenges or situations. It is up to you to decide to apply what you learn. Therapy can help you learn how to manage anger, depression, anxiety, change your thoughts or behaviors, improve your self-esteem, and communicate with others.

What is the difference between a psychologist and psychiatrist?

A psychologist goes to graduate school to get a Ph.D. while a psychiatrist goes to medical school to get an M.D. In Texas, psychologists cannot prescribe medication.

What can I expect during treatment?

Our training is in cognitive-behavioral therapy. We believe in creating a caring and respectful environment. We help clients identify and change negative thoughts, which influences how you feel and behave. Sometimes you will have to do certain exercises, such as keeping a log or reading an article. Also, while we will discuss your problems and ways to cope during the therapy session, it is important that you apply what you learn between sessions. This means you will have to start using various coping techniques in your daily routine and actively make changes in your life. We like to collaborate with our clients, which means they are active participants in treatment and choose goals for themselves.

How long does treatment last?

This depends on the individual and the type of issue he/she is dealing with. It also depends on insurance.

How long does each session last?

Typically, sessions last 45 minutes.

What are my insurance benefits?

To know if your insurance offers mental health benefits, call the number on the back of your insurance card. Ask what your coverage (deductible and/or copay) is for outpatient mental health services.

When is the deposit collected?

The deposit is collected at the time of the first session.

Is the deposit refundable?

If a patient completes therapy or decides not to return after any number of sessions (without a no show or late cancellation), the $75 will be refunded.

The late cancellation fee can be avoided by calling the office or sending an email (at least 24 hours before your scheduled appointment) informing that you will not be able to attend.

Do you complete disability forms?

No. We do not complete forms for long-term or short-term disability.

Do you do custody evaluations or other evaluations for court?

No. We do not conduct child evaluations for custody or visitation-related matters in divorce or post-divorce legal proceedings. Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists regulatory rules prohibit a treating psychologist from offering recommendations to a court regarding these matters or any other matter requiring an expert forensic opinion.