Common Questions

How do I know if I need therapy?

Have you noticed that you are not feeling like yourself? (e.g. sleeping more/less, eating more/less, socializing less, moody, not able to focus, using drugs or alcohol more)
Are you having more difficulty managing your life at work or school? (e.g. tardiness, forgetful, overwhelmed, avoiding class)
Are you feeling unsatisfied in your relationships with family, romantic partners, co-workers or others?
Have your friends/family suggested that you get some help?

If you have answered ‘yes’ to any of these questions, therapy could be helpful for you. Answering ‘yes’ does not mean you are ‘weak,’ ‘incompetent,’ or ‘incapable.’ In fact, recognizing that you may need support at this time of your life means the opposite. It takes wisdom to recognize your needs and do what it takes to meet them. Strength lies in one’s capacity to be vulnerable – think about it.

Will it be worth my time/energy/money?

Therapy is not cheap! I am obviously biased when I say ‘yes’. However, generally speaking, research has found that a majority of people are measurably improved after therapy. For some people, 1-3 sessions is sufficient. For others, therapy will be an ongoing process, similar to maintaining physical health. Depending on what your needs are right now, you may want a brief therapy experience to learn skills and cope with something specific, or you may want a longer term therapy experience to address chronic challenges.

There are so many therapists, how do I know which one to choose?

Go “therapist shopping.” Similar to shopping for a car, the right gym, or a physical therapist, etc., I encourage everyone to speak to a few therapists before deciding on one. Each therapist is their own unique blend of educational background, worldviews, interpersonal style, belief systems and values, and theoretical orientation — so not every therapist is a good fit for every client. Take time to speak with a few to gauge who would best fit your needs. Also, don’t feel pressured to start seeing the first therapist you meet. If you can, try speaking to a few like you would a medical doctor when you want a second opinion.

If a therapist graduated from an Ivy League/prestigious university, that must mean they are the best, right?

This may or may not be true. But keep in mind that finding a good therapist for you is not about finding a clinician who graduated from a prestigious university – it’s more about finding someone who can meet your needs and who is a good fit for you.

What’s the difference between an M.D., MFCC, LMFT, PsyD, PhD and LCSW?

If you are curious about the difference between various mental health credentials, the National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI) has information you can review. People with any of these credentials can provide counseling or therapy as long as they are licensed (or working under the supervision of a licensed clinician) in the state in which you reside.

Does Dr. Young accept insurance?

While I don’t accept insurance, many of my clients are reimbursed a percentage of the fee by their health insurance. I provide a superbill, which is a document that consists of medical codes and other pieces of information, which can be submitted to your health insurance company for reimbursement. This type of reimbursement is when you use “out-of-network” providers. To be sure you have this coverage, please contact your insurance company and ask about your plan’s “out-of-network” coverage. Clients are reimbursed anywhere from 0 to 85% of the fee. For example, if my fee is $200 and you receive 80% coverage, that means you will only pay $40 out of pocket per session.

What is EMDR therapy?

EMDR stands for “eye-movement desensitization reprocessing” therapy. The international association of EMDR (EMDRIA) has updated information about this type of therapy. EMDR is a trauma focused treatment that differs from traditional “talk therapy” or psychotherapy. Techniques are used in a specific protocol to help people experiencing symptoms of PTSD heal from difficult events. Certified EMDR therapists undergo supervised professional training using this treatment protocol and must complete continuing education annually in order to maintain their certification.

I may not have answered all of your questions but I hope that this has been useful. To find out more about more information about my practice, read on or contact me. You can also browse my referral network for a list of other professionals to whom I frequently refer.

Thank you,

Jennifer T. Young | Licensed Psychologist
STATE OF CALIFORNIA| PSY 24664
WASHINGTON D.C. | PSY 1001223