FAQs

Q: Does CBC accept insurance?

Although we do not participate with any insurance companies, the services provided are often reimbursable through your insurance plan through out-of-network benefits. If you are interested in learning about what your plan covers, call the number on your insurance card and ask what is covered for an out-of-network provider who is providing the services in which you are engaging (individual therapy, family therapy, or group therapy). Remember to ask if you have a deductible and what they consider the maximum allowable reimbursement. All services are billed directly to the client. Full payment is expected at the time of service. On a monthly basis, you will be provided with a statement that contains all of the necessary information that is required by insurance companies. You can submit this bill to the insurance company to be compensated through your out-of-network benefits.

Q: Do CBT and DBT Work?

Research has shown that CBT and DBT are effective treatments for a wide range of problems, including: depression, generalized anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic attacks, agoraphobia, post-traumatic stress disorder, social anxiety and other phobias, relationship and marital problems, parent-child relationship conflicts, behavioral problems, personality disorder, suicidal and non-suicidal self injurious behaviors, borderline personality disorder, habit problems, procrastination, and other stress-related disorders. The overwhelming majority of patients who seek out CBT and DBT find it to be quite helpful. Most patients find it significantly more problem-focused and active than previous therapies they have tried.

Q: What is the advantage of CBT and DBT?

• Proven effective. There are hundreds of research studies demonstrating that CBT and DBT are effective treatments. For many disorders, CBT and DBT are more effective treatment than other forms of psychotherapy and is equivalent to medication.
• Short-term. CBT and DBT achieve results quickly. The course of treatment tends to be considerably shorter than for traditional approaches to psychotherapy.
• Cost-effective. These active and focused psychotherapeutic approaches makes the cost of treatment less expensive than other forms of treatment. The focus on skill building and client independence minimizes the length of treatment and reduces the risk of relapse.
• Lasting results. CBT and DBT provide many practical strategies that can be used even when therapy is over to cope with life more effectively.

Q: How long is a typical course of treatment in CBT and DBT?

While it is hard to predict how long successful treatment will take since it depends upon many factors, a “typical” course of CBT is between four to six months of weekly sessions but can take longer depending on the problem. DBT is often longer and takes at least six months to a year.

Generally speaking, the more specific one’s problem is, the shorter the treatment will be. Problems that tend to be generalized and long-standing often take longer to resolve, as treatment requires changing ingrained patterns. Regardless of how long the treatment will take, it is important to note that you should feel some improvement within the first few treatment sessions, and you should see progress.

Q: How do I decide if I should begin treatment with you or with another therapist?

When choosing a therapist, it is important to evaluate the therapist’s credentials to determine the level of expertise in the treatment being provided. As a consumer, you have the right to shop around and ask your potential therapist questions in order to determine whether they are a good match for you.

Each of our clinicians at Cognitive and Behavioral Consultants of Westchester and Manhattan specializes in cognitive behavior therapy and/or dialectical behavior therapy. Specific information about the credentials of each of our dedicated therapists can be found at CBC Staff.

Once you have evaluated a therapist’s credentials, it is also important to schedule a consultation session to determine if you feel comfortable working with him or her. Ensuring a comfortable working relationship with your therapist will go a long way in making the treatment go well.