This information was prepared by the Pennsylvania Psychological Association (and adapted by Drs. Dubrow-Marshall and Eichel) and may be reproduced and distributed freely.

There have always been situations that can cause emotional stress --

• divorce
• job stress
• a death in the family
• alcohol or drug abuse
• raising children.

Job stress

• Getting laid off, or worrying about it
• Fewer people doing the same amount of work
• Uncertainty
• Constant change
• Demanding bosses

Family and relationship problems

• Trying to make a marriage work
• Troubled teenagers
• Children with behavior problems or learning disabilities
• Caring for young children and aging parents
• Challenges of dual careers
• Loneliness

Serious illnesses: the mind-body connection

• Preventing physical illnesses that are caused by stress
• Recovering from a life&emdash;threatening illness
• Learning how to live with a chronic disease or chronic pain

Psychologists study the science of human behavior, and are trained to work with people who have real life problems. Psychologists spend an average of 7.2 years--in addition to their undergraduate college degree--in education and training. Psychologists are licensed by the State of Pennsylvania.

How does "therapy" work?

Therapy works by helping you look objectively at your behaviors, feelings and thoughts in situations that you find problematic. It helps you to learn more effective ways to cope.

You and your psychologist will identify your goals--what you want to have happen, and how you'll know when you re making progress.

Is therapy included in my insurance health plan coverage?

In most cases,yes. Pennsylvania's Freedom of Choice Law recognizes licensed psychologists as eligiblefor mental health services.

• You should read your policy or contact your insurer to determine the extent of your mental health benefits.
• Ask if the full cost of treatment is covered, or only a part. Inquire if there are limits -- co&emdash;payments, limit on the number of visits, annual or lifetime maximums.
• Find out if there is a group of providers, a "network," from which you must choose or if you can choose any qualified provider. If you can choose any qualified provider, find out what licenses and degrees he or she must have before reimbursement is authorized.

What if I do not have insurance coverage, or the coverage is inadequate?

It's important that you talk with the benefits or human resources manager at your workplace. Let him/her know that you believe mental health services are important, and that you are concerned that you have no coverage or limited coverage. If you belong to a union, talk with your union leaders. Also, many psychologists have a sliding fee scale.

What about confidentiality?

Psychologists are required to respect the privacy of their clients. Today, patients are often asked to approve the release of information in order to obtain insurance reimbursement for their treatment. Your psychologist will only release that information if you sign a release form indicating that you give your approval.

[Please note, however, that your privacy can be compromised if you choose to use managed care insurance benefits. -- LJD & SDE]

How do I choose a psychologist who's right for me?

Once you have the name or names of several psychologists, there are several questions you'll want to ask, including:

• Are you a licensed psychologist?
• What kind of treatment do you feel would be effective for my situation? How long would you expect my treatment to last?
• What are your areas of specialization (i.e., family therapy, marriage counseling, etc.)?
• What are your fees? Will you accept my insurance or HMO coverage? Will you directly bill my insurance company? Do you have a sliding fee scale, or will you set up a payment plan?

It's important that you feel comfortable with the psychologist, since your treatment will involve working together as a team.

To find a psychologist:

All psychologists listed in the telephone yellow pages should be licensed by the Pennsylvania State Board of Psychology, 717-783-7155, and they should be willing to answer questions about their services.

Additional information about psychologists practicing in your area may be obtained by contacting the American Psychological Association. Visit APA's World Wide Web Consumer Information Center at http://helping.apa.org.

You can be connected directly to the state or local referral service for your area by calling 1-800-964&emdash;2000.