FAQ
Daphna Steier, Psy.D.
Licensed Psychologist
818 12th Ave
Seattle, WA 98122
ph: 206-525-9665
email: daphnasteier@msn.com
 | What is a psychologist? How are you different then a psychiatrist, therapist or counselor? |
| Is everything confidential? |
| What if I need to take medication? |
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Q. What is a psychologist? How are you different from a psychiatrist, therapist, or counselor?
A. A psychologist is a trained professional who combines background in scientific methods with training in clinical skills to work with people on psychological issues. Psychologists most often have over six years of training and education beyond college and hold a doctoral degree. Licensure requires a one year clinical internship and one year of post doctoral experience. Psychologists often provide testing and evaluation of people on a wide range of topics. Psychologists are bound to work under the laws of the state in which they are licensed.
Psychiatrists are medical doctors whose primary training is in medicine. Psychiatrists can prescribe medications and provide therapy. The labels therapist and counselor imply various levels of training and function.
A. In general, yes. Therapist-client communication is considered strictly confidential. There are a few exceptions. At times you may wish that treatment information be released. If authorized by you, in writing, I will release information about your therapy as requested. In addition, Washington State Law requires release of confidential material in cases of suspected abuse, threats of harm to self or others and when a subpoena has been issued.
If you are using insurance, then I would be required to send a diagnosis and basic treatment information to your insurance company.
Q. What if I need to take medication?
A. As a psychologist, I am not qualified to prescribe medication. However, I can discuss with you the need for medication and refer you to a psychiatrist or to a prescribing nurse experienced in mental health. You may also wish to consult with your primary care doctor. With this additional information, we can then discuss in detail the pros and cons of each option. I frequently work with clients taking medication, and find that for some situations the combined effectiveness of therapy and medication can often be greater than that of either medication or therapy alone.
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Daphna Steier, Psy. D.
818 12th Ave
Seattle, WA 98122
ph: 206-525-9665
email: daphnasteier@msn.com