WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU COME TO OUR OFFICE...

Each client is treated with respect and dignity. No matter how embarrassed
you may feel about your "needs," problems, habits or behaviors, we will do our best to make you feel that you are "special," and try to understand your reality. However, it may not always be possible for us to endorse or validate your perceptions it we do not feel that is warranted. You will be educated as to what procedures and ethics we must follow, and in particular try to head off misunderstandings about payments, appropriate "boundaries" which must be kept between patient and therapist, the limits of our expertise and professional competencies. Part of maintaining boundaries is our right to keep our own personal life private and separate from the client, only sharing personal information where I believe it to be appropriate. However, if we do not feel that we can help you, or for any other reason feel that there is not a good "fit" between your needs and expectations with what we have to offer here, we retain the right to not accept you as a patient, or later terminate your therapy and refer you to another therapist, physician, or other professional. Although we may discuss your medical problems with you, we cannot recommend specific medical treatments or medications. A separation must also be kept between helping you problem solve, or "therapy" or treatments' and expert or legal opinions, reports, and custody evaluations.

Unless clearly stated in writing, you personally are responsible for the payments, even if "third party" insurers, law firms, or other entities are involved. Payment is nominally expected in full at each session, unless other arrangements have been made. We participate with Medicare and other insurance programs, but you are responsible to give us accurate information about your insurances, means of verifying insurance coverage, and we expect you to cooperate. You also need to understand that some loss of privacy is involved whenever a third party is billed, and they will require some information about your treatments here such as a diagnosis, and treatment methods. In legal cases, auto accidents, or where workers compensation insurance is involved, detailed reports may have to be provided.

An assessment is made at the first session, employing brief psychological testing typically employed. A range of objective psychological testing is available. We have the capability of scoring many of the best know psychological tests using the NCS Microtest Q scoring system. Clients are usually given a forty-five minute in depth interview to explain themselves. Feedback is given to the client at the end of this session as to what the strengths and needs of the client are, and what help can be offered. If possible, a plan of change or "treatment plan" is developed, and strategies to accomplish goals are suggested.

To effectively evaluate a family, relationship, or marriage, both spouses, or parents and children, need to be seen. This is usually done together but can also include separate visits. Rules of confidentiality must be clearly defined in these situations where more than one person is considered to be a "client" or when a spouse or minor child is involved.

As a member the American Psychological Association, 1 receive up to date professional journals, and have access to the entire library of APA Journals and its entire database of research. Research is carried out with respect for the confidentiality and privacy of the client.

Professional Affiliations and Continuing Education

Dr. Taylor is active with the Pennsylvania Psychological Association, participates in the annual conventions of PPA and APA, and takes many hours of continuing professional education every year. Dr. Taylor maintains the highest ethical and professional standards in his practice, and takes several Continuing Education Courses in ethics every year. Dr. Taylor practices what he preaches by maintaining balance between his practice, community service, family life and exercises daily for mental and physical fitness.