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Kerri
L. Golding LCSW |
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Frequently
Asked Questions 1. What will happen in my first session? 2. How long will it take before my problems get better? 3. Can you test for ADHD? 4. Do you prescribe medication? 5. What is an LCSW? 6. How do I make an appointment? 1.What will happen in my first session? Your first appointment will last anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour and will be used for an assessment of your situation. I will begin by asking what has caused you to seek counseling, and will gather pertinent history. The purpose of the assessment is to evaluate your situation and make recommendations to you regarding how to proceed. Typically, I meet with parents and children together at the first session. Often times in the initial interview, we discuss matters that may be inappropriate for children. If this occurs, I will meet for a portion of the session with the parents individually. Likewise, sometimes children feel more comfortable speaking without their parents present. I may ask to meet with the child individually as well. 2. How long will it take before my problems get better? The length of time an individual is in counseling varies greatly, depending on the nature of the problem and the level of participation. It can range from a few weeks to a year or more. Most people begin to see significant improvement in three to six months. Please keep in mind that most emotional and/or relationship problems have evolved over several years, and it is unrealistic to expect them to be solved quickly. In most cases, sessions are scheduled weekly and then spaced farther apart as your goals begin to be met. I always ask for your input regarding when you would like to return and when you would like to end services. 3. Can you test for ADHD? Yes and no. There is not a true test for ADHD, so No I can not test for ADHD. However, yes I can evaluate for ADHD and make a diagnosis. ADHD is diagnosed by assessing for certain diagnostic criteria or symptoms and ruling out other causes for these behaviors (ie learning disabilities, adjustment difficulties, anxiety). An ADHD evaluation typically consists of obtaining a thorough history, observing behaviors during session, and gathering data from teachers and parents or spouses via evaluation forms. It typically takes three sessions to make an accurate diagnosis, but may require more or less time depending on the individual. Once a diagnosis is made, I will provide a consultation summary to physicians, schools, and any other requested parties and will work with you to determine how to best manage the condition. 4. Do you prescribe medication? No, only a psychiatrist or your doctor can prescribe medication. Although I understand that people will at times need medications I believe it is also important to participate in counseling, especially if children are involved. If medication is needed, I can refer you to a qualified psychiatrist or physician and work collaboratively with them. If a psychiatrist or other practitioner is already involved, I will work with them as well. 5. What is an LCSW? Licensed Clinical Social Workers meet educational and training requirements including at least a Master's degree, three years of supervised professional clinical experience and successful completion of a state examination. After receiving licensure, LCSWs are required to earn 35 continuing education units bi-annually to maintain their status. Licensed Clinical Social Workers are regulated by the State of Georgia and accountable to the Georgia Composite Board of Professional Counselors, Marriage and Family Therapists and Social Workers. LCSWs work in a variety of settings with children, adolescents and adults in short or long-term therapy based on clients needs. In addition, LCSWs are able to involuntarily hospitalize those deemed in danger of hurting themselves or someone else. 6. How do I make an appointment? Call 404 849-6586. I am often not immediately available to receive phone calls but my phone will be answered by confidential voicemail. I will make every effort to return your call on the same day you make it with the exception of weekends and holidays. Please be sure to leave the best times to return your call. You can also try emailing me at kerrigolding@georgiatherapy.org. I LOOK FORWARD TO WORKING WITH YOU! |
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