EVMS Center for Cognitive
Therapy
Clinical Services
Clinical services are offered through the
EVMS Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. Patients can
elect to see faculty or trainees depending on their preferences and
resources. However, all patients seen at the center receive cognitive
therapy.
What is Cognitive Therapy?
Cognitive therapy (CBT), developed by
Aaron Beck, M.D., is based on the concept that how we think about
situations influences our emotions, physical reactions and behavior.
Individuals learn how to evaluate and challenge their distressing
thoughts related to negative moods, e.g., depression, anxiety, and
irritability. Problem solving and behavior change are also emphasized.
How are appointments made?
Office hours are 8 a.m. until 6 p.m.,
Monday-Friday. Appointments are scheduled at 446-5888 by requesting
services through the Center for Cognitive Therapy.
What are therapy sessions like?
At the first visit, patients complete
patient information and consent forms, as well as brief mood
questionnaires. Then, an evaluation is conducted to determine whether
cognitive therapy would be beneficial. If so, at the onset of each
subsequent session the therapist asks the patient about their mood and
goals for treatment. The sessions focus on discussing problems
identified and assessing the accuracy of the beliefs the patient has
about these problems. New skills for coping with problems are taught and
practiced in day to day life. The therapy involves active participation
on the part of the patient and therapist.
What is the financial policy?
Payment is expected at the time of the
appointment. Our office accepts assignment of insurance benefits, but
patients are responsible for deductibles and co-payments. Uninsured
patients can request to be seen by trainees at a reduced fee.
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