FAQs

What is psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy is the provision by qualified practitioners of a formal and professional relationship within which a client can profitably explore life challenges or other difficult, and often painful, emotions and experiences. These may include feelings of anxiety, depression, trauma, or perhaps the loss of meaning in one's life. These challenges may be simply a searching for direction in making life choices. It is a process which seeks to help the person gain an increased capacity for choice, through which the individual becomes more autonomous and self determined. Psychotherapy may be provided for individuals or children, couples, families and groups.

What is the difference between a social worker, a psychologist, and a psychiatrist?

Social workers, psychologists, and psychiatrists are all fully trrained mental health professionals, licensed by the state, and experienced in a range of mental health treatment modlities. A clinical social worker has received the MSW degree which includes training, and several years supervised experience in a number of mental health settings with particular emphasis on evaluatiung the person within the social context in which he or she functions. A psychologist has received the Ph.D. or Psy.D. degree which includes an internship in a mental health setting. Psychologists are also trained in psychological testing. A psychiatrist is a physician with an M.D. degree with post-doctoral training and specialiuzation in mental health. Psychiatrists may prescribe medication.

What if I need medication in addition to therapy?

Psychologists and social workers do not prescribe medication but we work closely with psychiatrists and other physicians who do. If it appears that medication might be appropriate for you, the therapist will discuss this with you and recommend that you speak with a physician to schedule an evaluation. If you wish (and sign appropriate consent) your therapist can speak with the physician to assist the doctor in determining the right intervention.

How do I make an appointment with a Spectrum provider?

Simply call the Spectrum main number, 860-246-7999. A clinician or office manager will take your basic information and a brief description of your concern and will get in touch with our panel of providers to see who may be available. You will be contacted again, usually the same day, with one or more clinicians who are able to see you. You may then contact a provider directly to schedule a specific appointment.

How quickly can I be seen?

Depending on the limitations of your schedule and the schedules of our providers, you can usually be seen within 24-48 hours. If there are scheduling constraints (time of day, days of the week, etc.) the wait time may be longer.

Does Spectrum take my insurance?

The psychologists and social workers at Spectrum Psychotherapy Centers are on a variety of health insurance panels. Check our list here, or all or email to find out if your insurance carrier covers our services. You may also want to call your mental health network number which is usually on the back of the insurance card.