Frequently asked questions.

Commonly Asked Questions Before Starting With a Therapist

Questions about Therapy

  • We offer individual therapy using evidence-based approaches like CBT, ACT, DBT, and mindfulness-based strategies. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, trauma, OCD, or depression, we tailor treatment to meet your unique needs. Check out our therapies page to learn more.

  • Therapy can help you understand your thoughts, build healthier coping skills, and increase the value you feel in your life. Our team uses research-backed methods like exposure therapy for OCD, trauma-focused techniques for PTSD and mindfulness-based strategies for stress management.

  • CBT focuses on challenging unhelpful thoughts and modifying your behaviors. ACT aims to build acceptance with your emotions and commit to values-driven action. DBT teaches skills for emotion regulation and relationships. Your therapist will review all the options and help develop a scientifically-driven plan to help you achieve your goals. Check out our therapies page to learn more!

  • Your therapist will work with you to understand your needs and preferences. Together, you'll choose a treatment plan based on what works best for you, whether that’s ACT, DBT, CBT, or another modality.

  • Yes! We provide trauma-informed care at both our Tampa and Brandon offices. Our therapists are trained to support healing in a safe, compassionate environment.

  • Most therapy sessions are 50 minutes. This gives us time to check in, explore your concerns, and practice skills without feeling rushed. As you progress in therapy, you and your therapist will discuss any changes in length of sessions to best fit your life and help you reach your goals.

  • It depends on your goals. Some people benefit from short-term therapy (2-5 appointments), while others prefer longer-term work. Your therapist will work with you to create a timeline that makes sense for your needs. Communication between you and your therapist is crucial for the success in therapy. Throughout your work in therapy, you and your therapist will routinely check in to assess for progress and determine if any changes in focus are needed.

  • We offer both! Some clients come for a few weeks to few months, while others stay for a year or more. The length of therapy depends on your goals, progress, and preferences.

Questions about Assessments/Evaluations

  • We offer assessments for ADHD, autism, learning disorders, and diagnostic clarification. These evaluations help you better understand yourself and guide treatment or educational planning.

  • Yes! We provide autism evaluations for both children and adults. Our assessments are thorough, personalized, and designed to support accurate diagnosis and meaningful recommendations.

  • You’ll complete questionnaires, cognitive tests, and interviews. Our expert clinicians will work to gather as much information, including reports from teachers, family members and work performance. The process helps us understand how attention or learning challenges are affecting you.

  • Testing is typically completed in 1–2 sessions, with a follow-up to review results. The entire process, including the written report, usually takes 2–3 weeks.

  • Yes. Every evaluation includes a comprehensive written report with your results, diagnosis (if applicable), and personalized recommendations.

Finding the right therapist

  • We recommend reviewing our therapist bios to find someone who specializes in your concerns. You can also contact us—we’re happy to match you with the best fit based on your goals and preferences.

  • Absolutely. Finding the right match is important. If something isn’t working, we welcome the opportunity to help you find a therapist who better suits your needs.

  • Your first session is a chance to share your story, ask questions, and set goals. Your therapist will get to know you and begin building a treatment plan that aligns with your values.

Cost and Insurance

  • The clinicians at PGTB believe therapy should be accessible to everyone. This is why we partner with major insurance companies to help lower the cost of appointments. The cost for appointments vary depending on the provider, the service and your insurance company. We’ll provide detailed information before your first session and are happy to answer questions about cost and value.

  • Yes! The Psychology Group of Tampa Bay is in network with Cigna, Florida Blue and United Healthcare and partners with these companies to help create a smooth process so you can put your focus on your work in therapy. Please note, each of these insurance providers are a large company with several subsidiaries - all of which PGTB is also in network with. Not sure if we participate with your insurance? Reach out and we will be more than happy to find out.

  • If we are not in network with your specific plan, you may qualify for out-of-network reimbursement. In these situations, we give you a detailed receipt (superbill) that you can submit directly to your insurance provider. Our admin staff is happy to walk you through the process!

  • The clinicians at PGTB believe that everyone should be able to access therapy. We have worked to create low-cost options for community members who are in a tight financial situation. Reach out to learn more about available options.

Locations

  • Yes! We have physical offices in both Tampa and Brandon, where we offer in-person therapy, assessments and consultation.

  • Yes - whether you are local or elsewhere in Florida, we offer both in-person and telehealth options to fit your schedule and comfort.

  • All of our clinicians are licensed in the state of Florida and, outside of a few specific circumstances, can only practice within the state of Florida. Some clinicians are part of PsyPact, which allows them to practice in other states. If you have questions about this, please reach out!

  • Absolutely! We provide secure, HIPAA-compliant virtual therapy to clients anywhere in Florida. It’s a flexible, effective option for many people.

  • Yes. Research shows that telehealth therapy can be just as effective as in-person treatment for many concerns, including OCD, trauma, and anxiety.

  • Some parts of testing can be done remotely. Depending on the type of assessment, we may offer hybrid or in-person options for best accuracy.

  • You can call, email, or use our contact form to schedule. We’ll help you find the right therapist and the best time that works for you.