Counseling & Psychology Resources - Our Services

Psychotherapy: There are a variety of psychological treatment strategies or techniques that can be used in helping a person manage a particular problem. The type of "treatment" depends on the specific problem and the specific needs and characteristics of the client. The initial appointment(s) is critical to gathering background information in order to develop a detailed understanding of the presenting problem. Following the initial assessment a decision can be made in collaboration with the client to best determine what particular treatment approach is likely to be most helpful. Although there are various psychological treatment approaches, Dr. Indenbaum generally employs a more “solution focused” model that works with the client to develop practical strategies to work towards improvement or resolution of the presenting concern. The emphasis is on the utilization of “evidence based” treatment methods such as cognitive-behavioral treatment for depression and anxiety disorders.
Specialized Psychological Evaluations: The psychological evaluation process is specifically designed to address a particular problem or referral question. The process generally includes extended clinical interviewing, administration of selected psychological tests, analysis of test results and corollary information, and preparation of a final written report. The evaluation may address such issues as diagnosis of psychological disorders or to better understand such problems as anger control, anxiety, depression, or personality disorders.
Neuropsychological Evaluation: "Clinical Neuropsychology" is the branch of psychology that concerns itself with brain functioning. Neuropsychological tests are used to measure areas of ability such as thinking and reasoning, memory, attention, language ability, sensory and motor skills as well as emotional functioning. The pattern of test results are then analyzed and conclusions can be reached about brain functioning. The results often include a detailed description of a person's strengths and weaknesses as well as specific recommendations about rehabilitation or strategies to help a person cope with problem areas. Such evaluations may be helpful in matters of medical-legal concern such as following an accident or injury where there is documented or suspected brain injury. They are also used to provide objective information regarding a person’s level of ability or disability, or to assess a person’s capacity to “return to work”.
Pre-Surgical Evaluation: Prior to proceeding in with certain surgical procedures, surgical programs/physicians often require a psychological evaluation. A person’s level of stress, coping skills, attitudes towards their health, health habits, and other personal or emotional issues may have significant effects on how they respond to a specific surgery. The goal is to improve the likelihood of the patient having a positive outcome to the surgical procedure. The most common surgical procedures for which doctors require a "Pre-Surgical Evaluation" are Bariatric Surgery and Implantable Pain Management Devices. The assessment process includes completing several questionnaires and a clinical interview. The results along with any recommendations will be shared with the patient and a report forwarded to the referring physician.
Psychological / Custody Evaluation: Decisions regarding the visitation and/or custody of a child or children are a matter of great concern to all involved. When all efforts to come to a reasonable decision regarding the best interests of the child/children have been exhausted, then referral to an independent and impartial professional may be required. The goal of this evaluation is to provide the court with information so that the best decision is made regarding a child’s welfare. As a prerequisite to beginning the assessment process a court order is required which indicates that all parents or "adults acting as parents" will participate in the assessment. It should be noted that the "traditional rules of confidentiality" that usually apply to persons receiving mental health services do not apply in this situation. The evaluation process generally includes multiple extended interviews with all involved adults in addition to the administration of different psychological tests. The child is also interviewed and tests may be administered depending on their age. Other persons who have knowledge about the situation that is relevant to the assessment may be also contacted in order to obtain additional information.
Parental Competence Evaluation: This evaluation is usually requested by the court or on the recommendation of an attorney. The goal of the evaluation is to assess a person’s psychological health as it might affect their ability to care for a child or children. The evaluation will also examine a person’s knowledge and judgment as this relates to child-rearing ability. The process usually includes multiple clinical interviews, administration of select psychological tests, a review of corollary information, and preparation of a written report.
Independent Psychological (Medical) Evaluation (IME): This term is generally used regarding persons involved in the "Workers Compensation" system. When an individual has been injured in a work-related incident and has received medical treatment or rehabilitation, an independent evaluation of the person’s current psychological status may be requested. Physical injuries often affect a person's emotional functioning. Over time, pain and disability may lead to depression, anxiety, family stresses, and other problems that can in turn increase physical symptoms. An "IME" generally includes a review of medical records, one or more clinical interviews, and administration of selected psychological tests. Results of the evaluation are then shared with the workers’ compensation carrier as well as the person’s physician or other involved health care professionals when appropriate.