Frequently Asked Questions

How long do sessions last?
I see people for 45 minute sessions.

How often will I see you?
Typically I begin seeing people once a week and as we continue to work we taper down to every two weeks. Some people choose to taper off with a monthly check in, others do not. Some patients especially those with bipolar disorder monitor themselves and call when they start becoming depressed or manic.

How long do you usually see people?
That is determined by a number of factors such as:
• The level of complication of the problem.
• The number of problems present.
• The length of time the problem has been present.
• The patient's ability to change.

Will I need to lie down on a couch?
No, my patients typically sit for their sessions. In fact, my couch is a love seat and probably isn't comfortable to lie upon.

Do you think you can help me?
We typically spend one to two sessions doing an assessment. If after the assessment period I believe that I am not the best person to help you I will tell you and provide you with some referrals.

Will I need to take medication?
If you come in with bipolar disorder I expect you to be taking medication prescribed by a psychiatrist. If you have a medical condition that requires you to take medication, I expect you to be compliant with your doctor's orders. Otherwise that is a decision that is up to you. I look at three areas of functioning before I make a recommendation that a patient should take medication. I look at how the person is functioning at work or school, what their relationships are like and the level of severity of their symptoms. I usually recommend a medication evaluation when at least two of the three areas are moderately to severely effected.

Can you prescribe my medication?
No, I am a psychologist and my license allows me to perform the services listed on the website. I am not qualified nor am I licensed to prescribe medication.

Do you do hypnosis?
I am primarily a therapist that uses hypnosis as I use many different tools to help people. I generally recommend hypnosis for people who seem to be stuck. I have also found it effective in helping people with pain management issues.

Are you LGBTQ-friendly?
Yes, I serve all populations, including the LGBTQ community.

Do you accept credit or debit cards?
Currently I accept cash, checks, debit and credit cards for your co-pay. I expect that you will come to session prepared to pay your co-pay.

How do people change?
While there are a number of responses to this question that I agree with I will focus on the answers most pertinent to counseling. I believe that people change primarily from novel experiences. The change can be due to shifting on perspective for the way we view the world or, it can be simply from having new experiences. I believe that the combination of changing thoughts and experiences provides the most powerful backdrop for change. Sometimes change comes about as the result of being educated.

What insurance plans are accepted?

• Aetna Non-Preferred Provider
• Blue Cross Blue Shield*
• Cigna/Cigna Behavioral Health
• Deer Oaks EAP
• LifeSynch
• Magellan Non-Preferred Provider
• Tricare
• United Behavioral Health
• United Health Care
• Wellness Corporation
  
  * Dr. Polansky is not a Biodyne provider nor is she a Preferred provider

There may be additional plans that are not listed here that Dr. Polansky has recently joined.

For billing or insurance questions please contact Ryan Receivables at 480 227-4042 or info@ryanreceivables.com.