Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to Help You Feel Informed and Confident
General
This section covers some of the most common questions we receive to help you feel more informed, prepared, and confident as you take the next step in your mental health journey.
What are your credentials?
I’m a licensed clinical psychologist with a strong foundation in both clinical and counseling psychology. I completed my doctorate (Ph.D.) in Clinical Psychology at St. John's University in New York, and my master’s degree in Clinical and Counseling Psychology at Teachers College, Columbia University. I’m also proud to be an alumna of Clark Atlanta University, an HBCU, where I earned my bachelor’s degree in psychology.
In addition to my formal education, I have advanced training in neuropsychological assessment, which allows me to provide specialized evaluations for cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functioning. I’m deeply committed to lifelong learning and pursuing continuing education and advanced training to stay current with the best practices in psychology and neuropsychology.
If you’re interested in learning more about my clinical background and professional experience, feel free to visit my LinkedIn profile or virtual resume. I believe that strong training, paired with empathy and cultural awareness, lays the groundwork for meaningful therapeutic work.
In addition to my formal education, I have advanced training in neuropsychological assessment, which allows me to provide specialized evaluations for cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functioning. I’m deeply committed to lifelong learning and pursuing continuing education and advanced training to stay current with the best practices in psychology and neuropsychology.
If you’re interested in learning more about my clinical background and professional experience, feel free to visit my LinkedIn profile or virtual resume. I believe that strong training, paired with empathy and cultural awareness, lays the groundwork for meaningful therapeutic work.
General
This section covers some of the most common questions we receive to help you feel more informed, prepared, and confident as you take the next step in your mental health journey.
What are your credentials?
I’m a licensed clinical psychologist with a strong foundation in both clinical and counseling psychology. I completed my doctorate (Ph.D.) in Clinical Psychology at St. John's University in New York, and my master’s degree in Clinical and Counseling Psychology at Teachers College, Columbia University. I’m also proud to be an alumna of Clark Atlanta University, an HBCU, where I earned my bachelor’s degree in psychology.
In addition to my formal education, I have advanced training in neuropsychological assessment, which allows me to provide specialized evaluations for cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functioning. I’m deeply committed to lifelong learning and pursuing continuing education and advanced training to stay current with the best practices in psychology and neuropsychology.
If you’re interested in learning more about my clinical background and professional experience, feel free to visit my LinkedIn profile or virtual resume. I believe that strong training, paired with empathy and cultural awareness, lays the groundwork for meaningful therapeutic work.
In addition to my formal education, I have advanced training in neuropsychological assessment, which allows me to provide specialized evaluations for cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functioning. I’m deeply committed to lifelong learning and pursuing continuing education and advanced training to stay current with the best practices in psychology and neuropsychology.
If you’re interested in learning more about my clinical background and professional experience, feel free to visit my LinkedIn profile or virtual resume. I believe that strong training, paired with empathy and cultural awareness, lays the groundwork for meaningful therapeutic work.
Psychotherapy
Whether you're considering therapy for the first time or returning after a break, it's normal to have questions. Here are answers to some of the most common inquiries people have when starting psychotherapy.
What is psychotherapy, and how does it work?
Psychotherapy (or “talk therapy”) is a collaborative process where you work with a trained mental health professional to explore thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and relationships. Therapy can help you gain insight, develop coping strategies, and make meaningful changes.
Does therapy really work?
Yes, research consistently shows that psychotherapy is effective for a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship problems. The key factors include your willingness to engage and the quality of the therapeutic relationship.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, psychiatrist, and therapist?
Psychologists (like me) have doctoral training and specialize in psychotherapy and psychological testing.
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who typically focus on prescribing medication.
Therapists is a general term for professionals who provide talk therapy—it can include social workers, mental health professionals, and counselors who typically have masters-level training.
What kind of therapy do you use?
I use evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and/or Problem-Solving Therapy (PST) and more, depending on your needs and goals. We’ll decide together what works best for you.
What happens in a typical session?
We’ll likely follow-up with updates from the previous session, and continue to work toward your goals. Sometimes sessions are structured; other times they’re more open. You set the pace.
Can therapy help with anxiety, phobias, trauma, or relationship issues?
Yes. Therapy has been shown to be highly effective for all of these concerns. I specialize in supporting individuals facing challenges like these and more.
Can I stop therapy at any time?
Yes. You’re never locked into therapy—you can pause or stop at any point. Ideally, we’ll discuss your decision and plan a thoughtful ending together.
Will you judge me?
No. Therapy is a non-judgmental space where you’re safe to be honest and vulnerable. My role is to support and understand—not to criticize.
Psychotherapy
Whether you're considering therapy for the first time or returning after a break, it's normal to have questions. Here are answers to some of the most common inquiries people have when starting psychotherapy.
What is psychotherapy, and how does it work?
Psychotherapy (or “talk therapy”) is a collaborative process where you work with a trained mental health professional to explore thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and relationships. Therapy can help you gain insight, develop coping strategies, and make meaningful changes.
Does therapy really work?
Yes, research consistently shows that psychotherapy is effective for a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship problems. The key factors include your willingness to engage and the quality of the therapeutic relationship.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, psychiatrist, and therapist?
Psychologists (like me) have doctoral training and specialize in psychotherapy and psychological testing.
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who typically focus on prescribing medication.
Therapists is a general term for professionals who provide talk therapy—it can include social workers, mental health professionals, and counselors who typically have masters-level training.
What kind of therapy do you use?
I use evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and/or Problem-Solving Therapy (PST) and more, depending on your needs and goals. We’ll decide together what works best for you.
What happens in a typical session?
We’ll likely follow-up with updates from the previous session, and continue to work toward your goals. Sometimes sessions are structured; other times they’re more open. You set the pace.
Can therapy help with anxiety, phobias, trauma, or relationship issues?
Yes. Therapy has been shown to be highly effective for all of these concerns. I specialize in supporting individuals facing challenges like these and more.
Can I stop therapy at any time?
Yes. You’re never locked into therapy—you can pause or stop at any point. Ideally, we’ll discuss your decision and plan a thoughtful ending together.
Will you judge me?
No. Therapy is a non-judgmental space where you’re safe to be honest and vulnerable. My role is to support and understand—not to criticize.
Cognitive Training & Rehabilitation
Cognitive functioning refers to mental processes like memory, attention, reasoning, problem-solving, and processing speed. These skills are essential for daily living, learning, work, and relationships.
What does it mean to have cognitive difficulties?
Cognitive difficulties can affect thinking, concentration, memory, or executive functions (like planning or decision-making). These challenges can be mild or significant and may result from medical, neurological, or psychological conditions.
What causes changes in cognitive functioning?
Changes can result from a variety of factors, including:
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI) or concussion
- Stroke or brain tumors
- Dementia or other neurodegenerative diseases
- ADHD or learning disorders
- Depression, anxiety, or chronic stress
- Medical conditions (e.g., sleep apnea, thyroid issues)
- Normal aging
How do I know if I need a cognitive assessment?
If you or others notice persistent difficulties with memory, attention, organization, or decision-making that interfere with daily life, a cognitive assessment can provide clarity and guidance.
What is a cognitive or neuropsychological assessment?
It’s a structured evaluation of brain-based abilities like attention, memory, reasoning, language, and emotional functioning. It helps identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas for cognitive rehabilitation (i.e., treatment).
What happens during a cognitive assessment?
You’ll complete a series of tests, questionnaires, and interviews. These may involve tasks like remembering words, solving puzzles, identifying patterns, or answering questions. The full process can take as little as 20 minutes (for a screener) or as long as several hours for a full evaluation, depending on the referral reason.
Will the assessment diagnose a condition?
It may contribute to a diagnosis, such as ADHD, mild cognitive impairment, dementia, or a learning disorder. However, diagnosis depends on multiple factors, including your history, test results, and clinical judgment.
What is cognitive rehabilitation?
Cognitive rehabilitation is a therapy approach that helps people improve or adapt to cognitive difficulties. It may include exercises to strengthen attention or memory, compensatory strategies, and coaching for daily function.
Who can benefit from cognitive rehab?
Individuals recovering from brain injury, managing ADHD, or coping with age-related memory changes often benefit from this approach.
How long does cognitive rehab take?
It varies depending on the person’s goals and condition. Some benefit from short-term intervention (e.g., 6–12 sessions), while others may work longer-term on complex goals. Progress is reviewed regularly.
What’s the difference between cognitive rehab and psychotherapy?
Cognitive rehabilitation focuses specifically on thinking skills and daily functioning, while psychotherapy addresses emotional well-being and mental health. In some cases, both are recommended and complementary.
Can cognitive rehab prevent dementia?
While it can’t prevent dementia, cognitive rehabilitation may help people maintain function, use compensatory strategies, and improve quality of life in early stages of cognitive decline.
Is it possible to improve cognitive skills as an adult?
Yes. The brain is adaptable throughout life. With practice, structure, and support, many people can strengthen skills or learn effective ways to work around challenges.
How do I get started with a cognitive assessment or rehab?
You can contact our office to schedule a consultation or referral. We’ll determine the most appropriate type of assessment or treatment for your needs.
Cognitive Training & Rehabilitation
Cognitive functioning refers to mental processes like memory, attention, reasoning, problem-solving, and processing speed. These skills are essential for daily living, learning, work, and relationships.
What does it mean to have cognitive difficulties?
Cognitive difficulties can affect thinking, concentration, memory, or executive functions (like planning or decision-making). These challenges can be mild or significant and may result from medical, neurological, or psychological conditions.
What causes changes in cognitive functioning?
Changes can result from a variety of factors, including:
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI) or concussion
- Stroke or brain tumors
- Dementia or other neurodegenerative diseases
- ADHD or learning disorders
- Depression, anxiety, or chronic stress
- Medical conditions (e.g., sleep apnea, thyroid issues)
- Normal aging
How do I know if I need a cognitive assessment?
If you or others notice persistent difficulties with memory, attention, organization, or decision-making that interfere with daily life, a cognitive assessment can provide clarity and guidance.
What is a cognitive or neuropsychological assessment?
It’s a structured evaluation of brain-based abilities like attention, memory, reasoning, language, and emotional functioning. It helps identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas for cognitive rehabilitation (i.e., treatment).
What happens during a cognitive assessment?
You’ll complete a series of tests, questionnaires, and interviews. These may involve tasks like remembering words, solving puzzles, identifying patterns, or answering questions. The full process can take as little as 20 minutes (for a screener) or as long as several hours for a full evaluation, depending on the referral reason.
Will the assessment diagnose a condition?
It may contribute to a diagnosis, such as ADHD, mild cognitive impairment, dementia, or a learning disorder. However, diagnosis depends on multiple factors, including your history, test results, and clinical judgment.
What is cognitive rehabilitation?
Cognitive rehabilitation is a therapy approach that helps people improve or adapt to cognitive difficulties. It may include exercises to strengthen attention or memory, compensatory strategies, and coaching for daily function.
Who can benefit from cognitive rehab?
Individuals recovering from brain injury, managing ADHD, or coping with age-related memory changes often benefit from this approach.
How long does cognitive rehab take?
It varies depending on the person’s goals and condition. Some benefit from short-term intervention (e.g., 6–12 sessions), while others may work longer-term on complex goals. Progress is reviewed regularly.
What’s the difference between cognitive rehab and psychotherapy?
Cognitive rehabilitation focuses specifically on thinking skills and daily functioning, while psychotherapy addresses emotional well-being and mental health. In some cases, both are recommended and complementary.
Can cognitive rehab prevent dementia?
While it can’t prevent dementia, cognitive rehabilitation may help people maintain function, use compensatory strategies, and improve quality of life in early stages of cognitive decline.
Is it possible to improve cognitive skills as an adult?
Yes. The brain is adaptable throughout life. With practice, structure, and support, many people can strengthen skills or learn effective ways to work around challenges.
How do I get started with a cognitive assessment or rehab?
You can contact our office to schedule a consultation or referral. We’ll determine the most appropriate type of assessment or treatment for your needs.
Comprehensive Pre-Surgical Psychological Evaluations
Pre-surgical psychological evaluations are a standard part of preparation for many medical procedures. Below, you'll find answers to common questions about what these evaluations involve, why they’re needed, and how they help. This is the only service that requires a referral from a surgeon, primary care provider, or other related medical professional.
What is a pre-surgical psychological evaluation?
It's an assessment conducted by a licensed psychologist to evaluate your mental and emotional readiness for surgery. It helps your medical team understand how psychological factors may affect your recovery, treatment compliance, and long-term outcomes.
Why do I need a psychological evaluation before surgery?
Certain surgeries, such as bariatric surgery, spinal cord stimulators, or pain management devices, require psychological clearance to:
- Ensure you understand the risks and benefits of the procedure
- Assess your ability to follow post-operative instructions
- Identify emotional or behavioral factors that may impact success
- Offer recommendations to improve your outcome
What types of surgeries typically require a psychological evaluation?
Some common examples include:
- Bariatric (weight loss) surgery
- Spinal cord stimulator implantation
- Certain orthopedic or neurosurgeries
What happens during the evaluation?
The process usually includes:
- A clinical interview (discussing your medical, psychological, and social history)
- Standardized questionnaires and psychological testing
- A review of relevant medical records
- A written report with recommendations for your surgical team
How long does the evaluation take?
Typically, the evaluation lasts 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity of the case and testing involved.
Will I “pass” or “fail” the evaluation?
This isn’t a pass/fail test. The purpose is to identify any issues that could interfere with a successful outcome and, if needed, recommend support or interventions to help you succeed. If concerns arise, your medical team will work with you to address them.
Is the evaluation confidential?
Yes, your information is confidential. A summary report is shared with your surgeon or medical team, but we’ll explain exactly what’s shared and get your consent first.
Will insurance cover the evaluation?
Many insurance plans cover pre-surgical evaluations, especially if they’re required by your medical provider. We can verify your benefits or provide documentation for reimbursement.
What if I have a history of depression or anxiety? Will that disqualify me?
Not necessarily. Many patients with mental health histories go on to have successful surgeries. The goal is to ensure you have the proper support before and after your procedure.
What if I’m nervous about the evaluation?
That’s normal. The evaluation is not meant to be intimidating—it’s meant to help you prepare emotionally and psychologically for the changes that come with surgery.
What happens after the evaluation?
After the evaluation, I’ll write a report summarizing the findings and share it with your referring physician. I can also provide recommendations, such as pre-surgical counseling or stress management strategies, if needed.
Comprehensive Pre-Surgical Psychological Evaluations
Pre-surgical psychological evaluations are a standard part of preparation for many medical procedures. Below, you'll find answers to common questions about what these evaluations involve, why they’re needed, and how they help. This is the only service that requires a referral from a surgeon, primary care provider, or other related medical professional.
What is a pre-surgical psychological evaluation?
It's an assessment conducted by a licensed psychologist to evaluate your mental and emotional readiness for surgery. It helps your medical team understand how psychological factors may affect your recovery, treatment compliance, and long-term outcomes.
Why do I need a psychological evaluation before surgery?
Certain surgeries, such as bariatric surgery, spinal cord stimulators, or pain management devices, require psychological clearance to:
- Ensure you understand the risks and benefits of the procedure
- Assess your ability to follow post-operative instructions
- Identify emotional or behavioral factors that may impact success
- Offer recommendations to improve your outcome
What types of surgeries typically require a psychological evaluation?
Some common examples include:
- Bariatric (weight loss) surgery
- Spinal cord stimulator implantation
- Certain orthopedic or neurosurgeries
What happens during the evaluation?
The process usually includes:
- A clinical interview (discussing your medical, psychological, and social history)
- Standardized questionnaires and psychological testing
- A review of relevant medical records
- A written report with recommendations for your surgical team
How long does the evaluation take?
Typically, the evaluation lasts 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity of the case and testing involved.
Will I “pass” or “fail” the evaluation?
This isn’t a pass/fail test. The purpose is to identify any issues that could interfere with a successful outcome and, if needed, recommend support or interventions to help you succeed. If concerns arise, your medical team will work with you to address them.
Is the evaluation confidential?
Yes, your information is confidential. A summary report is shared with your surgeon or medical team, but we’ll explain exactly what’s shared and get your consent first.
Will insurance cover the evaluation?
Many insurance plans cover pre-surgical evaluations, especially if they’re required by your medical provider. We can verify your benefits or provide documentation for reimbursement.
What if I have a history of depression or anxiety? Will that disqualify me?
Not necessarily. Many patients with mental health histories go on to have successful surgeries. The goal is to ensure you have the proper support before and after your procedure.
What if I’m nervous about the evaluation?
That’s normal. The evaluation is not meant to be intimidating—it’s meant to help you prepare emotionally and psychologically for the changes that come with surgery.
What happens after the evaluation?
After the evaluation, I’ll write a report summarizing the findings and share it with your referring physician. I can also provide recommendations, such as pre-surgical counseling or stress management strategies, if needed.
Do you take insurance?
We've partnered with Mentaya, a service that streamlines getting reimbursed for your therapy sessions through out-of-network benefits.
Mentaya is perfect if you:
• Have out-of-network benefits
• Feel overwhelmed by superbills and insurance
• Have submitted superbills but failed to get any reimbursement
• Simply want to skip the hassle of paperwork!
Mentaya charges a 5% fee per claim, which includes handling any paperwork required, dealing with denials, and calling insurance companies.
It's risk-free: They guarantee claims are successfully submitted, or a full refund of their fees.
Here's how it works:
1. Sign up for Mentaya: https://mentaya.co/inviteclient/drsteele
2. Our practice will enter your sessions into the platform.
3. Mentaya submits the claim and handles any insurance follow-up.
4. You get reimbursed by insurance!
Contact Us
Let’s Take The First Step Together
Whether you have questions, need more information, or are ready to schedule a session, we’re here to help.
Reach out today to connect with Dr. Rebecca A. Steele and begin your journey toward clarity, healing, and growth.
Do you take insurance?
We've partnered with Mentaya, a service that streamlines getting reimbursed for your therapy sessions through out-of-network benefits.
Mentaya is perfect if you:
• Have out-of-network benefits
• Feel overwhelmed by superbills and insurance
• Have submitted superbills but failed to get any reimbursement
• Simply want to skip the hassle of paperwork!
Mentaya charges a 5% fee per claim, which includes handling any paperwork required, dealing with denials, and calling insurance companies.
It's risk-free: They guarantee claims are successfully submitted, or a full refund of their fees.
Here's how it works:
1. Sign up for Mentaya: https://mentaya.co/inviteclient/drsteele
2. Our practice will enter your sessions into the platform.
3. Mentaya submits the claim and handles any insurance follow-up.
4. You get reimbursed by insurance!
Contact Us
Let’s Take The First Step Together
Whether you have questions, need more information, or are ready to schedule a session, we’re here to help. Reach out today to connect with Dr. Rebecca A. Steele and begin your journey toward clarity, healing, and growth.
LONG ISLAND
New York
1225 Franklin Avenue Suite 325Garden City, NY 11530
ATLANTA
Georgia
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*Virtual appointments are available for the entirety of NY State