Psychological Health Services

Many of those who struggle with emotional and psychological stress associated with a medical condition may benefit from counseling provided by our clinical psychologists. Our behavioral health services are based on scientifically supported strategies to help patients reduce and manage their symptoms by addressing the physical, psychological, and social aspects of one’s health or illness.

We offer education, support and treatment for:

• Adjusting to new diagnoses and associated changes
• Lifestyle modification for chronic medical conditions
• Management of chronic pain and stress associated with medical conditions
• Coping with major life changes associated with physical limitations
• Medication management
• Family and caretaker stress

Diseases and problems that can be addressed include, but are not limited to:

• Stress-related disorders: headaches, hypertension, irritable bowel syndrome, acid reflux
• Chronic and progressive illnesses: multiple sclerosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease
• Chronic pain disorders: fibromyalgia, migraines, rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease
• Women’s health issues: polycystic ovarian syndrome, loss of pregnancy, IVF, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, sexual functioning
• Trauma related to a new medical issue: heart attack, seizure, stroke
• Diseases of aging and associated phase of life issues

Behavioral health services begin with a consultation in which symptoms and problem behaviors will be reviewed and a treatment plan will be developed and mutually agreed upon by the clinician and patient. Feedback from the referring provider will be integrated into the treatment plan as needed. The length of treatment varies based on your particular needs, but usually ranges between 1-12 sessions. If you need additional healthcare services or other specialty care, appropriate referrals can be made.

Benefits from psychological and behavioral counseling include:

• Improved coping and management of medical conditions
• Healthier lifestyle behaviors, such as exercise, stress management, healthy eating, sleep and self-care
• Enhanced overall quality of life, relationships and self-esteem
• Understanding of the mind-body connection and your medical condition

Cost and Coverage

Nearly all health insurance plans include coverage for mental health services. Both the initial assessment (billing or CPT code: 90791) and follow-up therapy sessions (billing or CPT code: 90834), are commonly covered by insurance carriers, including Medicare. The degree of coverage varies among carriers. Therefore, we highly recommend that you contact your insurance carrier to determine whether these services are covered, and, if so, how many sessions are covered in a calendar year. For patients with insurance, the individual is expected to be responsible for all co-pays and deductibles.

Psychiatry and Psychology Services

For those struggling with mental health problems and seeking psychotherapy, psychiatric care or medication management, the Behavioral Health Center at Greenwich Hospital’s Outpatient Clinic may offer appropriate services. For further information, call 203-863-3316 or learn more about the Behavioral Health Center.