What is the difference between a Psychiatrist and a Psychologist?

Both are doctoral level providers with about seven years postgraduate training. A psychiatrist attended medical school, has an M.D. or D.O. and can prescribe medications and do psychotherapy. A psychiatrist is licensed with the Texas State Board of Medical Examiners.

A psychologist attended graduate school in psychology, has a Ph.D., Ed.D., or Psy.D. degree. A psychologist usually does psychological testing and psychotherapy, but does not prescribe medication. A psychologist is licensed with the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists. A Ph.D. or Ed.D. degree does not indicate someone is a psychologist; they must be licensed by the board.

Will my Insurance cover mental health treatment?

Most insurance plans cover mental health treatment, but the coverage varies by insurance companies and employer groups. Our Insurance Coordinator will call your insurance company and verify your benefits once you have made an appointment with a psychologist and furnished all your Insurance information. We will report back to you the benefits as they are quoted to us but benefits may vary when the claim is paid. Please watch your Explanation of Benefits that will come to you explaining how your claim was paid.

Dr. Crutchfield does not participate in any managed care plans. Payment for your visit will be paid directly from you to the doctor. She will give you a receipt that has all the information you will need to file your out of network claim.  Medicare will not reimburse for an out of network doctor, and neither you nor the doctor will be allowed to file Medicare.

Why am I asked to provide a copy of my divorce an or child custody papers?

Because of the sensitive nature of mental health treatment, we require that we have a copy of the divorce decree to confirm that the parent/guardian that is bringing the child in for treatment has been given permission by the courts to obtain medical treatment.

How many hours of Psychological Testing will be needed?

A diagnostic visit will be scheduled prior to any psychological testing. After reviewing the patient history the doctor will be able to give you an estimate of the number of hours of testing that will be needed. If authorization for testing is required by your insurance company we will contact them and ask for authorization. We will report back to you if the request for testing is denied and let you know what your charges would be per hour of testing.