Licensed Psychologist
          (954) 320-0173
DR. CHRISTINA Z. ATTI
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Common Questions...And Straight-Up Answers

Below are the questions I get asked the most. If yours isn't here? Just ask.

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WILL SEEING A PSYCHOLOGIST HELP ME?
Short answer: Yes — for many people. Research shows folks who stick with therapy improve more than those who don’t. One large study found around 50% of clients improved after eight sessions, and about 75% improved by six months in.      

Also, mental and physical health are tightly linked; treatment for the mind often improves the body, too (pain, fatigue, headaches included). 

HOW LONG UNTIL I FEEL BETTER?
There’s no “one‑size‑fits‑all” timeline. We’ll set goals together—and then it’s about taking steps toward them. Some people feel relief quickly; others take more time. Your pace = your pace.

WHAT ABOUT CONFIDENTIALITY?

Your sessions are private. I won’t share what we talk about unless you say so—except in rare cases (which I’ll always talk to you about first):
  • If there’s child/elder abuse or someone is at risk. 
  • If you’re planning to harm yourself or someone else. 
  • If a court orders my testimony in a legal case. 

HOW LONG ARE SESSIONS?
  • First session: 50 minutes. 
  • Regular sessions: 45 minutes. 
  • Longer blocks are available—just ask.

HOW OFTEN WILL WE MEET?
Typically, once a week—but your frequency depends on your goals, schedule, what’s happening in your life, and what you can afford.

HOW LONG WILL THERAPY LAST?
Again, it depends. Could be 3‑6 months. Could be longer. Maybe even 1 year or more. We’ll keep checking in on your progress and goals.

WHAT IS COGNITIVE-BEHAVIORAL THERAPY (CBT)?
CBT is about the link between your thoughts, feelings and behaviors: changing thoughts → changing behavior → changing feelings. It has strong evidence behind it for things like depression, anxiety, eating disorders and more. 

We’ll work together, set goals, practice new skills in and out of session.

WHAT IS DIALECTICAL BEHAVIOR THERAPY (DBT)?
DBT is a specialized type of CBT geared toward people who feel like emotions run them (or they run from them). It zeroes in on emotional regulation, managing conflict, tolerating distress and being present. Originally for suicidal behavior, it works well for lots of emotional struggles.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A PSYCHOLOGIST AND A PSYCHIATRIST?

Briefly:
  • Psychologists (like me) have doctoral degrees (Psy.D. or Ph.D.) in psychology. We specialize in therapy, assessments, behavior change. 
  • Psychiatrists are medical doctors (M.D. or D.O.) who can prescribe medication and often focus on biological/medical aspects and treatment.

DO I NEED MEDICATION?
That’s a “maybe”. Some people benefit from meds and therapy. But meds alone often mask issues rather than resolve them. We’ll explore together whether a referral to a psychiatrist makes sense.

HOW MUCH DOES THERAPY COST?

Therapy is an investment in you. My fees reflect what other licensed psychologists in the area are charging—and yes, sometimes it feels steep until you compare it against the cost of not dealing with your stuff. No fluff. No surprises. Just honest pricing so you know exactly what you're getting into.

Currently:
  • Individuals: Initial eval ~$325, 50 min. Regular 45‑min ~$300. 
  • Couples/Families: Initial ~$385, 50 min. Regular ~$350, 45‑min.

WHY DON'T YOU ACCEPT INSURANCE?
Short version: Accepting insurance can mean compromising confidentiality, treatment style and flexibility. With “out‑of‑network” you still have options (many clients are reimbursed 50–80%). I’ll help you figure it out if you like.

WHAT QUESTIONS SHOULD I ASK MY INSURANCE COMPANY ABOUT "OUT OF NETWORK" BENEFITS?
  • Do I have mental/behavioral health benefits? 
  • How many sessions per year are covered? 
  • What’s my deductible or reimbursement rate? 
  • Is pre‑authorization needed? 
  • ​What’s the max benefit for “out‑of‑network”?

WHAT IS YOUR CANCELLATION POLICY?
Your scheduled time is yours. If you cancel with less than 24‑hour notice, you’ll be charged the full session fee. Because I reserve that slot just for you.


FINAL WORD
Therapy is real work. It takes showing up, being honest, daring to see what might change. If you're ready for more than “just getting by,” and you’re willing to do the work, I’m here to help.


"Once you replace negative thoughts with positive ones, you'll start having positive results".
 - Willie Nelson
Christina Z. Atti, Psy.D., LLC
Licensed Psychologist
 
Telephone: (954) 320-0173
Email: [email protected]
Contact Dr. Atti

                                                                                                                  11000 Prosperity Farms Road, # 202    
                                                                                                                     Palm Beach Gardens, FL  33410                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          

                   All information on this website is provided for information purposes only and does not constitute a legal contract between Christina Z. Atti, Psy.D. and any person or entity unless otherwise specified.                 Correspondence does not constitute an established therapist-client relationship, nor does it psychological treatment or diagnosis. If you are in crisis, call 9-1-1 or bring yourself to the nearest hospital.



Christina Z. Atti, Psy.D., 2025
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