Brittany Smith, LCSW, CEDS
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my health insurance cover therapy?
I'm an in-network provider with Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Health Advantage, Ambetter, Allwell, and Qualchoice. Please call the number on the back of your insurance card to verify mental health benefits.
How many sessions will I need?
Eating disorders are typically difficult to treat because of the many layers involved in the illness (medical, nutritional, spiritual, emotional barriers stemming from family issues, self-esteem, negative body image, depression, anxiety, trauma, etc.). However, solution- focused techniques along with cognitive behavioral therapy can target the identified issues quickly and effectively. Some clients meet goals within twelve sessions, depending on how severe the illness is. Some clients are able to meet their goals within a few sessions, and others prefer longer-term supportive services.
Do you refer clients to inpatient treatment?
Yes, when necessary. Eating disorders can be deadly. In cases where clients cannot be safely monitored on an outpatient basis, I will work with you (and/or your family or significant other(s)) to find a treatment center that meets your recovery needs. I can provide you with aftercare and supportive services upon your return to help maintain positive results.
Does my doctor have to be involved with my treatment?
It is recommended that your physician(s) be made aware of any eating disorder diagnosis, and in some cases, labwork is necessary. Psychiatric medications are sometimes needed to facilitate the recovery process as well. This will be discussed with you, and any referrals you need will be addressed during the assessment.
What age ranges do you see?
I work with adolescents and adults. For clients under age 18, at least one parent MUST attend the initial assessment, and family sessions are encouraged.
What do you treat?
I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, and/or all food issues, whether mild or severe. The scope of my expertise includes treatment for anorexia, bulimia, Binge Eating Disorder (BED), night eating, PICA, Other Specified Feeding and Eating Disorders (OSFED), Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID),
eating disorders in athletes, pre/post bariatric/lapband and/or plastic surgery, body changes during/post pregnancy, and body dysmorphic disorder. Oftentimes anxiety and mood disorders (including depression) accompany food issues, and these will be addressed throughout treatment as well.
How do I know my care will be kept confidential?
When you call or email to make an appointment, you will speak directly to me or to my confidential voicemail. All clients are asked to sign confidentiality notices that protect your privacy and your right to confidential treatment even while waiting in the waiting area. In the event that you choose to use health insurance to help cover costs, only the minimum identifying information will be used to cover the identified service(s). Telehealth services are conducted through an encrypted platform. You must sign a release in order for me to release or receive information from any person or agency.
Have Questions?
Send a message.