desk and chair

Frequently Asked Questions


Before your visit with Dr. Brauer, please review these frequently asked questions. If you have a question that is not answered here, please email Dr. Brauer directly.

  • If you are interested in setting up an appointment, I offer a free a 15 minute discovery call. During the call, we will discuss what you are looking to get out of services and if working together would be a good fit. Please click on the button in the header of my website or contact me to set up a discovery call.

  • An assessment will be conducted to determine if and how services could help you meet your goals. I’ll invite you to share about yourself and we can also talk about what has worked and what has not worked in the past.  

  • I do not accept insurance, but I can provide you with a detailed invoice that includes information to submit to your insurance company if you wish to seek partial reimbursement with out-of-network benefits. Clients are billed directly for services. Additional billing details and cancellation policies will be reviewed further with onboarding paperwork. 

  • The length of treatment depends on many factors including the type and severity of the presenting problem. Insomnia treatment can range between 4-12 sessions, with variation due to individual differences or co-occurring conditions. Improvement in performance or mental health concerns (e.g., anxiety and depression) can require a longer term relationship.  

  • You do not need to stop taking medication to begin sleep therapy. As a psychologist, I do not prescribe medication or give recommendations on medication use. However, I will work collaboratively with you and your prescribing physician to incorporate your medication plan into treatment.

  • The presentation of multiple comorbid concerns is common. We can address multiple concerns in therapy. Together we will collaborate on a treatment plan that aligns with your goals.

  • There are some cases in which I will work adjunctively to provide collaborative and specialized intervention for sleep or performance concerns. I want to ensure your therapist is in agreement so that we can collaborate in providing care that aligns with your treatment goals. In these cases, I will have you complete a release of information for permission to work with your therapist. 

  • Examples:

    What is your philosophical approach to therapy? 

    How do you help individuals set goals for therapy?

    What does a typical session look like?

    What are indications that therapy is effective?

    What type of license or credentials do you hold to work with [x]?

    What happens if another type of problem comes up while we are working together? What other areas are you qualified to work with?

    What areas of concern are you not qualified to work with? When would I need a referral to another provider? 

    How frequently do you typically meet?