Jennifer Van Gorp

Jennifer Van Gorp

Human Resources Specialist

February 28, 2024

Financial Advocacy

We understand that therapy is expensive, and we are committed to making our services accessible to as many people as possible. Although we do not accept insurance, we have a billing specialist ready to assist you with any questions you may have about receiving out-of-network benefits, as well as helping you explore other financial avenues. To begin, please see the following resources:

Determining Out of Network Benefits

Most insurance policies cover mental health services, and many offer out of network benefits, meaning they will pay for a portion of services provided. We require that services be paid for upfront, so this means you will pay out of pocket at the time of service, then we will provide you with a superbill to submit to insurance for reimbursement. 0n figuring the total cost to you, there are many things to consider, such as:

  • Out of Network Deductible
  • Coinsurance
  • Out of Pocket Maximum
  • Qualifying circumstances
  • Process for filing claims
  • Reimbursement timeline

It is typically best to call your insurance to get this plan-specific information from them directly. I recommend asking for your mental health benefits and asking the following questions:

  • What is my out of network deductible?
  • What is the coinsurance for outpatient individual counseling?
  • Are telehealth services covered?
  • Do you cover group therapy?
  • Is there an out of pocket maximum for out of network costs?
  • Is a diagnosis required for services to be covered?
  • Does a clinician have to hold certain licenses or qualifications to be covered?
  • Are there limits to how many sessions are covered?
  • What is the process for filing claims?

Here are links to some common health insurance companies and their contact pages: 

Understanding Your Benefits

Insurance typically only covers mental health services provided by a licensed clinician, so be sure to tell us if you plan to submit claims to insurance, and we will match you with one of our licensed clinicians.

Now, let's assume your insurance has the following out-of-network benefits:

Deductible: $3000

Coinsurance: 50%

Out of Pocket Maximum: $6000

Because of that deductible, your insurance would not reimburse you for any costs until you have paid $3,000 in addition to your monthly premiums. Assuming therapy was your only out of network costs, you would pay the first 16 sessions ($195/session) at full price with no reimbursement from insurance.

After reaching that amount, your insurance would begin to reimburse you at a rate of 50%. Thus, insurance would reimburse you $97.50 for each following session. After paying $6,000, insurance would begin reimbursing you for the total amount. It would take another 31 appointments paying $97.50 per appointment, to reach the total amount paid of $6,000. Thus, your 48th appointment would be reimbursed in full by insurance.

There can be additional factors that play into benefits, such as allowed amounts and authorizations, so please talk to your insurance representative to understand your plan-specific benefits.

Alternatives to Insurance

If you would rather not use insurance, or your plan does not cover mental health, there are additional options. Please consider the following resources:

  • Employee Assistance Programs: Oftentimes, your employee benefits already include some kind of wellness package that will cover a limited number of sessions with a therapist. Speak with your HR specialist to find out if your company offers any such programs and how you can take advantage of those benefits.
  • Reimbursify: This is an app that will file your claims for you, for a fee.
  • Clergy Pay: Your church may have resources to help pay for mental health as well. It is always worth asking the clergy of your church.
  • Sliding Scale: We offer sessions with a student or post-doctoral clinician at a reduced cost based on your income. Please see our Cost and Payment page for more information.

Summary

We want you to get the help you need, and we are prepared to work with you financially. Please do not hesitate to contact our billing specialist for additional questions or special circumstances. Email:

Phone: 385-446-5029

February 16, 2024

Parent Webinar Series

Concern or Common? Understanding Early Childhood Behaviors and Early Signs of Developmental Disorders

Tuesday, February 13th, 2024, 6:00 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. MST

Hosted by: Kandice Benallie, Ph.D. (UCEBT) and Emily Lewis, Ph.D. (TCCU)

View presentation slides.

Our Intimate Relationships and Sex Focus (IRSF) Consult Program is dedicated to providing evidence-based treatment for individuals and couples dealing with concerns related to relationships, intimacy, and sexuality. Unlike generic therapy, our program is tailored to address the unique goals, challenges, and patterns specific to each couple's circumstances. We understand the significance of addressing sexuality and sexual health, which is often overlooked in traditional treatments. As part of our IRSF program, we are committed to providing holistic and integrative care, recognizing the intricate dynamics of trauma and its impact on intimate aspects of life. Our program aims to empower clinicians to skillfully and compassionately navigate the complex intersections of trauma and sexual wellness.

What to Expect

We begin with a multi-session in-depth assessment process to thoroughly examine concerns and obstacles related to relationship, intimacy, and sexual satisfaction. Based on the assessment data and therapy goals, we formulate personalized treatment plans to ensure the most comprehensive care specific to the client and/or relationship. Similar to our other clinical programs, we collect outcome data for each couple and/or individual to ensure that treatment goals are being met.

What We Treat

Furthermore, our sex therapy-informed clinicians have received formal, specialized training in the latest evidence-based treatments for couples, such as The Gottman Method, Integrative Behavioral Couples Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Conjoint Therapy for PTSD.

Our clinicians are trained to address the following concerns:

    • Relationship difficulties
    • Relationship recovery after an affair/betrayal
    • Relationship transitions (e.g., marriage, divorce, separation)
    • Enhancing intimacy and couples satisfaction
    • Supporting a loved one through a difficult period
    • Improved communication and conflict resolution skills
    • Increased sexual wellness and satisfaction

Training Opportunities for Students

We offer supervision for students interested in receiving more experience working with:

    • Couples
    • Individuals with on relationships concerns
    • Individuals with sex-related concerns
    • Couples with sex-related concerns

Learn more about training opportunities at UCEBT.

Our Team

Ashley Layton, MSWi

Cristina Chévere-Rivera, Psy.D.

Katie Flanagan, Psy.D.

Robin Lange, Ph.D.

Sloan Strike, Ph.D. 

Stephanie Taylor, Ph.D. (Program Coordinator)

Whitney Standal Schollars, Psy.D.

NOTE: Not all of our team members offer supervision for this program.

Questions?

If you have questions about training opportunities with this program, please contact Dr. Stephanie Taylor at

If you have questions about becoming a client, please complete our online screener.

December 28, 2023

Values

We believe in aligning our selves and our practice with these collective values:

Compassion 

  • Everyone is doing the best they can 
  • Taking a nonjudgmental stance with ourselves and our clients 
  • Shared humanity 
  • Connection 
  • Self-compassion and self-care 

Community 

  • We all contribute in different ways 
  • Supporting each other benefits all 
  • Individual growth allows us to show up for others and contribute in meaningful ways 
  • We each also receive care 

Communication 

  • Openness to receiving feedback 
  • Direct communication 
  • Communication flows through various roles in the company 
  • Everyone has a voice and should be heard 

Cultural Consciousness 

  • LGBTQ+ allyship and affirmative care
  • Anti-racism in ourselves and the larger community 
  • Diversity, equity, inclusion 
  • Reducing barriers and increasing access to services 
  • Understanding behavior in context 

Flexibility 

  • Balance center needs with personal needs 
  • Groundedness- a place to anchor and flex from 
  • Limits and boundaries 
  • Risk vs. Security  
  • Priorities will shift at various times 
  • No one is perfect  
What is a Neuropsychological Assessment?

A neuropsychological assessment is a comprehensive evaluation that focuses on assessing the relationship between brain function and behavior. It involves a series of tests and measures designed to evaluate various cognitive abilities, such as memory, attention, problem-solving, language skills, and emotional functioning.

Who conducts a neuropsychological assessment?

Neuropsychological assessments are conducted by licensed and trained psychologists who specialize in understanding brain-behavior relationships. These professionals have expertise in administering and interpreting a wide range of tests and measures that assess different cognitive domains.

Why is a neuropsychological assessment conducted?

Neuropsychological assessments are conducted to understand and evaluate an individual's cognitive strengths and weaknesses, as well as identify any underlying brain-related conditions or disorders. They help in diagnosing and treating conditions such as traumatic brain injury, stroke, dementia, learning disabilities, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and other neurological or psychiatric disorders.

What does a neuropsychological assessment involve?

A neuropsychological assessment involves a combination of interviews, standardized tests, questionnaires, and observations. The assessment process typically begins with an interview to gather information about the individual's medical history, symptoms, and concerns. Then, a battery of tests is administered to assess cognitive functions across multiple domains. The assessment may take several hours or multiple sessions, depending on the complexity of the case.

What types of tests are included in a neuropsychological assessment?

A neuropsychological assessment can include various tests depending on the specific needs of the individual. These may include tests of intelligence, memory, attention, language skills, executive functioning, visuospatial abilities, sensory-motor skills, and emotional functioning. The specific tests used will be determined by the psychologist based on the individual's symptoms and referral questions.

What happens after the neuropsychological assessment?

After the assessment, the psychologist will analyze the test results, integrate them with the individual's history and other relevant information, and generate a detailed report. The report includes a summary of findings, diagnostic impressions (if applicable), recommendations for treatment or intervention, and suggestions for accommodations or support services, if necessary. The psychologist also meets with the individual or their family to discuss the results and provide further clarification or guidance.

How can a neuropsychological assessment be beneficial?

A neuropsychological assessment provides valuable information about an individual's cognitive strengths and weaknesses, which can help in understanding the underlying causes of their difficulties. It assists in the accurate diagnosis of neurological or psychiatric conditions, guiding appropriate treatment planning and interventions. Furthermore, the assessment results can inform educational or workplace accommodations, support services, and provide recommendations for rehabilitation strategies to optimize cognitive functioning and improve overall quality of life.

How long does a neuropsychological assessment take?

The duration of a neuropsychological assessment can vary depending on the complexity of the individual's case and the number of tests required. Assessments can range from a few hours to multiple sessions conducted over several days. The psychologist will provide an estimated timeline based on the specific needs and circumstances of each individual.

How is a neuropsychological evaluation different from a regular psychological evaluation?

A neuropsychological evaluation and a regular psychological evaluation are distinct assessments with different focuses and purposes. The former centers on examining cognitive and brain function, targeting areas such as memory, attention, language, and problem-solving. It is commonly used to diagnose conditions related to brain injuries, neurodevelopmental disorders, and dementia. On the other hand, a regular psychological evaluation addresses a broader scope of emotional, behavioral, and mental health issues, assisting in the diagnosis of mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and personality-related challenges.

The tools used in each evaluation may differ. Neuropsychological evaluations employ specific standardized tests designed to measure cognitive abilities and assess brain-related functions. In contrast, regular psychological evaluations may involve interviews, questionnaires, and psychological tests exploring emotional patterns, personality traits, and overall mental health.

The choice between the two evaluations depends on the concerns presented by the individual. Neuropsychological evaluations are suitable when there is cognitive decline, memory problems, attention difficulties, or neurodevelopmental issues. Regular psychological evaluations are appropriate for emotional distress, behavioral issues, and relationship challenges. In certain cases, both evaluations may be recommended for a comprehensive understanding of an individual's mental and cognitive functioning.

What can a client expect when attending a neuropsychological evaluation?

At the Utah Center for Evidence Based Treatment, clients can expect a thorough and professional neuropsychological evaluation aimed at understanding their cognitive and psychological functioning. The process begins with an initial consultation to discuss concerns and medical history. A tailored assessment battery, including various tests, assesses memory, attention, language, problem-solving, and executive functions. Testing sessions are conducted in a supportive environment over multiple hours.

The psychologist observes the client's behavior and interactions for further insights. In a feedback session, the results are discussed in detail, and clients can seek clarification. A comprehensive report is then provided, summarizing findings, offering diagnoses if applicable, and personalized intervention recommendations.

The evaluation aims to provide clients with a better understanding of their cognitive strengths and weaknesses, helping make informed decisions about potential treatments and interventions. Our team is dedicated to supporting clients throughout the process and beyond, ensuring they receive the care they deserve.

August 14, 2023

What is RO-DBT?

Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy (RO-DBT) is an evidence-based behavioral treatment for individuals who cope with their emotions by engaging in excessive self-control. These individuals are often described as being “type A”, perfectionistic, guarded, and hard to read. While our society usually puts a high value on our ability to exert self-control and delay gratification to achieve our goals, research has shown that too much self-control can hurt us, especially our relationships! 

Healthy long-term relationships require flexibility, adaptability, and open expression of emotions including the ability to be silly! People who are overcontrolled often struggle with these behaviors and types of thinking and can get caught in being overly focused on perfection and achievement. This can leave those individuals emotionally lonely and isolated from others. One of the worst things we can do to another human is put them in solitary confinement! RODBT teaches individuals how to become more openly expressive, which builds trust, and in turn builds social connection. 

What diagnoses does RODBT help treat? 

RODBT is considered a transdiagnostic treatment meaning there is not one diagnosis it is designed to treat. Many mental health diagnoses demonstrate over-control symptoms. There has been significant research, in randomized controlled research trials, demonstrating the effectiveness of RODBT in treating over-control symptoms in treatment-resistant anxiety and depression, autism, obsessive-compulsive personality styles, and anorexia nervosa.  

What does treatment look like? 

Outpatient RO-DBT (~30 weeks) 

  1. Individual sessions: 45min/week, focused on individual goals 
  2. Skills training class: 2.5 hrs (with 15 min break) 
    • Learn skills to: 
      • Increase self-awareness, and expand one’s ability to recognize and adopt alternative points of view 
      • Decrease inhibited and disingenuous emotional expression 
      • Reduce hyper-detailed focused and overly cautious behavior 
      • Address and loosen rigid and rule-governed behavior 
      • Decrease aloof and distant styles of relating 
      • Decrease high social comparison and envy/bitterness 
  3. Telephone consultation: optional but recommended 
    • To generalize skills use during difficult moments in between sessions 

How do I know if I'm better suited for RO-DBT vs. DBT?

Take this RO-DBT Quiz to see which modality might work best for you.

Welcome! On behalf of the Utah Center for Evidence Based Treatment (UCEBT), we are excited that you're interested in joining this volunteer community action group.

Are you a young adult (high school or college undergrad) who is interested in mental health and maybe making it into a career? Are you ready to get into the community and help promote mental health and social justice? If so, working with UCEBT's young adult community action group might be a great fit! 

Our psychologists will be meeting 2-4 times each month with young adult volunteers in the community to:

  • Discuss mental health issues facing young adults today
  • Brainstorm ways to address the most pressing issues
  • Plan outreach activities that support mental health and social justice in the community
  • Go out into the community and make a difference!

In addition to attending meetings, here are some things you might be doing:

  • Giving a presentation at a local high school about mental health
  • Joining our staff members to testify at legislative committee hearings
  • Staffing booths at events, distributing info to educate people on mental health

Here's a bit more information about UCEBT:

  • We are an out-patient mental health center in SLC
  • We provide evidence-based therapy and psychological evaluations
  • We are also a training center for psychology doctoral students
  • We provide trainings to mental health providers worldwide
  • We are women-owned, LGBTQ+ affirming, and this group, in particular, is led by women of color
  • We are a team of highly trained mental health professionals, predominately post-doctoral level psychologists
  • We have a staff of over 30 people, passionate about enhancing the mental health of our community 

Benefits of this volunteer group:

  • Exposure to the professional fields of mental health and psychology
  • Learn professional skills to add to your resume
  • Make professional connections in the community

If you are interested in joining this volunteer group, please complete the interest form and a group will reach out to you:

The Therapy for Black Girls Podcast is a weekly conversation with Dr. Joy Harden Bradford, a licensed Psychologist in Atlanta, Georgia, about all things mental health, personal development, and all the small decisions we can make to become the best possible versions of ourselves.

Check out this episode that features UCEBT's Dr. Kimberly Applewhite as she discusses her journey to becoming a therapist and talked all things personal development, business administration, insurance paneling, and more.

The information about writing Emotional Support Animal (ESA) Letters and who can receive them can often be confusing. There appears to be many resources of varying legitimacy available to clients and clinicians alike. It is our hope that this information helps to clarify the process for writing and qualifying for ESA letters.

Who can receive an ESA Letter? 

A client that has been determined to (1) have a mental health disability and (2) that their animal clinically helps with the symptoms of that mental health disability can receive a letter from a licensed mental health provider that supports an Emotional Support Animal. 

Who can write an ESA letter? 

ESA letters can be written by mental health providers that can assess an individual for disability. 

These mental health providers must be both licensed AND qualified to determine the disability. If the person is disabled due to a condition that the mental health provider can both diagnose and treat, then that provider can do an assessment for an ESA letter. 

If you are seeking a mental health provider to write an ESA letter, a good question to ask might be “can you assess for disability?” 

What is considered a “mental health disability”?  

A disability would be considered a condition that substantially limits one or more major life activity (e.g. walking, seeing, speaking, hearing, breathing, learning, etc.). An ESA would need to help alleviate the effects of one or more of the determined disabilities. 

The Social Security Administration (SSA) lists several mental disorders that would qualify for disability: 

  • Neurocognitive disorders
  • Schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders
  • Depressive, bipolar and related disorders 
  • Intellectual disorder
  • Anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorders
  • Somatic symptom and related disorders
  • Personality and impulse-control disorders
  • Autism spectrum disorder
  • Neurodevelopmental disorders
  • Eating disorders
  • Trauma- and stressor-related disorders

We highly recommend reviewing the information from the Social Security Administration (SSA) for more information on the mental disorders listed here.

Ethical considerations and conflicts of interest 

It could be considered a conflict of interest if a clinician is writing an ESA letter for their own therapy patient.  

If you are a therapist, consider referring your client to receive an outside assessment. If you are an assessment provider and not the client’s therapist (that is, there is no on-going relationship), it is considered ethical to provide a disability assessment for an ESA letter. 

Legal Obligations for ESA Letters 

The only two laws that directly apply to the use of ESAs for public accommodations are the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA, 2003) and the Fair Housing Act (FHA, 1968).  

Housing and air travel are the only two contexts in which an ESA is legally protected.

Emotional Support Animals vs. Service Animals 

According to the Americans with Disabilities Act, Emotional Support Animals are not considered “service animals”. Service animals are dogs (no other animal) that are specifically trained to perform tasks for a person with a disability; these tasks must be directly related to the disability.  

An example of a service animal is a guide dog who helps an individual with severe vision impairment or who is blind. When it comes to service animals, having a doctor’s note does not automatically qualify a dog as being a service animal. The law on what defines a service animal is different from state to state and it is recommended to check the laws in your state. 

ESA Letters and Disability Diagnosis at UCEBT 

Because ESA letters require that the client has a disability, UCBET can provide a full evaluation on an individual’s psychiatric/neurodevelopmental condition and determine if that condition contributes to a disability according to SSA standards. 

However, just because UCEBT conducts an evaluation does not guarantee a diagnosis. Even if an individual receives a diagnosis, that does not guarantee that the diagnosis will qualify for legal disability.

If you're interested in pursuing a full psychological evaluation at UCEBT, please keep in mind that we do not accept insurance. Rates for a comprehensive assessment range from approximately $2,200 to $2,800 depending on a variety of factors. Please complete this online form for a free consultation to learn more.

Other Places to Find Qualified Providers

You may consider looking at Psychology Today and searching for providers that can provide a “disability evaluation”. 

Helpful Resources: 

Emotional Support Animal Assessment/Letter Checklist (National Board of Forensic Evaluations) 

Standards that should be followed when providing an ESA letter 

University of Utah’s documentation requirements for disability accommodations

Do’s and Don’ts for Certifying Disability Due to Mental Illness 

What qualifies for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Benefits 

Utah’s Disability Determination Services

Disability Evaluation Under Social Security 

ADA's Info on Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals