Executive Functioning
EXECUTIVE FUNCTION SUPPORT FOR CHILDREN AND ADULTS
The Unfold Psychology Team provides specialized support for children and adults to address specific executive function deficits and help clients form new habits to overcome the challenges they face. Training and therapy for executive function deficits typically involve a combination of cognitive and behavioral approaches, including skills training, self-monitoring, organization strategies, and mindfulness techniques. These interventions aim to improve planning, problem-solving, attention, working memory, and emotional regulation, which are crucial for daily functioning and goal achievement. Some of the commonly used interventions include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), computerized cognitive training (CCT), and coaching. The effectiveness of these interventions depends on several factors, including the severity and specificity of the deficits, the individual's motivation, and the quality and intensity of the intervention.
WHAT IS EXECUTIVE FUNCTION?
Executive function refers to a set of mental skills and processes that enable individuals to plan, organize, prioritize, initiate, sustain, and shift attention between tasks effectively. It involves cognitive, emotional, and behavioral processes such as working memory, self-control, decision-making, problem-solving, and time management. Executive function plays a critical role in everyday activities such as learning, social interaction, and goal-directed behavior. Individuals with executive function deficits may experience challenges in completing tasks, regulating emotions and behavior, and adapting to new situations.
OUR APPROACH
Initially, parents will meet with Dr. Heafey for an initial session to discuss their child's behaviors and parent concerns and goals. Typically, your child will meet with Dr. Heafey on a weekly basis, and if appropriate receive additional support from our Education Specialists. Every 3-4 weeks, or more frequently depending on your family's goals, parent will meet with Dr. Heafey and with both parents and child. Most children receive treatment over a period of 4-6 months. When new challenges arise, our team is available to resume services.
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FEES FOR SERVICES
Fees for sessions vary depending on the level of support your child and family require. The initial parent session with Dr. Heafey is $450. The one-hour session will include a comprehensive intake, identifying your concerns and goals for your child. Dr. Heafey will spend time outside of your initial session reviewing records and background information. The fee for sessions following the initial appointment is $325 per 50-minute session.
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We do not accept health insurance directly, although we are happy to submit claims directly to your insurance company, as well as provide Superbills that are necessary for reimbursement by PPO health insurance plans, medical flexible spending and health savings accounts. Families with HMO or EPO insurance plans should contact their insurance providers, as most often these plans will not provide reimbursement for services rendered by an out-of-network provider.
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As the result of the 2022 No Surprises Act, please be aware that you have the right to receive a good faith estimate of healthcare treatment costs. Your Good Faith Estimate will be uploaded to your client portal at the time that you schedule an initial appointment. However, you can ask our intake coordinator or your provider for this estimate before you schedule a service or at any other time during treatment. If you receive a bill over $400 more than your good faith estimate, you can dispute the bill. For more information regarding the good faith estimate and/or dispute process, see your good faith estimate or visit https://www.cms.gov/nosurprises
EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONING
Executive function refers to a set of cognitive processes that help individuals plan, organize, and manage their behavior. Children and adults with executive function deficits may struggle with tasks such as attention, problem-solving, and completing tasks. There are a variety of interventions that can support executive function in children and adults, including behavioral therapy, cognitive training, and medication. In addition, strategies like using checklists, breaking tasks into smaller steps, and prioritizing tasks can help individuals with executive function deficits manage their daily lives more effectively.
ADHD AND EXECUTIVE FUNCTION
ADHD and executive function support is critical in helping children and adults manage the challenges associated with ADHD and executive function deficits. This includes providing strategies to improve organization, planning, time management, and prioritization skills. Support may also include teaching coping mechanisms to manage impulsivity, distractibility, and emotional regulation difficulties. Behavioral therapy and medication management can be helpful tools in addressing ADHD symptoms. Additionally, creating a supportive environment at home, school, and in the workplace is essential to help individuals with ADHD succeed.