Dr. Buscho is a licensed clinical psychologist. Psychologists hold a doctoral degree in psychology and are licensed as psychologists. They are also required to complete supervised experience, generally 1-2 years of internship and 1-2 years of supervised postdoctoral experience. All psychologists are required to be grounded in the biological basis of behavior, with some psychologists taking a specialty in this area in the doctoral program and in subsequent educational opportunities.
A psychiatrist is a physician (MD) who pursued education and training in psychiatry after receiving a medical degree, with many of those individuals achieving board certification in neurology and psychiatry. The orientation of a psychiatrist is typically more biological, the training in psychotherapy is often minimal, and they do not receive training in psychological assessment or testing.
Both professionals have doctoral degrees in their field, may provide psychotherapy and counseling services and help patients/clients maintain and enhance their physical, intellectual, emotional, social and interpersonal functioning. The number of years in education and training is about the same for both professions in the US (6-7 years following the undergraduate degree).
Other licensed mental health care professionals (MFT’s, social workers) typically hold a masters level degree, and may have completed less supervised experience.
I work collaboratively with other providers to give you the full spectrum of services that you may need. If you take medications I can help monitor them and provide feedback to your psychiatrist. In working with children or issues related to illness or pain, I work collaboratively with your medical doctor, pediatrician or other specialist.
Please call me so that we can talk about how I can help you. We will also discuss your scheduling needs and my availability. If you decide to make an appointment, we will do so. You may download and complete the few required forms. Please bring them to your first session.
I work with individuals, children and adults, couples and families. When we speak on the phone, we will discuss the best way to approach the issues you would like to address.
We will discuss fees during our initial phone call. Generally the fee is due in advance or at the time of each session. Fees range depending on factors such as legal involvement, out of session time requirements, etc. In some cases, such as collaborative divorce, a prepayment or a retainer is required.
I no longer accept insurance. However, I am happy to assist you by providing a receipt for service to submit for reimbursement to your insurance company. You should check with them to see what (if any) costs your insurer will reimburse. Insurers will not reimburse for collaborative coaching.
Generally I see clients on weekdays between 8:30 and 5:30, with some exceptions.
My primary office is in downtown San Rafael. Plenty of parking is available. You will find the address, directions and a map on my contact page.
Appointment times are held specifically for you. I have a 48 hour cancellation policy. Without such notice, you will be charged for the session.
At our first meeting we will establish a plan that is tailored to your needs. There are no requirements as to frequency or number of meetings. Typically weekly meetings in the beginning help “jump start” the healing or change process. We would meet more or less often as appropriate in your situation. The duration of therapy could be brief or long-term, depending on your specific goals and interests.
If I am out of town, a colleague will be my “back up” and their name and phone number will be on my voicemail. Additional information will be provided at the start of our work. In an emergency, you can also call Psychiatric Emergency Services at 415-499-6666. Someone will answer the call 24 hours a day. Please do NOT use email for communication that is either urgent or confidential. I normally check email once a day in the evening.
Yes. Confidentiality in therapy is protected by California law, with some mandated exceptions. Disclosure is required when I have reason to believe that you are in danger of hurting yourself or someone else; in cases of suspected child or elder abuse and/or neglect; or pursuant to a legal proceeding. In couples and family therapy, confidentiality does not apply between the couple or family members. Disclosure of confidential information may be required by your health insurance carrier in order to process your claims. Confidentiality of cell phone or email communication cannot be ensured.