Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are your credentials?

I’m a licensed clinical psychologist with a strong foundation in both clinical and counseling psychology. I completed my doctorate (Ph.D.) in Clinical Psychology at St. John's University in New York, and my master’s degree in Clinical and Counseling Psychology at Teachers College, Columbia University. I’m also proud to be an alumna of Clark Atlanta University, an HBCU, where I earned my bachelor’s degree in psychology. In addition to my formal education, I have advanced training in neuropsychological assessment, which allows me to provide specialized evaluations for cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functioning. I’m deeply committed to lifelong learning and pursuing continuing education and advanced training to stay current with the best practices in psychology and neuropsychology. If you’re interested in learning more about my clinical background and professional experience, feel free to visit my LinkedIn profile or virtual resume. I believe that strong training, paired with empathy and cultural awareness, lays the groundwork for meaningful therapeutic work.

Question

What are your credentials?

Answer 1

Dr. Rebecca A. Steele is a licensed clinical psychologist with training in clinical psychology. She earned her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from St. John's University, her master’s degree in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Columbia University, and her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Clark Atlanta University, an HBCU.

Dr. Steele also has advanced training in neuropsychology and pursues continuing education to stay current with evidence-based practice. More information is available through her LinkedIn profile and virtual resume.

Answer 2

The private, complimentary 10-minute consultation is a brief first conversation to ask initial questions, share what support is being sought, and learn whether Restored Living may be a good fit. It is not a therapy or assessment session and does not establish a treatment relationship.

Answer 3

Dr. Rebecca A. Steele is a licensed clinical psychologist with training in clinical and counseling psychology. She earned her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from St. John's University, her master’s degree in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Teachers College, Columbia University, and her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Clark Atlanta University, an HBCU.

Dr. Steele also has advanced training in neuropsychological assessment and pursues continuing education to stay current with evidence-based practice. More information is available through her LinkedIn profile and virtual resume.

Answer 4

The private, complimentary 10-minute consultation is a brief first conversation to ask initial questions, share what support is being sought, and learn whether Restored Living may be a good fit. It is not a therapy or assessment session and does not establish a treatment relationship.

Answer 5

No. Many clients contact Restored Living directly when they want clarity about memory, focus, brain fog, cognitive stamina, or subtle changes in thinking.

Answer 6

No. Many clients are high-functioning adults who are still working, leading, caregiving, and managing full lives, but feel less mentally clear than they used to.

Answer 7

Clients leave with clinical perspective, clearer language, personalized recommendations, and a plan for next steps.

Answer 8

Cognitive difficulties can affect thinking, concentration, memory, or executive functions (like planning or decision-making). These challenges can be mild or significant and may result from medical, neurological, or psychological conditions.

Answer 9

Changes can result from a variety of factors, including:

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) or concussion
Stroke or brain tumors
Dementia or other neurodegenerative diseases
ADHD or learning disorders
Depression, anxiety, or chronic stress
Medical conditions (e.g., sleep apnea, thyroid issues)
Normal aging

Answer 10

If you or others notice persistent difficulties with memory, attention, organization, or decision-making that interfere with daily life, a cognitive assessment can provide clarity and guidance.

Answer 11

It’s a structured evaluation of brain-based abilities like attention, memory, reasoning, language, and emotional functioning. It helps identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas for cognitive rehabilitation (i.e., treatment).

Answer 12

You’ll complete a series of tests, questionnaires, and interviews. These may involve tasks like remembering words, solving puzzles, identifying patterns, or answering questions. The full process can take as little as 20 minutes (for a screener) or as long as several hours for a full evaluation, depending on the referral reason.

Answer 13

It may contribute to a diagnosis, such as ADHD, mild cognitive impairment, dementia, or a learning disorder. However, diagnosis depends on multiple factors, including your history, test results, and clinical judgment.

Answer 14

Contact Restored Living to request a consultation or submit a referral. Dr. Steele will help determine which type of evaluation may best fit your needs.

Answer 15

Cognitive rehabilitation is a therapy approach that helps people improve or adapt to cognitive difficulties. It may include exercises to strengthen attention or memory, compensatory strategies, and coaching for daily function.

Answer 16

Individuals recovering from brain injury, managing ADHD, or coping with age-related memory changes often benefit from this approach.

Answer 17

It varies depending on the person’s goals and condition. Some benefit from short-term intervention (e.g., 6–12 sessions), while others may work longer-term on complex goals. Progress is reviewed regularly.

Answer 18

Cognitive rehabilitation focuses specifically on thinking skills and daily functioning, while psychotherapy addresses emotional well-being and mental health. In some cases, both are recommended and complementary.

Answer 19

While it can’t prevent dementia, cognitive rehabilitation may help people maintain function, use compensatory strategies, and improve quality of life in early stages of cognitive decline.

Answer 20

Yes. The brain is adaptable throughout life. With practice, structure, and support, many people can strengthen skills or learn effective ways to work around challenges.

Answer 21

Contact Restored Living to request a consultation. Dr. Steele will help determine whether cognitive rehabilitation may fit your needs and goals.

Answer 22

No. Many clients contact Restored Living directly when they want clarity about memory, focus, brain fog, cognitive stamina, or subtle changes in thinking.

Answer 23

No. Many clients are high-functioning adults who are still working, leading, caregiving, and managing full lives, but feel less mentally clear than they used to.

Answer 24

Clients leave with clinical perspective, clearer language, personalized recommendations, and a plan for next steps.

Answer 25

Cognitive difficulties can affect thinking, concentration, memory, or executive functions (like planning or decision-making). These challenges can be mild or significant and may result from medical, neurological, or psychological conditions.

Answer 26

Changes can result from a variety of factors, including:

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) or concussion
Stroke or brain tumors
Dementia or other neurodegenerative diseases
ADHD or learning disorders
Depression, anxiety, or chronic stress
Medical conditions (e.g., sleep apnea, thyroid issues)
Normal aging

Answer 27

If you or others notice persistent difficulties with memory, attention, organization, or decision-making that interfere with daily life, a cognitive assessment can provide clarity and guidance.

Answer 28

It’s a structured evaluation of brain-based abilities like attention, memory, reasoning, language, and emotional functioning. It helps identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas for cognitive rehabilitation (i.e., treatment).

Answer 29

You’ll complete a series of tests, questionnaires, and interviews. These may involve tasks like remembering words, solving puzzles, identifying patterns, or answering questions. The full process can take as little as 20 minutes (for a screener) or as long as several hours for a full evaluation, depending on the referral reason.

Answer 30

It may contribute to a diagnosis, such as ADHD, mild cognitive impairment, dementia, or a learning disorder. However, diagnosis depends on multiple factors, including your history, test results, and clinical judgment.

Answer 31

Contact Restored Living to request a consultation or submit a referral. Dr. Steele will help determine which type of evaluation may best fit your needs.

Answer 32

Cognitive rehabilitation is a therapy approach that helps people improve or adapt to cognitive difficulties. It may include exercises to strengthen attention or memory, compensatory strategies, and coaching for daily function.

Answer 33

Individuals recovering from brain injury, managing ADHD, or coping with age-related memory changes often benefit from this approach.

Answer 34

It varies depending on the person’s goals and condition. Some benefit from short-term intervention (e.g., 6–12 sessions), while others may work longer-term on complex goals. Progress is reviewed regularly.

Answer 35

Cognitive rehabilitation focuses specifically on thinking skills and daily functioning, while psychotherapy addresses emotional well-being and mental health. In some cases, both are recommended and complementary.

Answer 36

While it can’t prevent dementia, cognitive rehabilitation may help people maintain function, use compensatory strategies, and improve quality of life in early stages of cognitive decline.

Answer 37

Yes. The brain is adaptable throughout life. With practice, structure, and support, many people can strengthen skills or learn effective ways to work around challenges.

Answer 38

Contact Restored Living to request a consultation. Dr. Steele will help determine whether cognitive rehabilitation may fit your needs and goals.

Answer 39

It's an assessment conducted by a licensed psychologist to evaluate your mental and emotional readiness for surgery. It helps your medical team understand how psychological factors may affect your recovery, treatment compliance, and long-term outcomes.

Answer 40

Certain surgeries, such as bariatric surgery, spinal cord stimulators, or pain management devices, require psychological clearance to:

Ensure you understand the risks and benefits of the procedure
Assess your ability to follow post-operative instructions
Identify emotional or behavioral factors that may impact success
Offer recommendations to improve your outcome

Answer 41

Some common examples include:

Bariatric (weight loss) surgery
Spinal cord stimulator implantation
Certain orthopedic or neurosurgeries

Answer 42

The process usually includes:

A clinical interview (discussing your medical, psychological, and social history)
Standardized questionnaires and psychological testing
A review of relevant medical records
A written report with recommendations for your surgical team

Answer 43

Typically, the evaluation lasts 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity of the case and testing involved.

Answer 44

This isn’t a pass/fail test. The purpose is to identify any issues that could interfere with a successful outcome and, if needed, recommend support or interventions to help you succeed. If concerns arise, your medical team will work with you to address them.

Answer 45

Your information is protected under privacy law and professional ethics. A summary report is shared with your surgical team only with your written consent, and we'll explain exactly what it includes.

Answer 46

Restored Living is a private-pay practice in New York and Georgia and does not bill insurance. Payment is due at the time of service. For clients with out-of-network benefits, reimbursement support may be available through Mentaya, a third-party service that helps submit claims. Coverage varies by plan, so please check your benefits with your insurer.

Answer 47

Not necessarily. Many patients with mental health histories go on to have successful surgeries. The goal is to ensure you have the proper support before and after your procedure.

Answer 48

That’s normal. The evaluation is not meant to be intimidating—it’s meant to help you prepare emotionally and psychologically for the changes that come with surgery.

Answer 49

After the evaluation, Dr. Steele prepares a report summarizing the findings and, with written consent, shares it with the referring physician or surgical team. The report may include recommendations for additional support when clinically appropriate.

Answer 50

Psychotherapy (or “talk therapy”) is a collaborative process where you work with a trained mental health professional to explore thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and relationships. Therapy can help you gain insight, develop coping strategies, and make meaningful changes.

Answer 51

Yes, research consistently shows that psychotherapy is effective for a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship problems. The key factors include your willingness to engage and the quality of the therapeutic relationship.

Answer 52

Psychologists, including Dr. Steele, have doctoral training and may provide psychotherapy and psychological assessment. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who typically focus on prescribing medication. Therapist is a general term for professionals who provide talk therapy, including social workers, mental health counselors, and other master’s-level clinicians.

Answer 53

Dr. Steele uses evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), DBT-informed skills, and Problem-Solving Therapy (PST), tailored to each client’s needs and goals. The approach is selected collaboratively.

Answer 54

A typical session may begin with updates from the previous visit and continue with work toward the client’s goals. Some sessions are structured; others are more open, with the client’s priorities guiding the pace.

Answer 55

Therapy can be helpful for anxiety, phobias, trauma-related concerns, and relationship difficulties. Dr. Steele tailors treatment to the individual’s needs, goals, and clinical context.

Answer 56

Yes. Clients may pause or end therapy at any time. When possible, Dr. Steele encourages discussing the decision so the work can end thoughtfully and any next steps can be considered.

Answer 57

It's an assessment conducted by a licensed psychologist to evaluate your mental and emotional readiness for surgery. It helps your medical team understand how psychological factors may affect your recovery, treatment compliance, and long-term outcomes.

Answer 58

Certain surgeries, such as bariatric surgery, spinal cord stimulators, or pain management devices, require psychological clearance to:

Ensure you understand the risks and benefits of the procedure
Assess your ability to follow post-operative instructions
Identify emotional or behavioral factors that may impact success
Offer recommendations to improve your outcome

Answer 59

Some common examples include:

Bariatric (weight loss) surgery
Spinal cord stimulator implantation
Certain orthopedic or neurosurgeries

Answer 60

The process usually includes:

A clinical interview (discussing your medical, psychological, and social history)
Standardized questionnaires and psychological testing
A review of relevant medical records
A written report with recommendations for your surgical team

Answer 61

Typically, the evaluation lasts 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity of the case and testing involved.

Answer 62

This isn’t a pass/fail test. The purpose is to identify any issues that could interfere with a successful outcome and, if needed, recommend support or interventions to help you succeed. If concerns arise, your medical team will work with you to address them.

Answer 63

Your information is protected under privacy law and professional ethics. A summary report is shared with your surgical team only with your written consent, and we'll explain exactly what it includes.

Answer 64

Restored Living is a private-pay practice in New York and Georgia and does not bill insurance. Payment is due at the time of service. For clients with out-of-network benefits, reimbursement support may be available through Mentaya, a third-party service that helps submit claims. Coverage varies by plan, so please check your benefits with your insurer.

Answer 65

Not necessarily. Many patients with mental health histories go on to have successful surgeries. The goal is to ensure you have the proper support before and after your procedure.

Answer 66

That’s normal. The evaluation is not meant to be intimidating—it’s meant to help you prepare emotionally and psychologically for the changes that come with surgery.

Answer 67

After the evaluation, Dr. Steele prepares a report summarizing the findings and, with written consent, shares it with the referring physician or surgical team. The report may include recommendations for additional support when clinically appropriate.

Answer 68

Psychotherapy (or “talk therapy”) is a collaborative process where you work with a trained mental health professional to explore thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and relationships. Therapy can help you gain insight, develop coping strategies, and make meaningful changes.

Answer 69

Yes, research consistently shows that psychotherapy is effective for a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship problems. The key factors include your willingness to engage and the quality of the therapeutic relationship.

Answer 70

Psychologists, including Dr. Steele, have doctoral training and may provide psychotherapy and psychological assessment. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who typically focus on prescribing medication. Therapist is a general term for professionals who provide talk therapy, including social workers, mental health counselors, and other master’s-level clinicians.

Answer 71

Dr. Steele uses evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), DBT-informed skills, and Problem-Solving Therapy (PST), tailored to each client’s needs and goals. The approach is selected collaboratively.

Answer 72

A typical session may begin with updates from the previous visit and continue with work toward the client’s goals. Some sessions are structured; others are more open, with the client’s priorities guiding the pace.

Answer 73

Therapy can be helpful for anxiety, phobias, trauma-related concerns, and relationship difficulties. Dr. Steele tailors treatment to the individual’s needs, goals, and clinical context.

Answer 74

Yes. Clients may pause or end therapy at any time. When possible, Dr. Steele encourages discussing the decision so the work can end thoughtfully and any next steps can be considered.

Frequently Asked Questions

General

General

Cognitive Evaluation

Cognitive Rehabilitation

Cognitive Evaluation

Cognitive Rehabilitation

Comprehensive Pre-Surgical Psychological Evaluations

Psychotherapy

Comprehensive Pre-Surgical Psychological Evaluations

Fees, Insurance, and Out-of-Network Benefits

Contact Us

Let’s Take The First Step Together

Psychotherapy

Fees, Insurance, and Out-of-Network Benefits

Contact Us

Let’s Take The First Step Together

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