Why do you call yourself Well Brain?
When I was thinking of a name for my business, I was reflecting on how in the mental health field we often focus on symptoms of illness rather than health and wellness. I also reflected on how I use my research background to inform my work with individuals with specific strengths and weaknesses. Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), as well as additional tools such as yoga and mindfulness, can keep our brains healthy and give us the skills we need to be resilient to life stress. The name actually came to me while meditating at a yoga retreat! The bottom line is that wellness is a skill that can be learned.
What is Cognitive Behavior Therapy?
Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) works by changing the way you think (cognition) as well as the way you act (behavior) to positively influence your mood. Medications can work more directly on mood by acting on regions of the brain directly involved in emotion (such as the amygdala), whereas CBT acts on regions such as the prefrontal cortex, which is the part of the brain directly behind your forehead involved in tasks like decision making and planning. The philosophy behind CBT is that you can learn skills to change your thoughts and actions that will change how you feel. CBT is typically time-limited, in that the goal is for you or your child to learn skills and feel effective using them on your own. That doesn’t mean you can’t come back for booster sessions when you have a new life stressor or need a bit of support remembering everything you’ve learned. You can learn more about CBT through these links: Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies and the Beck Institute.
Do you take insurance?
I do not work with managed care directly. If you have out-of-network benefits through your health insurance carrier, you may choose to submit claims. At your request, I can issue a "superbill" receipt that you can submit to your insurance company.
Am I a good fit for your practice?
I especially enjoy working with young adults who have an openness to mindfulness and meditation. These individuals are finding their sense of purpose and want to learn the skills to cultivate a happy life. My ideal client understands that I am a coach offering tools. They are willing to experiment in their life through practice. They have the time and energy to actively participate as we co-create an evidence-based treatment package that works for them.
I thought you work with kids?
I am supporting young adults during this challenging ongoing pandemic. I have hired two fabulous therapists to help me with pediatric referrals.
"Dr. Rachel Jacobs did a phenomenal job treating my young daughter for a highly unusual situation. In order to treat, research and collaboration were critical. Dr. Jacobs worked well with us, the school, and other doctors and was able to effectively treat and resolve the situation quickly. We felt very supported through the process. And, perhaps most importantly, my daughter had a very positive experience working with Dr. Jacobs."
