Timko Behavioral Healthcare

A psychiatrist is a physician (MD or DO) who completes medical school and an additional three or four year psychiatric residency, and is licensed to prescribe medications. 

Psychotherapists and counselors may have various kinds of training of varying quality. Some therapist/counselors have only a bachelor's degree, some have a master's degree, and some have a doctorate. A person who describes himself/herself as a "psychotherapist" is not necessarily a licensed psychologist.

I am licensed as a Clinical Psychologist in the state of Florida.  You may verify my status through the Floirda Board of Psychology by searching Jennifer Timko, license # PY7381. 

With all of the changes children and adolescents go through, it is often difficult for parents to determine when they should be concerned and seek professional assistance and evaluation.

Children and adolescents with emotional, behavioral, or developmental problems will show different symptoms and behaviors based on their age. 

The most common symptoms for young children to present with are :

• withdrawal from activities, friends, and family
• excessive worry
• persistent somatic complaints with no medical explanation (headaches, stomachaches) 
• hyperactivity
• excessive, regular temper tantrums (without explanation)
• significant decline in school performance
• sleep disturbance (i.e. insomnia, hypersomnia, nightmares, night terrors)
• frequent aggression or acting out
• frequent opposition to authority and direction
• school refusal
• not reaching expected developmental milestones or regressing to early developmental levels

The most common symptoms for adolescents to present with are:

• significant decline in school performance
• withdrawal from family and friends
• refusal to participate in activities
• insomnia or hypersomnia
• significant changes in appetite or eating beahviors
• substance abuse
• sexual acting out
• persistent sadness, irritability, or mood swings
• excessive anxiety/worry
• physical complaints
• frequent anger and aggressive behavior
• frequent opposition to authority or direction
• skipping school
• running away or threatening to run away
• frequent thoughts of death and/or suicide
• threats to self or others
• self-injurious behavior 

If you suspect your child is having problems, you owe it to them to have them properly assessed. Although it is never to late to address problems, early intervention is always best.

Absolutely. Although many people seek out therapy after a traumatic event or due to chronic mental health issues, many people choose therapy as a growth opportunity and because they seek overall wellness.  This is particularly important during adolescent development (see Teen Life Coaching)when identity is being formed and they need to learn communication and relationship skills.  Since it is a normal part of adolescent development to begin separating from their parents, often parents have a difficult time "getting through" to their kids.  Therapy is a great way to bridge the gap.  

We do not subscribe to any insurance panels so that we can make treatment decisions and respect confidentiality without interference from a third party who is not an expert on your particular situation. In some cases, documenting mental health treatment (through the use of insurance) can affect your ability to get disability, health, or life insurance in the future. 

As a courtesy, we can submit claims to your insurance company to determine if they will provide any out-of-network benefits or apply any payments you make to any deductible you have not met.  You will be responsible for the amount the insurance does not cover.

On a case-by-case basis, I offer a sliding scale fee and alternative payment arrangements for those who qualify. 

We accept cash, personal checks, and credit cards.