Debbie Thigpen
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Debbie ThigpenMSW, LCSW
MSW, Tulane University, 1993
Call and we’ll let you know if Debbie is taking new clients.
and most major plans
I enjoy working with older adults because they are so genuine, and they bring their life experiences to the table.
Q&A with Debbie
Getting to know Debbie
What do you enjoy most about working with older adults?
I enjoy working with older adults because they are so genuine, and they bring their life experiences to the table. I also enjoy that older adults are truly wanting to make changes in their lives.
Why does online therapy work well for older adults?
I feel online therapy is effective for older adults because it eliminates any barriers that might hinder them from getting traditional therapy such as transportation or health issues. Additionally, I think older adults feel more comfortable in their own surroundings making it easier to tackle some of the tough issues they are facing.
How do you approach therapy sessions?
I am a very down to earth person and want the people I see to have confidence that they can trust me. I believe that therapy is a team between the therapist and the client to help them reach their goals.
I approach therapy from several different perspectives such as Solution Focused, Psychoeducation, and Motivational Interviewing to name a few. Therapy is not a one size fits all. I gear my therapeutic approach to the client I am seeing and the goals they are wanting to achieve.
What inspired you to become a therapist?
I was working as an Executive Assistant to the Assistant Director of our local community mental health center. I was impressed with the changes we were able to make in people's lives that I decided I wanted to have a more in-depth role in helping people become the happiest and healthiest version of themselves.
What is your advice for someone starting therapy for the first time?
Don't be afraid just open your heart and mind. You will be amazed at what you can accomplish seeing someone to discuss your issues.
What do you wish people knew about therapy?
Just consider it talking over your life's problems with someone who is trained to look at life through a different set of lenses. Therapy is about helping people see problems from a different perspective and coming up with a solution that works for them.
Don't be afraid just open your heart and mind. You will be amazed at what you can accomplish seeing someone to discuss your issues.
Some fun facts about me are that I love to travel. So far, I have visited France, Belgium, Holland, and the Bahamas as well as most of the United States. I also am a competitive powerlifter and have been the two-time National Champion and have set several world records.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
Choose a topic. Can’t find your answer? Call our care team at 1-800-567-LIFE.
About Total Life
Who is the service for?
Our service is tailored for seniors looking to navigate the challenges of aging and aiming to make their golden years, golden.
What is the core purpose of your teletherapy service?
Our core purpose is to help as many seniors as possible access the mental health care they need, irrespective of their insurance coverage. We believe everyone deserves quality mental health care.
How is your service tailored to seniors?
Our platform is easy to use, with straightforward steps to connect you with a therapist. Additionally, our care team is always ready to assist you from start to finish.
How can teletherapy help me feel like the best version of myself?
Teletherapy provides a supportive environment to explore and address concerns, helping you work through challenges and promoting mental well-being.
How is your service different from conventional therapy?
Unlike conventional therapy, we provide access to therapy through Original Medicare coverage. Our care team facilitates a smooth process from the initial call all the way through ongoing care.
Insurance & coverage
Are your teletherapy services covered by Original Medicare?
Yes, our services are accessible through Original Medicare coverage, making mental health care more accessible for seniors.
Do you accept insurance plans other than Original Medicare?
Yes, we accept select Medicare Advantage (MA) plans. Please contact our care team to verify if your specific plan is accepted.
How do I pay for my sessions?
Payment can be made through various methods including Original Medicare coverage. Our care team can provide more detailed information based on your specific situation.
Is there a limit to the number of sessions I can have?
Original Medicare has an uncapped session limit; the number of sessions will be determined based on your individual needs and treatment plan.
What is a Superbill and how can it benefit me?
A Superbill is an itemized form that details the services you have received from us. It provides all the information needed to submit a claim to your insurance for out-of-network reimbursement.
If I have out-of-network benefits, how does the reimbursement process work?
If you have out-of-network benefits, you can submit the Superbill we provide to your insurance company for reimbursement. The reimbursement rate and process depend on your plan.
How do I obtain a Superbill for my sessions?
After each session, we can provide you with a Superbill. Our care team will assist you in generating a Superbill for your records.
Therapists & sessions
How experienced are your providers in working with older adults?
Our providers are hired specifically for their experience with older adults. They are trained and equipped to understand and address the unique mental health needs of seniors.
Can I choose my therapist?
We make every effort to match you with a therapist who has the right experience and expertise for your needs. If you have a preference, we’ll do our best to accommodate it.
What if I don’t feel a connection with my therapist?
It’s important to have a good rapport with your therapist. If for any reason you wish to change therapists, just let us know and we’ll facilitate a switch.
How is progress measured in teletherapy?
Progress is measured through regular reviews and discussions between you and your therapist, ensuring that the therapy is effective and meeting your needs.
Getting started
How quickly can I start with my therapy sessions?
Our care team is dedicated to facilitating a quick and easy process from your first phone call to setting up a therapy session on the same call.
How do I schedule a teletherapy session?
Scheduling a session is simple. Just give us a call at 1-800-567-LIFE and our care team will assist you in setting up a session on the first call itself.
Do I need any special equipment for teletherapy?
All you need is a computer, tablet, or smartphone with a camera and microphone, and a reliable internet connection. Phone-only sessions are also available.
What if I need to cancel or reschedule my appointment?
We have a flexible cancellation and rescheduling policy. Just contact our care team and they will assist you with the necessary changes.