Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about therapy, insomnia treatment, addiction recovery, and working with Pinover Psychology in La Jolla, San Diego.

Insomnia Treatment

What is CBT-I and how is it different from sleep medication?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is a structured, evidence-based treatment that addresses the thoughts and behaviors maintaining chronic insomnia. Unlike sleep medication, which works temporarily and can create dependence, CBT-I produces lasting improvement by changing the underlying patterns driving poor sleep. Clinical research consistently shows CBT-I outperforms medication for long-term outcomes, and it is recommended as the first-line treatment by the American College of Physicians.

How long does CBT-I take to work?

Most people notice significant improvement within 4–6 weeks of weekly sessions. CBT-I is a short-term, goal-focused treatment — typically 6 to 8 sessions. Some clients with complex presentations or co-occurring conditions may benefit from a longer course. Unlike medication, which stops working when you stop taking it, CBT-I skills last because you are changing the underlying sleep drive and conditioned arousal, not just masking symptoms.

Can CBT-I help if I have anxiety or depression alongside insomnia?

Yes. In fact, insomnia and anxiety or depression are highly co-occurring, and CBT-I has been shown to improve mood and anxiety symptoms alongside sleep. Dr. Pinover specializes in exactly this overlap — integrating CBT-I with psychodynamic or CBT approaches for anxiety and depression when both are present. Treating insomnia in isolation from co-occurring mental health conditions rarely produces durable results.

Addiction & Recovery

What treatment approaches do you use for addiction?

Dr. Pinover uses a psychodynamically-informed approach to addiction — one that treats substance use as a symptom of underlying emotional pain, self-regulation difficulties, or unresolved trauma, rather than a moral failing or simple habit. This is integrated with evidence-based modalities including Motivational Interviewing, relapse prevention planning, and when appropriate, referral coordination with medication-assisted treatment (MAT) providers. The goal is not just sobriety but understanding what the substance has been doing for you emotionally, and building genuine alternatives.

Do you work with people who aren’t sure they want to stop using?

Yes. Ambivalence about change is the norm, not the exception, in addiction work. Dr. Pinover is trained in Motivational Interviewing, which is specifically designed for working with ambivalence rather than against it. You do not need to have decided to quit in order to benefit from therapy. Exploring your relationship with substances — without pressure or judgment — is often where meaningful change begins.

Do you offer support for family members affected by a loved one’s addiction?

Yes. Living with or loving someone in active addiction is its own painful experience, and it often warrants its own therapeutic attention — separate from the person who is using. Dr. Pinover works with family members, partners, and parents navigating this. This may involve understanding enabling patterns, setting limits, processing grief and anger, and deciding how to show up for yourself regardless of what your loved one chooses.

Insurance & Access

What insurance plans does Pinover Psychology accept?

Pinover Psychology is in-network with Aetna, Blue Shield of California, Optum/United Healthcare (UHC), and Medi-Cal. If you have a different plan, out-of-network benefits may still apply — many PPO plans reimburse a significant portion of therapy costs when you see an out-of-network provider. We are happy to provide a superbill to submit to your insurer. Contact us to verify your specific coverage before your first appointment.

Are you currently accepting new clients?

Yes, Pinover Psychology is currently accepting new clients for individual therapy, CBT-I, and forensic evaluations. We also have availability with our supervised associate provider, Ned DeWitt, MA, who offers reduced-rate sessions for those with financial constraints. To schedule a free 15-minute consultation, contact us at 619-361-1154 or through the contact form on this site.

Do you offer telehealth?

Yes. Telehealth is available for individual therapy and CBT-I throughout California. Many clients prefer telehealth for convenience, and research shows it is equally effective for most presentations treated here — including anxiety, depression, insomnia, and addiction recovery. In-person sessions are available at our La Jolla office at 8950 Villa La Jolla Dr, Suite A220.

Provider Type & Therapy Approach

What is the difference between a psychologist and a therapist or counselor?

A psychologist holds a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) and is trained in both psychotherapy and psychological assessment. In California, psychologists are licensed by the Board of Psychology (Dr. Pinover holds license PSY 35712) and are qualified to conduct comprehensive psychological testing and forensic evaluations in addition to therapy. Therapists and counselors typically hold master’s degrees and provide therapy but do not conduct psychological assessments. The right fit depends on what you need — if you’re looking for therapy alone, a master’s-level provider may be an excellent option. If you need testing, a forensic evaluation, or a deeper level of clinical complexity, a licensed psychologist is appropriate.

What is a psychodynamic or depth therapy approach?

Psychodynamic therapy explores how unconscious patterns, early experiences, and relational history shape current emotional struggles. Rather than focusing only on symptoms, it asks what those symptoms mean — what needs, conflicts, or unresolved experiences they reflect. This approach is particularly effective for people who feel stuck despite trying to change, who struggle in relationships, or who want a deeper understanding of themselves rather than only symptom relief. Dr. Pinover integrates depth-oriented work with evidence-based techniques depending on what each client needs.

Do you offer a free consultation before starting therapy?

Yes. Dr. Pinover offers a complimentary 15-minute phone consultation to answer questions, discuss what you’re looking for, and determine whether Pinover Psychology is a good fit. There is no obligation. To schedule, call 619-361-1154 or use the contact form on this site.