Richard E. Sternlof, Psy.D., in Oklahoma City: Individual Therapy with Adult and Adolescent Focus

Richard E. Sternlof is a licensed clinical psychologist operating a solo practice in Oklahoma City, offering individual psychotherapy to adolescents and adults with an emphasis on depression, anxiety, and relationship concerns. His practice sits in the subset of independent practitioners rather than large group clinics or hospital-based psychology departments, a distinction that affects appointment availability, treatment continuity, and the type of insurance or payment arrangements typically available.

What the practice actually is

Sternlof holds a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) degree and operates as an individual provider rather than as part of a larger mental health system. This model means there is a single clinician, no rotating assignment of providers, and typically shorter wait times than clinics where scheduling may depend on multiple calendars. The practice is structured for ongoing therapeutic work rather than crisis intervention or psychiatric medication management, though collaboration with prescribing physicians (psychiatrists or primary care doctors) is common when medication is indicated.

Services and session structure

Sternlof offers individual psychotherapy sessions typically scheduled weekly, though frequency can vary based on clinical needs and patient preference. Sessions are usually 45 to 50 minutes. The practice works with patients on issues including depression, anxiety disorders, trauma-related concerns, relationship problems, and life transitions. Specific pricing information should be confirmed directly with the office; therapy fees in Oklahoma City for independent practitioners typically range from $100 to $180 per session, though rates vary by credentials and experience. Many patients use insurance; Sternlof's insurance participation status should be verified, as independent providers sometimes operate on a mix of in-network and out-of-pocket arrangements. Patients without insurance or with high deductibles often receive a self-pay fee, which the practice will discuss at the initial contact.

How this practice compares to other Oklahoma City options

Oklahoma City's psychology landscape includes large group practices such as Integrative Behavioral Health, which offers multiple providers, psychiatric medication management, and sometimes faster scheduling for new patients; hospital-based psychology departments affiliated with OU Medical Center or Mercy; and independent practitioners like Sternlof. Large groups suit patients who value medication evaluation in one location or who need flexible provider assignment; independent practices suit patients who prioritize continuity with a single clinician and are willing to work around one provider's schedule. Sternlof's solo model means no backup provider if he is on vacation, a real logistics consideration for ongoing care. The independent arrangement often allows deeper familiarity between therapist and client, especially important in anxiety or trauma work where stability in the therapeutic relationship itself is part of treatment.

Who this practice suits and who it does not

Sternlof's practice is appropriate for adolescents and adults seeking medium-to-longer-term psychotherapy for emotional or relational concerns. It works well for people with established insurance coverage, willingness to pay out-of-pocket, or both. It suits patients who have attempted brief interventions elsewhere and need more intensive ongoing work. It does not include psychiatric medication evaluation and management, so patients whose primary need is a medication consultation should contact a psychiatrist or psychiatric nurse practitioner separately; however, collaboration between Sternlof and a patient's prescriber is routine. The practice is not designed for crisis intervention or acute psychiatric emergencies; patients in crisis should go to an emergency department or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988).

What the first visit involves

A first appointment typically includes a clinical intake: the therapist gathers history regarding the presenting concern, relevant background, previous mental health treatment, family context, and current life circumstances. This intake conversation usually extends across the first session or two and informs the therapist's understanding of the person's situation and the appropriate treatment approach. Patients should bring insurance cards if coverage is being used, identification, and a list of current medications or previous psychiatric medications. The therapist will discuss confidentiality, limits of confidentiality (including duty to warn in cases of imminent harm), and fees. This is also the appropriate time to ask about the therapist's training and experience with the specific concern you bring and to discuss expectations for therapy duration.

Hours, location, and scheduling

Specific days and hours should be confirmed by phone or email directly with the office, as independent practices often have limited or variable availability. Most practices of this type operate by appointment only, with no walk-in availability. Parking is typically handled privately at the office location; confirm address details when booking.

Sternlof's solo practice model makes continuity of care straightforward, an advantage in therapy where the relationship between therapist and client is itself therapeutic. For people in Oklahoma City choosing between group clinics and independent practitioners, this practice represents the established independent option focused on sustained therapeutic work rather than rapid-access brief intervention.