MARCUS J HOCHSTETLER 14150 CULVER # 203 IRVINE CA 92604- Marriage and Family Therapist

Buyer Beware! Marcus working with Sherry Cheng did not request background records or my medical history at the onset of therapy or during my treatment sessions. Neither of them evaluated me for any psychological illness! Neither of them required me to fill out any Psychological Intake Form--which is standard practice in the industry. Neither of them conducted any psychological testing, i.e. MMPI, etc. again this is substandard in the industry. To my knowledge neither of them coordinated with each other or the referring Psychiatrist Amal Tanagho on what medications Dr. Tanagho was dispensing to me. Therefore, all of my sessions were half-baked and consisted of their taking notes regarding my medications side effects and not my actual symptoms! Also, Marcus stated to me to "Increase my Klonopin usage by 1/2 pill per day instead of drinking alcohol" and later denied stated this, since in his own words he is "not authorized" to give advice on meds! Due to the above negligence my condition became extremely worse. Unfortunately, I learned the hard way that it is important to pre-qualify any medical professional/service provider PRIOR to seeking their assistance. Evaluate them on http.:/Vitals.com, also your current Family Doctor, and current Health Insurance Carrier. Also, don't be intimidated in interviewing at least three (3) different therapists over the phone PRIOR to meeting them and qualify them as to how they sound--caring or not, do they treat you as an equal or are they condescending, do they recommend meds or are meds a last resort--meds should always be a last resort! If they do not have a caring attitude, end your conversation and move on to the next therapist!'