Frequently Asked Questions
General Counseling Questions
How do I know counseling is right for me?
Everyone can benefit from counseling at some point in their lives - whether for an outside perspective, self-exploration, or healing. However, a good measure is if you are experiencing an emotional, thinking, or interpersonal pattern that is interfering with your contentment or ability to function, counseling is a good place for you.
What if I start counseling, but want to stop?
For the most part - unless it is court-ordered - counseling can be stopped at any point. However, we would ask that if you are considering ceasing the counseling relationship, you have one more conversation with your counselor to discuss that decision.
Do you offer group therapy or inpatient facilities?
We do not offer these services. However, we are happy to make referrals for other practices we trust who do offer those services.
How long does counseling last?
Each counseling session runs about 50 to 60 minutes. The duration of the counseling process - in weeks or number of sessions - is dependent on many factors, including the goals you set with your counselor, the frequency of your sessions, and your ability and willingness to put skills into practice outside of the counseling session.
What should I expect from counseling?
You can expect a well-trained and highly compassionate person who will listen to you, ask challenging questions, and guide you towards the goals you wish to achieve. Here is a link with further information. It is quite normal to ask questions about this with your therapist during the counseling process.
How long after leaving a voicemail should I wait to be called back?
Our Front Desk staff strives to return calls within 24 business hours from the time you left your message.
Do you offer evening and/or weekend appointments?
Most of our counselors offer evening appointments, but which specific evenings they offer is up to the discretion of the counselor. At present, we do not offer weekend appointments.
What ages of clients do you see?
Some therapists see clients beginning at age 3 or 4. The age range for each therapist depends on expertise, experience, and specialization. See the bios for details for each counselor.
Is there a parent session prior to seeing my child?
Yes. For every child and young adolescent, we schedule a parent session before meeting the child. The reason for this session is to get a broad understanding of the behaviors and/or emotions that are causing you to seek counseling for your child, discuss goals you might have, as well as gather a snapshot of the family and school life of your child.
Fees and Insurance Questions
Do you accept insurance?
Yes, all of our counselors are in-network with many major insurance providers, including BlueCross BlueShield, Aetna, and MedCost. Some of our counselors are on other insurance panels as well. Please check with our front desk staff using the Contact Us page to see if your insurance is covered.
Is payment due at the time of my appointment?
Yes. Payment is due at the time of your appointment. Payment can be made by check, cash, or credit/debit card (except American Express).
What is the cost for each session?
Our fee schedule can be found here.
How much of the cost does insurance cover?
The answer to this question varies by your specific plan. You would need to contact your insurance provider to ask about copays and deductibles prior to your first session.
How long do I have to cancel an appointment without being charged a cancellation fee?
You have up to 24 BUSINESS hours before the appointment to cancel an appointment without a cancellation fee. If you cancel within 24 BUSINESS hours before the appointment, you are subject to a fee.
Do you take Medicare or Medicaid?
Unfortunately, we don’t.
How do you collect payment?
We get a credit/debit card on file and charge the card at the time of service or the next business day. During the hours when our Front Desk staff is available, we can also accept cash, check, or credit/debit card.