FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

 

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT AT MY FIRST COUNSELING SESSION?

The first session typically lasts anywhere from 45-60 minutes.  First , this is an opportunity for you to get an understanding of how we approach therapy. Then, it is  a great introduction for you to get to know your therapist.  It is an opportunity for us to begin to know you and the problems with which you are struggling.  Finally, this will be a chance for you to explain what brought you to counseling and how you hope we can assist you.

 

WHAT DO THE LETTERS AFTER MY THERAPISTS NAME MEAN?

  • MS Master’s of Science Degree
  • MA Master’s of Arts Degree
  • LPC Licensed Professional Counselor
  • LCDC Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor
  • LMFT Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
  • LCSW Licensed Clinical Social Worker

All of our therapists are unique in their training and in their approach to counseling

 

WILL THE THINGS I DISCUSS IN THERAPY BE KEPT PRIVATE?

Confidentiality is a respected part of counseling's code of ethics. Therapist understand that for people to feel comfortable talking about private and revealing information, they need a safe place to talk about anything they'd like, without fear of that information leaving the room. They take your privacy very seriously.

Laws are also in place to protect your privacy. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) contains a privacy rule that creates national standards to protect individuals' medical records and personal health information, including information about psychotherapy and mental health.

 

WHAT US VIRTUAL COUNSELING?

Virtual counseling, also known as online counseling or tele-therapy, is a form of counseling where sessions are conducted through secure video conferencing, phone calls, or chat. Our counselors use HIPAA compliant platforms to ensure confidentiality and privacy.

 

WHAT DO I NEED TO BE ABLE TO DO VIRTUAL COUNSELING?

To participate in virtual counseling, you'll need a device (computer, tablet, or smartphone) with a reliable internet connection. Our virtual platform is user-friendly, and we provide instructions to ensure a smooth experience.

 

WHAT OCCURS WHEN YOU  FEEL READY TO CONCLUDE COUNSELING?

Many individuals feel apprehensive about ending therapy, which is entirely normal. The process of concluding sessions is a conversation between you and your counselor. Even after your regular sessions end, you can still reach out to your therapist whenever necessary and schedule additional maintenance sessions as needed..

 

WHAT IS YOUR CANCELLATION POLICY?

Client Responsibility

By scheduling an appointment, you agree to be financially responsible for services rendered and for adhering to the policies outlined below.

Clients are required to cancel or reschedule appointments at least 48 hours in advance of the scheduled session time. This allows the opportunity to offer that time to another client in need of services.

Late Cancellation & No-Show Fees

  • Appointments not canceled at least 48 hours in advance will be considered a late cancellation and will incur a fee of $140.00.
  • Failure to attend a scheduled session without prior notice (no-call/no-show) will result in a charge of the full session fee of $140.00.
  • Saturday appointments require special consideration due to limited availability. A no-call/no-show on Saturdays will automatically be charged the full session fee of $140.00.

All cancellation and no-show fees will be billed directly to the client and are not billable to insurance.

Payment Responsibility

The client acknowledges and agrees that they are personally responsible for all fees associated with late cancellations and missed appointments. Payment for these fees may be charged to the card on file or invoiced directly.

Exceptions

We understand that unforeseen circumstances may arise. In cases of medical emergencies, illness, or extenuating circumstances, clients are expected to notify the practice as soon as possible. Exceptions to this policy may be granted at the sole discretion of the therapist.

Clinical Considerations

Consistent attendance is essential to the therapeutic process. Frequent cancellations or missed appointments may impact treatment progress and may result in reassessment of the appropriateness of ongoing services.