Whether you have already scheduled your first appointment or are still considering whether counseling is right for you, many of those new to counseling and therapy have questions about what to expect and how the process works. Here you’ll find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about counseling and your counseling experience. While getting started in counseling can be intimidating, we strive to make it as comfortable as possible!
Frequently Asked Questions
General
How long does therapy last?
Due to the nature of counseling, the number of sessions cannot be predicted. Research shows that the majority of clients need a minimum of eight to twelve sessions in order to achieve a lasting benefit from counseling. In addition, research indicates that beginning with weekly sessions yields the best output. You and your counselor will work together to create an individualized treatment plan. As counselors, we are committed to not keeping anyone in therapy longer than they need to be there.
What are the different types of therapy used?
We use multiple theories based on the specifics of each individual client and whether they are family, couple, child, adolescent, or adult. This is not an exhaustive list but a few of them are:
Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) helps improve the mood, anxiety and behavior by examining confused or distorted patterns of thinking. CBT therapists teach clients that thoughts cause feelings and moods which can influence behavior. During CBT, a client learns to identify harmful thought patterns. The therapist then helps the client replace this thinking with thoughts that result in more appropriate feelings and behaviors. Research shows that CBT can be effective in treating a variety of conditions, including abuse, PTSD, depression and anxiety.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) can be used to treat older adolescents and adults who have chronic suicidal feelings/thoughts, engage in intentionally self-harmful behaviors or have Borderline Personality Disorder. DBT emphasizes taking responsibility for one’s problems and helps the person examine how they deal with conflict and intense negative emotions.
Play Therapy involves the use of toys, blocks, dolls, puppets, drawings and games to help the child recognize, identify, and verbalize feelings. The therapist observes how the child uses play materials and identifies themes or patterns to understand the child’s problems. Through a combination of talk and play the child has an opportunity to better understand and manage their conflicts, feelings, and behavior.
Group Therapy is a form of therapy where there are multiple clients and uses the power of group dynamics and peer interactions to increase understanding of social skills and other various topics. Each group is designed for a specific topic.
Do you offer parenting or couples classes?
Yes! We can bring them to your church, school, community, or social group at any time. Please contact us for more information.
What services do you provide for families and children in regards to Autism?
We have extensive experience with children and families of all abilities. Special needs families are near and dear to our hearts. As a Certified Special Education Teacher, Therapist, and Special Needs Mom, our CEO Amy Wine has years of experience and brings a unique perspective. While we work with all families, Amy is very involved in the Autism community. Beginning with diagnosis, there are extreme emotions and fears that often leave parents overwhelmed. We can help with education, social skills, resources, immediate and extended family issues, and much, much more.
Is therapy confidential?
However, there are some exceptions required by law to this rule. Exceptions include:
- Suspected child abuse, dependent adult, or elder abuse. The therapist is required to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
- If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person.
- If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to work with the individual to ensure their safety. However, if an individual does not cooperate, additional measures may need to be taken.
- Some court related issues.
- Abuse from another mental health professional
Is therapy a good choice for me?
There are many reasons why people come to therapy. Sometimes it is to deal with long-standing psychological issues, or problems with anxiety or depression.
Other times it is in response to unexpected changes in one’s life such as a divorce or work transition. Many seek the advice of counsel as they pursue their own personal exploration and growth.
Working with a therapist can help provide insight, support, and new strategies for all types of life challenges.
Therapy can help address many types of issues including depression, anxiety, conflict, grief, stress management, body-image issues and general life transitions.
Therapy is right for anyone who is interested in getting the most out of their life by taking responsibility, creating greater self-awareness and working towards change in their lives.
Do I really need therapy or can I handle it on my own?
In fact, therapy is for people who have enough self-awareness to realize they need a helping hand, and that is something to be admired. You are taking responsibility by accepting where you’re at in life and making a commitment to change the situation by seeking therapy.
Therapy provides long-lasting benefits and support, giving you the tools you need to avoid triggers, re-direct damaging patterns and overcome whatever challenges you face.
Many people also find that counselors can be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, marriage issues, and the hassles of daily life. Therapists can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution.
The benefits you obtain from therapy depend on how well you use the process and put into practice what you learn. Some of the benefits available from therapy include:
- Attaining a better understanding of yourself, your goals and values
- Developing skills for improving your relationships
- Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy
- Learning new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
- Managing anger, grief, depression, and other emotional pressures
- Improving communications and listening skills
- Changing old behavior patterns and developing new ones
- Discovering new ways to solve problems in your family or marriage
- Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence
How is therapy going to help me?
Many people also find that counselors can be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, marriage issues, and the hassles of daily life. Therapists can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution.
The benefits you obtain from therapy depend on how well you use the process and put into practice what you learn. Some of the benefits available from therapy include:
- Attaining a better understanding of yourself, your goals and values
- Developing skills for improving your relationships
- Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy
- Learning new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
- Managing anger, grief, depression, and other emotional pressures
- Improving communications and listening skills
- Changing old behavior patterns and developing new ones
- Discovering new ways to solve problems in your family or marriage
- Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence
Therapy can be short-term, focusing on a specific issue, or longer-term, addressing more complex issues or ongoing personal growth. There may be times when you are asked to take certain actions outside of the therapy sessions, such as reading a relevant book or keeping records to track certain behaviors. It is important to process what has been discussed and integrate it into your life between sessions.
For therapy to be most effective you must be an active participant, both during and between the sessions. People seeking psychotherapy are willing to take responsibility for their actions, work towards self-change and create greater awareness in their lives.
Here are some things you can expect out of therapy:
- Compassion, respect and understanding
- Perspectives to illuminate persistent patterns and negative feelings
- Real strategies for enacting positive change
- Effective and proven techniques along with practical guidance
What can I expect from therapy?
Therapy can be short-term, focusing on a specific issue, or longer-term, addressing more complex issues or ongoing personal growth. There may be times when you are asked to take certain actions outside of the therapy sessions, such as reading a relevant book or keeping records to track certain behaviors. It is important to process what has been discussed and integrate it into your life between sessions.
For therapy to be most effective you must be an active participant, both during and between the sessions. People seeking psychotherapy are willing to take responsibility for their actions, work towards self-change and create greater awareness in their lives.
Here are some things you can expect out of therapy:
- Compassion, respect and understanding
- Perspectives to illuminate persistent patterns and negative feelings
- Real strategies for enacting positive change
- Effective and proven techniques along with practical guidance
How Do I Know Which Therapist is Right for Me?
1. Information you and/or your child or children report about physical of sexual abuse of a minor or an elder person. As mandated reporters, we are, in such circumstances, obligated by Texas State Law to report this information to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS).
2. You provide information that informs us that you are in danger of harming yourself of others.
3. You sign a release to have specific information shared.
4. Information shared with your insurance company to process your claims.
HIPAA & HITECH Privacy Policy
Confidentiality
Cancellation Policy
Counselor Fees (Weekly)
30 min session $94 - $150
45 min session $140 - $225
Group Counseling (Weekly)
Varies according to group
Family Counseling (Weekly)
45 min session $140 - $225
Marriage Counseling (Weekly)
45 min session $140- $225
Marriage Intensive
Contact us for intensive fees and more information.
Our Fees
Insurance
Do You Accept Flexible or Health Care Spending Accounts?
Yes, absolutely! We are happy to accept these types of accounts.
Do You Accept Insurance?
We are considered an out-of-network provider. Please contact your insurance provider to determine what your actual cost of counseling would be. Historically, our clients have received 50-80% reimbursement from their insurance companies if they had out-of-network coverage for psychotherapy. Our services are able to be applied to your deductible. We will provide you with a detailed statement in order for you to file for reimbursement with your insurance carrier.
Do Insurance Companies Require a Diagnosis?
This is often a concern for parents. A diagnosis will have to be given to your child in order for you to be reimbursed under insurance. Individuals will also require a diagnosis.
Do Insurance Companies Cover Couples Counseling?
Most insurance companies do not cover marriage counseling, couples therapy, or premarital counseling. Please call and verify with your insurance provider, but normally they only cover psychotherapy and family psychotherapy, but not marriage or couples counseling.
Do You Provide Superbills for Insurance Reimbursement?
Yes, we can provide a superbill upon request. Superbills are processed on the first of each month.
- What are my mental health benefits?
- What is the coverage amount per therapy session?
- How many therapy sessions does my plan cover?
- How much does my insurance pay for an out-of-network provider?
- Is approval required from my primary care physician?
What Should I Ask My Insurance Company?
- What are my mental health benefits?
- What is the coverage amount per therapy session?
- How many therapy sessions does my plan cover?
- How much does my insurance pay for an out-of-network provider?
- Is approval required from my primary care physician?