How do I choose a therapist?

There are several things to consider when choosing a therapist.  Obviously, the first one is ensuring they are credentialed for your particular needs.  You should consider your goals and if the therapist has the skills to match these plans.  Your financials and insurance are also considerations.  To find a therapist you could seek referrals from friends, family, church or primary care manager.  Your insurance company may also have a list of therapists who take their insurance. Our admin can help you find a counselor that fits your needs for online, in person, faith integrated and more. Share with your administrative assistant to help determine the best fit for your situation. 

Therapists have different styles but typically you can expect during your first session that your therapists will ask a lot of questions concerning your physical and emotional history, family history as well as therapy goals and history. You are welcome to also share with them what works for you, what doesnt, how they can support you, and if past treatment styles didnt work.​

How do I know if my therapist is right for me?

It is important that your therapist have the skills that have been known to help with your therapy goals and concerns but most importantly it should be a space where you feel seen, heard and respected.  Our adminstrative assistant looks at what your needs are for counseling and pairs you with a counselor who fits what you are looking for. You can also take a look at our counselors and also tell them who you want to be scheduled with.

What are the benefits of therapy

Therapy can help you to process past hurts and wounds, identify behaviors that can be self limiting and help change them, and assist you in defining and reaching personal goals. 

What do therapists do with the information they learn about me

Information discussed in therapy is regulated by HIPAA laws and is confidential.  Under some circumstances, such as abuse if you are a minor, your therapists may be required by law to report these things to the appropriate authorities.  Also, if you are using insurance certain details of your appointments may have to be shared to ensure your therapist will be paid appropriately by them.  

Your sessions are private. We do not utilize AI to record your sessions, so that you are truly experiencing a private session. If you are seeing a student who needs to record a session, You have the right to agree to being recorded or decline, either way they will respect your decision. If you wish to help them in that learning process and don't mind being recorded, you can let them know that too. Videos are only used to help a student learn how to improve their counseling skills. Once their assignment is turned in, the video will be deleted from their device. 

I've never been to therapy, what is it like?

Clients often describe therapy as a safe place to talk to a professional about life's challenges and learning the skills to overcome them. Some days may be heavier than others, and some may be just needing a safe and secure place to hold your experiences while you learn to navigate them. Therapy is individualized for each client. Depending on your needs It could be brief therapy of 3-6 months or for more complex issues it could be 1-2 years. It really is up to you, your needs, and what treatment plan you discuss with your individual therapist. ​

What is the first session like?

Your first session is a diagnostic interview that feels like a conversation about your personal history, symptoms and experiences. The counselor will have clarifying questions to ask and gather as much info they can to help you identify goals and a diagnosis so that your insurance can cover it. This will be with your counselor to engage in conversation around what is bringing you into therapy, your symptoms, history and a background on different areas of your life. This is not how each session will be as you move forward but really aids us in identifying the problem area, and work with you in developing your individualized treatment.

Can't I take a pill to deal with anxiety and depression? Won't that fix everything

While medication can be an amazing tool we utilize while processing the deeper root issues that lead to your anxiety, depression or other issues, it is not a quick fix and often takes 4-6 weeks to take effect. Some issues may not even warrant the need of medication and may be able to find healing or ways to recover without the use of medication. It is important to discuss a plan with your counselor so you have expert advice in your corner to help you navigate who you need to see.

Can't I just talk to my family or friends about this?

Of course you can talk to trusted family and friends about what is going on, but many find family and friends are not fully equipped when someone they love is facing a mental illness. Sometimes we need professional support when we get stuck.

What if I go on vacation? Can I pause sessions or Can I see the counselor virtually?

Vacations are always recommended for anyone. We like them too! You do not have to see a counselor during a regularly scheduled vacation and we will also pause when we take our vacations as a therapist. If you wish to see your counselor while you are on vacation, that is fine, however we have to follow state laws around this. If you are traveling within the state of Texas we can continue to see you otherwise we will have to check the state or country you are going to if it allows for cross state lines therapy. It is best to assume you will not see us while you are on vacation. We want you to enjoy your time off. If it is a life or death crisis situation we are allowed to make the exception, but in most cases, we will pause.

How much does therapy cost?

Therapy/Counseling is an investment in your mental wellness and health. Cost will depend on if you are self pay, paying via insurance or if you meet our sliding scale criteria. If using your insurance benefits, you can always call your member services number on the back of your card to find out what your cost will be in advance.

Can I just see a counselor virtually?

Absolutely! Virtual appointments work just like in person. We do ask you see your counselor from a private space so that you are not distracted with other tasks and have privacy to discuss the issues you are facing. Please be sure to be stationary (not driving a vehicle) as this does not allow your full attention on therapy or driving and can put you at risk.