faq
WHERE IS YOUR OFFICE LOCATED?
HOW LONG ARE THE SESSIONS?
60 Minutes – typically. Some services are longer.
WHAT ARE YOUR OFFICE HOURS?
Monday through Friday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. This includes both in-person sessions and telehealth sessions (working via video over HIPAA compliant programs). You can book your appointments online.
DO I NEED TO FILL OUT SOME FORMS BEFORE MY FIRST SESSION?
After your FREE initial phone consultation, we’ll give you directions for completing the necessary forms online. You’ll sign in to the practice software, register your ID and charge card, and can set up appointments.
WHAT METHODS OF PAYMENTS DO YOU TAKE?
We only accept payments by debit or credit cards which are processed through our HIPAA compliant software program. This program protects your confidentiality unlike checks going through banks, and protects us by having no cash in the office.
WHAT IS YOUR CANCELLATION POLICY?
Changes or cancellations should be made prior to 48 hours of the scheduled appointment to avoid being charged the full session fees.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A COACH AND A COUNSELOR OR THERAPIST?
A psychotherapist, also known as a counselor or therapist, is a licensed and has a Master-level graduate (at least) of a school, granting degrees in a psychological education. The education qualifies that person to sit for a state examination for licensure as a Professional Counselor, a Marriage and Family Therapist, or a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, which is generally considered the broadest license. Most government programs require a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), or a doctorate in Psychology for reimbursement of government insurance for mental health therapy, for instance.
Coaches typically have a degree and experience in working within organizations in areas such as human resources, management, sales, to be prepared for feedback/advice etc., but no license is required. Coaching can be in business or personal goals, where the past is not as important as getting on the right track NOW. Some therapists are also coaches.
WHAT IF I NEED MEDICATION?
We would be glad to make a referral to a psychiatrist, or other physician, especially if we believe that will assist you in recovery. The decision to take medication is strictly yours.
Science has proven that when suffering from depression, taking medication in addition to talk therapy brings faster improvement over medication alone or talk therapy alone. The combination of medication and talk therapy causes the entire brain to work rather than parts.
DO YOU WORK WITH CHILDREN?
Yes. When working with children, we prefer they be old enough to carry on a conversation. We typically use Play Therapy for children 5 years old to 12 years old. Children tell us about their problems and issues through their play. After all, Play is the language of children. As the kids approach their teen years, their maturity would likely lead to regular talk therapy rather than play therapy.
WHAT IS VIDEO THERAPY OR TELEHEALTH OR TELETHERAPY?
Using video or telehealth for talk therapy is the same as being in an office with a therapist face to face, except Telehealth therapy is handled over the internet face to face.
Studies have proven the outcome is as effective whether using in-person therapy or telehealth therapy. Many find Telehealth more convenient than in-person therapy. Think of traveling, where you could keep your therapy appointment; think of those with disabling illness, who won’t need to leave home for therapy. There is also the busy executive who can have therapy in the privacy of their office.
WHERE DID YOU RECEIVE YOUR EDUCATION AND TRAINING?
Our Clinical Director received both her Bachelor of Science in Social Work and Master of Clinical Social Work degrees from Florida State University. After graduation and licensure, she has attended more than 1000 hours of continuing education over the last 20 years. This training has covered all aspects of mental health for adults, teens, and children.
All other personnel, therapists, coaches, have appropriate experience and education for their specialties. For more information about the experience of our Clinical Director, see our “About” page.
WHAT’S NEEDED FOR TELEHEALTH THERAPY?
A desktop computer with a webcam and speakers or a laptop or tablet with built-in webcam and speakers with a good internet speed. You can also use your smartphone!
If you can stream movies over your internet without problems, you’ll be able to participate in telehealth therapy. For more Q&A on Telehealth, see the Special Resources page.
DO YOU WORK WITH BOTH MEN AND WOMEN OF ALL RACES?
Yes. We work with men, women, and people of all races. We also welcome clients of the LGBTQ+ community.
ARE YOU GOING TO PUSH RELIGION DOWN MY THROAT?
No, of course not. We never bring up religion in sessions. Should a client choose to bring up their religion, we’ll be supportive and discuss anything with them they wish, but we would NEVER force our personal views on anyone.
WHO IS YOUR FAVORITE HISTORICAL NATIVE AMERICAN?
Chief Osceola, of course!