What types of problems do people typically come to counseling services with?
It is a common misconception to think that only seriously ill or "crazy" people need counseling help. Most people have a problem with anxiety, depression, stress, relationships, etc., at some point. Individuals come to counseling with a range of problems. Many have issues related to their normal development such as identity or relationship issues. Others are dealing with more specific psychological issues such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, bereavement, substance abuse, or eating and body image issues. Some individuals are not sure what the problem is but just know they are not functioning or feeling the way they normally do.
Who is Wendi?
Wendi is our automated system to help us gather more information including your contact information and insurance eligibility.
Don’t worry! She will not share your secrets with anybody other than us.
To talk to Wendi, you can find her on the bottom right side of your screen by clicking the chat icon.
What happens in counseling?
You will meet with your counselor regularly for about 45-50 minutes.
You will discuss your concerns and often provide some historical information.
Counseling is a collaborative effort between the counselor and client.
Professional counselors help clients identify goals and potential solutions to problems which cause emotional turmoil; seek to improve communication and coping skills; strengthen self-esteem; and promote behavior change and optimal mental health.
You learn effective ways to deal with your problems by building upon personal strengths and learning ways to encourage personal growth and foster your interest and welfare.
Will my insurance cover counseling?
Many insurance and coverage plans cover mental health services by a licensed professional counselor or licensed social worker.
Wendi can help! Click on the chat icon on the bottom right of your screen and Wendi can verify your insurance eligibility.
Call your insurance company and ask about your mental health coverage options. They can inform you of your benefits.
Or call us today to talk about your options and to find out if we accept your insurance.
Initial evaluation: $125 on average.
Individual counseling sessions: $100
Bariatric evaluation: $200
Group sessions: Free - $30 per session
*Costs can vary depending on type/length of visit.
How much does out-of-pocket counseling cost?
As a client, you are guaranteed the protection of confidentiality within the boundaries of the client/counselor relationship.
Any disclosure will be made with your full written, informed consent and will be limited to a specific period of time.
The law in the State of Maryland provides the following exceptions to confidentiality, but even in these circumstances you will be informed before confidential information is revealed whenever possible:
If the counselor has knowledge of abuse of a child, elder, or a person with a disability.
If the counselor has knowledge of intent to harm himself/herself or others.
If the counselor receives a court order to the contrary
All members of the American Psychiatric Association (APA) subscribe to the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice which require counselors to protect the confidentiality of their communications with clients.
Is everything I say confidential?
We follow the state and national guidelines for retaining confidential records.
All such records are required to be kept on file for seven years after your last session.
If you are a minor, your records will be kept for seven years after you reach the age of 18. After that seven years, your records will be destroyed.
How long will you keep my records on file?
Consulting your doctor for a check-up before beginning counseling to make sure your condition is not due to or made worse by a physical disorder can be a good step.
Many illnesses can affect mood, concentration and so forth.
Some conditions (e.g., depression or severe anxiety) often require treatment with medication.
The therapist should refer you to a psychiatrist for a medication consultation, if your condition warrants.
Should I consult my physician first before being seen?
Give therapy a chance. Consider the first couple of months as a trial period. It usually takes at least that long to experience progress, depending on your problems and issues.
Progress is usually inhibited by changing from one counselor to another frequently.
In considering when to discontinue treatment, ask yourself whether the problems that caused you to seek counseling have been resolved and whether any additional problems or issues have come to your attention that you may wish to resolve.
Also consider the advice of your counselor. A frank discussion of the advisability of terminating treatment is usually useful.
Remember that no decision about counseling or psychotherapy is irrevocable. While you may seek advice from others, decisions to begin and end treatment and the choice of counselor are yours alone.
