1. How long does counseling usually take/last?

A: Because everyone is different, and each situation is different, the amount of time spent in
counseling is determined by the individual. Our staff will use its experience to advise you of your
progress and help you to determine when you are ready to step out on your own.

2. What type of education do your counselors have?

A: Each of our staff members have post-graduate degrees from accredited universities and have
been licensed by the State of Tennessee as professional counselors. They have spent a minimum
of two years post- graduate supervised practice before being licensed as a professional counselor.
Each of our therapists maintains the state requirement for obtaining a set number of continuing
education hours each year. By obtaining these additional education hours, we are able to
continually increase our knowledge base by staying on top of the latest techniques and research in
the field which is always a benefit for the clients.

3. Will I need medication?

A: Because our staff is qualified to diagnose and treat all forms of mental illness, you are assured
that the recommendation and referral for medical evaluation will be made by a professional. A
referral for a medical evaluation may be given for the purpose of identifying the need for medication
or to rule out any possible medical conditions which may be leading to/affecting your current need
for therapy. Each of our staff members has a good working relationship with local physicians to
ensure continuity of care.
Not everyone who comes to counseling needs medication.

4. What about emergencies?

A: Your counselor will discuss their individual policy for after-hour emergencies. As a general rule,
you should always be able to contact your counselor should you experience an emergency.
In addition to having the contact number for your counselor, other numbers which may be helpful to
you in the state of a crisis are below.

TN Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-TALK(8255)
Crisis Line (for crisis involving children & adolescents): 1-866-791-9222
Adult Crisis Line: 1-800-681-7444

5. What is the cost of counseling?

A: The cost for counseling will vary by therapist but generally run within a set range. The cost is
often dependent on scheduling (day versus evening sessions), type of session (initial intake versus
monthly regularly scheduled sessions), and specialized services being provided. Some therapists do
offer a sliding fee scale for those in need of help but do not have the funds to pay for therapy. This
reduced fee is based on level of income. Upon inquiring about starting up therapy sessions, discuss
with the counselor their rate for hourly counseling sessions.

6. Do you accept health insurance?

A: Whether or not your counselor accepts health insurance may vary. Not all counselors accept
insurance and some may not accept your type of insurance. Many counselors prefer to receive
payment at the time of service but are ok with clients submitting a claim on their own to their
insurance carrier for reimbursement where applicable. Some clients prefer to not file counseling
sessions on their insurance for personal reasons which are acceptable as well. This too is an area
to discuss when calling to inquire about starting up counseling.

7. What is Faith-based counseling?

A: Faith-based counseling is a holistic approach to counseling that incorporates a spiritual belief
system.