Frequenty Asked Questions
Seeking help can be challenging, anxiety provoking, and confusing. Many questions might come to mind when considering entering therapy. Below are questions that we frequently receive from individuals regarding counseling services. If you have any further questions regarding therapy, please feel free to contact us directly by email and/or phone.
What is counseling?
Counseling is the process of collaboratively exploring the complex issues that are causing an individual distress as well as working with that individual to find solutions, coping techniques and insight to counter those issues.
How might counseling help me?
Counseling can be helpful in that the counselor represents an outlet as well as an objective mediator by which an individual can sort through complex emotions and problems within their life. Together with the counselor, an individual might develop insight and find solutions to their respective problems.
Can you guarantee that you will help me?
We cannot guarantee that we will help you as that would be unethical. We cannot say for sure as you are an important factor in the process of change. Change cannot happen without you. What we can guarantee is that it is our intent to help you and we will try our best to do so.
How long are counseling sessions?
Our counseling sessions typically last 45 minutes to an hour.
Are your services confidential?
Yes our services are confidential, although there are some exceptions to this confidentiality in cases where your safety, or the safety of others, are suspected of being in danger. The limits of confidentiality are always discussed in detail before embarking on the counseling process.
Do you prescribe medication?
We do not prescribe medication as only a psychiatrist is qualified to do so. We do not have a psychiatrist on staff, although we would be happy to refer to one if it is deemed necessary.
What are your payment options?
Next Step Counseling accepts payment through most major health care insurance providers. Additionally, fees for our services are determined by an income based sliding scale.