Question 1

How does counseling work?

Accepted Answer

Each person comes to counseling with their own issues and goals.  Typically, you will meet with your counselor weekly or bi-weekly for 50-55 minutes.  We will work together to create client-centered goals that you will work towards.  I tailor my therapeutic approach to your goals and specific needs. During our time together, we will discuss skills for you to practice and implement in between sessions.

Question 2

What is online counseling?

Accepted Answer

Online counseling, or telehealth, is counseling that lets you and your counselor talk through your issues and goals while you're online and in the comfort of your own home (or other location).  I use a HIPAA-compliant platform to ensure confidentiality.  I ask that you are located in an environment free from distractions and where you can have confidentiality to discuss what we are working together on in counseling. 
If you are having difficulty scheduling time to get to an office to visit your counselor or you are looking for a counselor with specific experience, online counseling may be a good solution.

Question 3

What is a consultation call?

Accepted Answer

A consultation is a free 10–15-minute phone call where we will discuss what you are looking for in counseling.  I will ask some basic questions and you can ask whatever questions you have.  We will discuss insurance and scheduling in this call.

Question 4

What will my first session be like?

Accepted Answer

After scheduling your first session, I will send you intake paperwork to complete through a HIPAA-compliant portal. You will receive login information and be able to create an account. The intake paperwork needs to be completed before we begin the first session.  
During the intake session, we will discuss practice policies, what the counseling relationship and process look like, and go over any questions you have.  I will do a full assessment and gather some background information, your goals, strengths, and what is bringing you to therapy.  We will begin forming a plan and if time permits, setting some specific targets to work towards that helps you feel you are living more fully.  At the end of the session, we will schedule your next appointment and talk through anything that you may start to work on before the next session.

Question 5

How long will it take?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, this is difficult to predict. Everyone’s circumstances are unique, and the time needed depends on several factors. Some of these factors include what you are aiming to achieve, how motivated and committed you are to working towards those goals, and what factors or conflicts brought you to counseling.  Some people only need a couple of sessions to begin to feel better.  Others may have deeper issues or need more growth and may need to attend much longer.  In our first couple of sessions, we will discuss target dates for reaching goals and then re-evaluate periodically to make sure there is progress and growth.

Question 6

I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?

Accepted Answer

Your participation helps determine how much you get out of therapy.  Also, we will work together to set goals and to process the struggles you have, but the hard work happens between sessions.  If you are committed to putting in the time and the work, you will get more out of therapy.

Question 7

Do you work with children?

Accepted Answer

Currently, I am not accepting any new adolescents or teens.

Question 8

What types of insurance do you take?

Accepted Answer

In all states except Idaho, I can take: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, Aetna, Providence Health Plan, Oxford, United Healthcare, Oscar Health, UMR, Meritain, Surest, Trustmark, Allegiance and Optum.In Idaho, I am private pay only.

Question 9

What are your self-pay rates?

Accepted Answer

Intake/Initial Session $165

Regular Session (50-55 min) $150

Question 10

What are your supervision rates?

Accepted Answer

Please email Lauren at lauren@arrowcounselingtx.com for more information.

Question 11

What is your no show/late cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

If you are unable to make a session, please cancel or reschedule at least 24 hours in advance; otherwise, you will be charged $50.  Insurance does not cover the late cancellation/no-show fee. I hold your appointment time especially for you, and it is important to let me know when you cannot make a session. Please message me at your earliest convenience if you cannot make an appointment.

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