FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT IS COUNSELING?
Counseling is a collaborative process that involves the development of a confidential, therapeutic, helping relationship. In this relationship, the therapist acts as a facilitator in helping the client more accurately understand themselves in relation to their environment, foster increased mindfulness surrounding their feelings and behaviors, and assist in navigating interpersonal relationships.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN COUNSELING AND CONSULTATION?
Counselors focus their work on identifying and reducing symptoms, building healthy coping skills, and improving overall functioning. Counseling seeks to assess, diagnose, and treat disorders associated with mental health, and therefore, requires its practitioners to hold an advanced degree and valid state license.
Consultation is used to assess both individual and collective needs, while problem solving effective solutions in the form of organization, time-management, and communication. As a result, consultation or "coaching" is used in many settings and with a variety of clients who require a less clinical approach to support and accountability.
ARE MY COUNSELING SESSIONS CONFIDENTIAL?
Yes. Any information associated with the counseling relationship is confidential and follows the professional, legal, and ethical guidelines of the American Psychological Association and State Counseling Boards of Texas and Arizona. All counseling sessions follow confidentiality and privacy standards established by HIPAA.
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No information may be shared outside of the counseling relationship without expressed written permission by the client. Exceptions to confidentiality occur when there is the possibility of harm to the client or another person, or in cases of child/elder abuse.
WHAT ABOUT CONSULTATION SESSIONS?
Consultation does not require the exchange of protected health information and therefore does not need to maintain the same privacy and confidentiality standards that counseling does.
Consultation is tailored to the individual client or business's wants and needs, and therefore may occur in a variety of settings. Every effort is taken to maintain privacy and professionalism during these sessions, but if you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to bring them up during your initial consultation.
HOW OFTEN WILL I MEET WITH MY COUNSELOR OR CONSULTANT?
The frequency of sessions is mutually agreed upon by you and your counselor or consultant. It is largely based on presenting problems, overall goals, and client engagement.
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It is very important that you are on time for your scheduled appointments. Consistent and timely attendance has been shown to increase the achievement of therapeutic outcomes and goals. If for some reason you are unable to meet for your scheduled session, please cancel your session online or email your provider at least 24-hours in advance.
WHEN WILL I START TO FEEL BETTER OR NOTICE CHANGE?
Many problems can be dealt with in a brief period of time, but this is not always the case. There is no magic number or formula to determine how many sessions it may take. Relief may come from a variety of sources, including making changes in your thoughts, behaviors, relationships, and choices, and may take time.
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During your initial session, you and your provider will determine the frequency of sessions and establish a reasonable timeline for working towards your goals. You and your provider will speak regularly about your progress, but it is also important to share any changes or concerns as they come up, so that appropriate adjustments can be made.