Questions and Answers

What is counseling?

Counseling, most simply stated, is an interaction between a person who is "stuck" in some way and in need of help, and another person who is trained in helping people get "unstuck." Reasons for coming are many, and the counseling strategies employed also vary from counselor to counselor. One constant is that the counselor focuses all energies on trying to help the student. If you feel uncertain about whether counseling is for you, we encourage you to make an initial appointment and discuss any reservations you might have with one of our counselors. There is no obligation to continue.

Don't only "crazy people" seek counseling?

No way. Counseling at our Center involves the concerns and problems of normal people just like you. People seek therapy for a variety of reasons. Whether it's learning how to better manage your emotions, recovering from trauma, feeling overwhelmed juggling the responsibilities of parenting and work, achieving a sense of mastery and self-confidence, gaining new meaning and understanding in your life, building new relationship skills, or taking the proverbial "look in the mirror", therapy has the potential to provide numerous benefits.

How do I make an appointment?

You can schedule an appointment to meet with a Psychologist/counselor by calling (409) 899-3244 and talking with our support staff. Initial appointments last about 45-60 minutes. During the appointment you will discuss your current issue with a counselor who will then make a recommendation for assistance. Subsequent appointments typically last approximately 45-50 minutes.

What are your fees for services and do you accept Medicaid/Medicare or Insurance?

Our therapists and psychologists have different fees, depending on experience and level of licensure. Medicaid and Medicare are accepted by most of our therapists and psychologists. In addition, some of our clinicians are in-the-network for BlueCross BlueShield. We accept cash, check or credit card payments for all of our services. Please call for more specific details about fees for services.

Why should I tell a stranger things that I haven't been able to discuss with people closest to me?

The fact that a counselor is not a friend or a family member actually makes it easier for him or her to help you. Unlike friends or family members whose advice is often colored by biases and preconceptions, counselors work to be non-judgmental, objective helpers. Your counselor will be working to understand you, your situation, and your goals.

But isn't it going to be hard for me to talk about what's bothering me with a person I don't even know?

Maybe, especially in the beginning. You may feel anxious or shy, perhaps even a bit self-conscious or weak. Counselors understand that it's normal to feel uncomfortable and cautious during the first meeting, and they try to help by promoting an accepting environment in which you will feel at ease. As you gradually begin to trust your counselor, you'll probably find that you can be more relaxed and open.

But what if I cry or get angry as I talk about my problems?

It's okay to feel and express intense emotions in counseling; in fact, doing so is often one of the most helpful parts of the process. Your counselor's office is a safe place to talk about how you are feeling. And paying close attention to these feelings can also teach you a lot about yourself.

Who will know what I talk about in my counseling sessions?

Without your consent, no one. Everything you say in counseling is confidential, unless your counselor is required, by law, to break confidentiality to protect you or somebody else from harm or a parent of a child seventeen or younger requests information regarding their child’s therapy. If you have questions about confidentiality or its limits, your counselor will be able to answer them.

What will I get out of coming to counseling?

Making the decision to get help is often the most difficult part of the process. Our culture gives many of us the impression that we should be able to handle everything in our life on our own, but that is an illusion that can cost us a great deal. The potential benefits of counseling can be invaluable: to be truly understood, to experience trust and openness with someone, and to learn how to counsel yourself. Seeing a counselor won't make all of your problems magically disappear. But, if you have the desire to understand yourself and to change, then you've taken a powerful step towards that goal.