Question 1

How do I choose a therapist?

Accepted Answer

Choosing a therapist is an important and personal choice.  First, you should seek a mental health professional that is credentialed and licensed by the State.  After that, it’s important to choose a therapist that you feel comfortable with, listens to you without judgment, and with whom you connect. Another factor in choosing a therapist is matching their approach and experience to your needs and concerns. One way to see if our therapist may be a good match for you, the ACCWF booking site allows you to schedule a face-to-face consultation with your therapist at no charge.

Question 2

How does therapy work?

Accepted Answer

Psychotherapy is a collaborative treatment based on the relationship between an individual and their therapist. Based in conversation, it provides a supportive environment that allows you to talk openly with someone who’s warm, trusting, and nonjudgmental. Change takes place experientially within the relationship itself and through specific evidence-based treatment and interventions. Therapists can help you gain insight into and learn tools and skills to manage the distress you are experiencing.

Question 3

What is an Evidence-based treatment?

Accepted Answer

Evidence-based treatments (or EBTs) are types of therapeutic interventions that have been proven through research and clinical trials to be effective in reducing distress and improving emotional and behavioral health for specific populations. For example, scientific evidence has been demonstrated the effectiveness of IPT and CBT therapies for individuals experiencing Perinatal Mood Disorders.

Question 4

Is therapy confidential?

Accepted Answer

Yes, counselors are legally and ethically mandated to maintain confidentiality and are generally prohibited from disclosing confidential communications to any third party, unless mandated or permitted by law to do so. There are a few exceptions to confidentiality that involve the risk of harm to self or others, duty to protect, and a few other specific situations that will be explained in the initial counseling session.

Question 5

What is an Integrative approach to psychotherapy and what are its advantages?

Accepted Answer

One size does not fit all for emotional and behavioral concerns.  An integrative approach allows for the adaptation of therapy to match the characteristics, needs, and presenting concerns for each individual. A therapist uses their knowledge of evidence-based treatment approaches to integrate the most effective treatment.

Question 6

What should I expect after I click to book an appointment?

Accepted Answer

After booking an appointment, you will receive a confirmation email with attachments to complete before your first session. This allows paperwork to be completed in the privacy of your own home before the initial session and doesn’t take up time in your first counseling session. A booking link will be sent to you for easy access to online telehealth therapy (HIPAA approved, secure platform)

Question 7

Is psychotherapy covered by insurance?  How do I pay?

Accepted Answer

Yes, most insurances cover psychotherapy, but you should check with your individual carrier to ensure that psychotherapy is covered.  If you have questions about your individual plan, our billing specialist may be able to answer those questions for you.

Question 8

Is telehealth covered by insurance?

Accepted Answer

Yes, most insurances reimburse for telehealth or telemental health services. Telehealth was already becoming a popular option for individual therapy when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Most insurances have allowed for emergency access to online counseling and have waived some of the restrictions. Telehealth will remain after COVID-19 restrictions are removed with only small changes in coverage requirements. Self-pay is an option for those who prefer or currently do not have insurance. You can easily and securely keep your payment method on file for co-pays or self-pay through the practice site.

Question 9

What are the advantages of telehealth?

Accepted Answer

Many prefer telehealth for its ease, convenience, and privacy. This can be especially convenient with newborns.  No special downloads or apps are necessary, and sessions can be conducted via your PC, laptop, or smartphone. Telehealth is provided through secure, HIPAA compliant links directly through our booking website.

Question 10

Is telehealth effective?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the scientific evidence is finding that telehealth therapy is just as effective as in-person.

Question 11

What if I prefer in-person?

Accepted Answer

Currently all services are virtual with the office opening up late spring/summer 2022. Some people prefer the convenience of choosing virtual or in-person or a combination of the two types.

Question 12

How long does therapy take?

Accepted Answer

Sessions are typically scheduled for 50 minutes, and most people see their therapist once a week initially. The length of time that an individual chooses to remain in therapy varies widely based on their specific needs and preferences. This can be discussed with your therapist in more detail in your first session.

Question 13

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

Therapy tends to be most helpful to people who view their appointments as an important and valuable component of their lives.  We at the ACCWF certainly understand that life happens, and things come up, however, improvement in therapy depends on consistency. We require a 24-hour cancellation notice.   Cancellations can be made by email to billing@austinccwf.com or by phone.

Cancellations with 24-hour notice can allow for others to be scheduled in that time slot. Unfortunately, same-day cancellations often cannot be rescheduled leaving gaps in counselor schedules. Same-day cancellations and no-shows for appointments will be charged a cancellation fee of $50. As a courtesy, ACCWF offers a one-time “free” cancellation.

Question 14

What does LPCC-S mean as a therapist’s credentials?

Accepted Answer

The Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor – Supervisor is the highest level of counseling licensure available in the State of Ohio. The LPCC-S has met all the requirements for independent licensure with additional training in clinical supervision while maintaining yearly continuing education requirements. In addition, the Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision recognizes advanced doctoral training beyond the licensure requirements in the areas of counselor education, supervision, counseling practice, and research.

Frequently asked questions