FAQ
Helpful Information
What is counseling or therapy?
Counseling can be different things for different people. Our belief is that counseling provides support to people making changes in their thoughts and feelings, as well as in behaviors. There are many ways to provide counseling and no one way is better than another. Every counselor has a different approach, and every client needs different things from their counseling experience. Therefore, your treatment will be developed as a plan by you and your counselor, tailored to address your identified areas of need. This treatment plan will be the road map to follow in working through your concerns with a goal of positive changes, and ultimately, discharge.
Counseling is not always easy. Making significant changes in your life requires hard work. This work can often start in the counseling office, but the majority of the “change” will occur when you are done with your sessions and living your daily life. It is important that you are honest with yourself and your counselor during your sessions if you hope to make progress toward goals when you are not in the office.
Can I make an appointment if I am under 18 years of age?
We do not see clients under 18 without the consent of a parent. We do, however, consider each individual case prior to making such decisions. Please contact us and speak to one of our staff.
How much does therapy cost?
Our fees are listed HERE. If you have any questions please contact us.
Does TC take insurance?
We currently take a number of insurances, please contact us to find out if we take yours.
Why do some people prefer to pay out of pocket for therapy?
It is very important that individuals are aware that insurance companies will only pay for sessions if the client/s has a diagnosis. People who choose to pay out of pocket instead of using their insurance do so based on personal preference. Oftentimes, this is a decision made by individuals who are only experiencing short-term difficulties or whose counselor is not able to determine an actual diagnosis. Anyone deciding to pay out of pocket has all rights to do so. Please contact us with any questions. We will work be happy to assist you in making the best decision for you and/or your family.
What if I have to pay out of pocket but can’t afford the fee?
If you would like to receive counseling and have to pay out of pocket, but you are concerned about fees, please contact us. We pride ourselves in assisting individuals and families in getting the help they need regardless of their financial situation. Take some time and speak to one of our staff members who will be able to assist you in determining your eligibility.
Can you prescribe prescription medication?
No, we do not prescribe medication. We can, however, refer you to another professional who does.
How do I begin the process?
To begin the process, all you have to do is contact us! We look forward to hearing from you!
Do I need authorization from my primary care physician?
No, you do not need authorization from your primary care physician.
Do you provide any nontraditional services?
Yes, we do! Upon the approval of you and your counselor, you can receive services via a secure, HIPAA-approved video platform. Once you’ve met with your counselor be sure to ask how this works and if it is right for you.
What are nontraditional services?
Nontraditional services can mean a lot of things for different organizations. For TC, nontraditional services include individual, couples, family, and group counseling via video chat. We also provide other services that play a role in supporting the mental and emotional health of individuals, some of these options include fitness programs, mindfulness and meditation, and aromatherapy. To learn more about these options please contact us.
What happens after I make an appointment?
After you schedule an appointment, you and/or your family member/s will come into the office (or login online) and meet your new counselor. The first session may be approximately 60-90 minutes. At this time, your counselor will work to learn more about your concerns and how they can assist you and/or your family. You and/or your family member/s will also get to feel out the counselor which will help you determine whether or not the counselor is a good fit for you and/or your family. After the initial visit, if you’d like to move forward, you will schedule your next appointment. The following appointments are generally one (1) time per week for approximately 45-50 minutes each session. You and/or your family member/s will work with the counselor to develop a plan of action that will be used to help you reach your goals. The duration of service will be determined after you meet with the counselor.
Who will you share my information with?
We make every effort to uphold a high standard of confidentiality with regard to client’s rights and their records of treatment. Clients’ records are protected under the Federal and State Confidentiality regulations. The agency may not disclose to any person outside the agency that a client is or has been seen for services, or disclose any identifying information unless:
***Our client is paying for services with insurance which means that we will have to share information with the insurance company
***Our client is at risk of harming him/herself or someone else
***We receive written consent from our client
***We receive a court order
***Our client is faced with a medical emergency and information is needed by medical personal
***If our client is suspected of any involvement in child/elderly abuse or neglect
What happens if I miss an appointment?
Tomaro's C.H.A.N.G.E. will make every effort to accommodate personal circumstances with adequate notice. However, please be respectful of your counselor and of the other individuals, couples, and families who may want an appointment by arriving on time for your appointment or giving advanced notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment.
In the event that you cannot attend your scheduled appointment, you should call your counselor to cancel or reschedule at least 24 hours in advance. If you cannot reach your counselor, you should leave a message on their voicemail or communicate your cancellation via email or text (if mutually agreed upon with your counselor). If you do not cancel 24 hours in advance you may be charged a fee. If you cancel less than six (6) hours before your appointment, you may be charged 50% of your session fee as a ‘late cancellation fee’. If you miss your appointment without calling ahead (no show) then you will be charged 75% of your session’s fee as a ‘no show fee’.
What types of payment do you accept?
TC accepts all most credit cards and debit cards. We accept cash. We do accept checks but only after a client has been with us for at least 12 sessions. Ask about other forms of payment that may not be listed. For those who pay with checks, there will be a $30 fee for all returned checks.