Frequently Asked Questions About Therapy at Affinity Counseling
We understand that starting therapy can bring up many questions. Here you’ll find answers to common questions about our services, approach, and practical matters. If you don’t see your question answered here, please don’t hesitate to contact us directly.
About Therapy
Q: What is therapy and how does it help?
A: Therapy (also called counseling or psychotherapy) is a collaborative process where you work with a trained mental health professional to address challenges, develop coping skills, and improve your overall well-being. At Affinity Counseling Connections, we use evidence-based approaches to help you gain insights, develop practical strategies, and create meaningful change in your life.
Therapy can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, trauma, and specific challenges faced by teens, women, and individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. The benefits often include improved emotional regulation, better relationships, enhanced coping skills, greater self-awareness, and a stronger sense of purpose and direction.
Q: What can I expect in my first therapy session?
A: Your first session is primarily about getting to know each other and establishing goals for therapy. We’ll discuss what brought you to therapy, relevant background information, and what you hope to achieve. You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions about the therapeutic process and express any concerns you might have.
This initial session helps us develop a preliminary understanding of your needs and begin formulating a treatment approach tailored to your specific situation. Remember, you’re in control of what you share and the pace at which therapy progresses. Our goal is to create a comfortable, supportive environment where you feel safe exploring your thoughts and feelings.
Practical Matters
Q: How much does therapy cost?
A: Our standard session fee is $120 for a 50-minute session, which is below the average market rate for therapy in Texas. We also offer sliding scale options ranging from $85-$100 for those who qualify, as we’re committed to making quality mental healthcare accessible.
If you’re interested in our sliding scale options, please email us at info@affinitycounselingconnections.com to inquire about availability. We’re transparent about our pricing and will discuss all financial aspects before your first session.
Q: Do you accept insurance?
A: We currently do not accept insurance directly. However, if you have a PPO insurance plan, we can provide you with a “superbill” receipt that you can submit to your insurance company for potential reimbursement. Many PPO plans will reimburse 60-80% of out-of-network therapy costs after you meet your deductible.
We recommend contacting your insurance provider directly to ask about their coverage for out-of-network mental health services. Questions to ask include: Do I have out-of-network benefits for mental health? What is my deductible and has it been met? What percentage of the cost will be reimbursed after my deductible is met?
Q: How do telehealth sessions work?
A: All our therapy services are provided via secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform. Ten minutes before your scheduled appointment, you’ll receive an email with a link to join your session. Simply click the link to connect with your therapist at the appointed time. The platform works on computers, tablets, and smartphones.
For the best experience, we recommend finding a quiet, private space with a stable internet connection. Headphones can help with privacy and audio quality. If you experience any technical difficulties, we’re here to help troubleshoot or reschedule if necessary.
Q: What is your cancellation policy?
A: We require 48 hours’ notice for cancellations or rescheduling. Appointments cancelled with less than 48 hours’ notice are subject to the full session fee ($120). We understand that emergencies happen, and we’re willing to discuss extenuating circumstances on a case-by-case basis.
This policy helps us maintain a reliable schedule and ensure availability for all clients who need our services. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.