Many of us postpone seeking outside help until we feel no other recourse.  Some of us fear that it is a sign of weakness.  Therapy is anything but that!

Exploring our problems through talking to a trained professional is the courageous first step towards personal empowerment and emotional and personal growth.  With counseling, we can achieve a greater understanding of ourselves, how to deal with others more effectively, and how to move beyond the problems stemming from our past.

Stress or symptom reduction is often noted after even making the first call for help!  A counselor can provide support, education, creative solutions, and guidance.  

Certain periods of life call for the guidance of an objective party:

• The "storm and stress" of adolescence  (This is a difficult time for both parents and children)
• Losing a loved one
• Transitioning between developmental periods of life, such as adolescence to adulthood, or adulthood to older age
• Increased personal demands that exacerbate underlying anxiety and depression
• Ongoing marital or family conflict
• Caregiver stress - the arrival of a new baby and/or caring for an aging parent

Learning better ways to manage symptoms can ensure that difficulties pass more quickly and chances of a resurgence of clinical symptoms decrease. 

Commom Questions

What is a Professional Counselor?

Professional counselors work with individuals, families, groups and organizations. Counseling is a collaborative effort between the counselor and client. Professional counselors assist clients in identifying goals and potential solutions to problems which can cause emotional turmoil; seek to improve communication and coping skills; strengthen self-esteem; and promote behavior change and optimal mental health. Through counseling we examine the behaviors, thoughts and feelings that are causing difficulties in your life. You learn effective ways to deal with problems by building upon personal strengths and become more resilient.  A professional counselor will encourage personal growth and development in ways that foster your best interest and welfare. *

*www.answers.com

How Long do you go?

Ideally, counseling is terminated when the problem that you pursued counseling for becomes more manageable or is resolved. However, some insurance companies and managed care plans may limit the number of sessions for which they pay. You should check with your health plan to find out more about any limitations in your coverage. Initially seeing your counselor weekly will be recommended, then progressing towards less frequent meetings.  

How Much does it Cost?

This varies due to your specific insurance company and their co-payment and/or deductible.  For those without insurance coverage, expect to pay $125 for the initial assessment and $100 thereafter per each session.  Exploring your insurance benefits are part of my services, and identifying out-of-pocket payment before you enter into counseling can alleviate added stress.  I will go over this in detail with you prior to your first appointment and complete authorizations on your behalf.

Angel Oak on Johns Island

Still have questions?

Click here to contact me for further information.