FAQ

Q: Why is the practice name Well Counseling?

A: Well has so many meanings: it is a noun, an adverb, a verb, an adjective, and an interjection! Sydney just loved that it could mean something different for each person.

Q: Do you only do Christian Counseling?

A: No. We meet people where they are at in their journey. If you do not want Christian Counseling, just let us know. We are trained in both traditional modalities as well as integrated Christian Counseling, so it is not a problem

Q: Why don’t you take insurance?

A: This is a complicated and long answer, but here are some quick points. Some insurances do not cover mental health. Some issues are not diagnosable. Some careers prohibit a diagnosis. Additionally, some insurances are expensive. This allows for freedom in the counseling room. More time to focus on the client and the process. HSA cards are accepted, though! Reach out for more information.

Q: This will be my first time in counseling, what should I expect?

A: You should expect to have to answer a bunch of questions spanning from your childhood to your present situation. This helps your therapist have as much background information as possible. In the first session, they will want to know what is bringing you in. They will also review any questions they have from your paperwork. Each therapist has their own style, but our goal is to make you feel comfortable and welcome. If it isn’t a good fit at the end of the session, we will give you referrals. These will help you find someone who might be better for you. This ensures you find a good fit for your situation.

Q: I’ve had a couple of other counselors and they didn’t seem like a fit, how are you different?

A: Glad you asked. As we said, everyone has their own style. It is important you feel comfortable with your therapist’s style so you will open up and be honest. At Well Counseling we are warm and inviting and will work with you at your own pace. If it is not right for you, just let us know and we will give you referrals.

Q: What is the difference between counseling and therapy?

A: These terms seem to be used interchangeably in the US. There are possibly some technical differences, but in general, there are not any. Master’s Level degrees that can do this kind of work are Social Workers, Professional (or Mental Health) Counselors and Marriage and Family Therapists. So this is where we get these terms for this work.

Q: What is the difference between counseling and coaching?

A: Coaching does not require any formal training and is not a regulated field in the US. Counseling requires a Master’s degree, a national exam, and 3000 hours of supervised practice before you can apply to be fully licensed (in most states). It is a highly regulated field in each state.

Q: What do we need for virtual/online counseling?

A: Not much! Simply a device that has camera and microphone; a computer or tablet is preferred over a phone. You will need a good internet connection and you will be sent a link to join the session. We use Google Meet so you may have to download some software or an app. Please be in a quiet, secure environment where you can engage in confidential meetings. And you should not be distracted by doing other activities such as work or driving, etc.

Q: Why is your tagline *not your typical therapist?

A: It came about after several clients gave me this feedback. I have never liked “stuffy” or more “traditional” counseling styles. I like to be comfortable and for my clients to be comfortable. I rarely say things like “how did that make you feel?” I also think it is important to laugh when we can. I don’t want our time together to be cold and clinical, but warm and kind and nice. So, I guess these kinds of things just made me different enough from “a typical therapist.” I do recognize that there are plenty of therapists out there who share a similar outlook with me. I think it is wonderful!