
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore our FAQs to find clear, concise answers to your questions about mental health therapy. From understanding treatment options to knowing what to expect in sessions, we're here to support your journey. Feel free to reach out if you do not see an answer to your question below!
FAQs
Starting therapy can feel like a big step — and it's natural to have questions.
This page is here to help you understand what mental health counseling is, how it works, and what to expect so you can feel confident moving forward. If you don't see your question here, please reach out directly — there are no silly questions and no pressure.
What is Mental Health Counseling?
Mental Health Counseling is an opportunity to discuss/talk about issues that are important to you while having a trained objective person (Psychotherapist) help work through not only the current situation but in dealing with similar situations in the future or in the past. Therapy can be about one specific problem, or it can be about multiple concerns. Counselling sessions can help you to gain clarity on an issue, change old patterns, untangle complex personal issues, or embark on a journey of self-development. You may seek counselling because of a crisis, or you may be encouraged to seek counselling by family members, friends or colleagues. Something to mention is that counseling is a collaborative event, it requires an active role from both you and the therapist for change to occur.
Is counseling right for me?
It is common for people to minimize their problems and try to brush them off; after all, reaching out for help can be unknown territory. If you find that the issues bringing you to this page are interfering with your day-to-day, you could benefit from psychotherapy. Disruptions in your daily life can vary greatly, from having difficulty getting out of bed in the morning to isolating yourself from others because it is too hard to talk to anyone. You are the only person who can truly decide whether psychotherapy is needed or not. Know that taking a chance on yourself can be life-changing; if you start the process and feel it is not a good fit, you can always cease services. The process is flexible to fit your needs.
The benefits of therapy depend on your commitment and level of readiness. Some benefits can include, boosting self-confidence or improving self-esteem, improving communication skills, learning/finding new coping skills, attaining a better understanding of yourself, changing old patterns and developing new ones, or managing your emotional feelings such as sadness, anger or other highly charged emotions you may be feeling.
Does my insurance cover the cost of treatment?
To determine if you have mental health coverage, we strongly encourage you to call your insurance provider to discuss your benefits (you can find the number provided on the back of your insurance card). Click Here to see what Insurance companies we are currently paneled with. Please remember to have your insurance card at your first visit, and you can upload it/send it electronically through our secure portal. Below are some helpful questions to ask your insurance provider:
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What are my mental health benefits?
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How many therapy sessions does my plan cover per calendar year?
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What is my deductible and have I met it this year?
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What is my copayment or coinsurance amount per session?
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How much does my insurance pay for an out-of-network provider?
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Do I need preauthorization for my visits? If so, can I get a preauthorization number, how many visits does this authorize, and what are the effective dates for this authorization?
How do I schedule, reschedule or cancel an appointment?
Please reach out to our practice manager, Sheryl via phone (614) 206-9788 or email Sheryl@ageless-counseling.com to either schedule or reschedule an appointment. This goes for both new and existing clients.
If you need to cancel, please give our practice manager a 24-hour notice, and we can reschedule for a different day. Appointments canceled less than 24 hours will be charged a fee of $35; please be aware that insurance does not cover any late cancellation fees or no-shows.
What should I expect for the first appointment?
The initial session will be an initial assessment to discuss your history and needs for treatment. During this first session, you will have the opportunity to see how therapy will work, review office policies, privacy, and confidentiality, as well as determine whether or not you are comfortable with the therapist. We’ll also get to know each other and assess if we are a good fit together!
Side note: It’s vital to have a positive working relationship with your therapist, so it’s recommended that you and the therapist will meet 2-3 times before deciding whether or not the relationship will continue. The therapist will provide you with referrals of specialists or trusted colleagues if they feel someone else might better be a better fit.
What is Telehealth (virtual online) therapy like?
Most of our therapists provide telehealth services as their main method of therapy. Please discuss with your therapist if this option is an appropriate method for you. We use a HIPPA-compliant software that work similarly to Zoom or other virtual platforms. You are sent an email or text reminder before your session time. Just click the link to join your session. Prior to using telehealth, you will be required to complete a brief telehealth consent form for treatment, which your therapist will send you electronically. Devices such as computers, smart phones, or tablets can be used to for the video session and only require you to have a decent internet connection and a private space (e.g., bedroom, porch, or even your car).
How long are the therapy sessions?
All sessions are typically 45-50 minutes long. People typically meet on a weekly or bi-weekly basis depending on your personal needs. The length of time while in therapy will depend on each individual circumstance. Both you and the therapist will determine that together.
How long will I be in therapy for?
Psychotherapy is a very individualized process; the length of time that will be right for you will depend on your circumstances. We are all dynamic individuals, and so is the treatment we receive. Whether you are looking to target specific challenges in a short period of time or would like to dig deeper, giving yourself more time in this process, the interventions can be adjusted accordingly. I will be happy to give you feedback on the process and what may seem most fitting; however, you will have the power to make decisions about this process.
Is there a wait list?
Due to a recent uptick in demand, you could be put on a waitlist for up to 2 weeks for telehealth or 4 weeks for in-home visits in Fairfield. This may not apply to you so please feel free to reach out to get on our schedule today!
Do you provide crisis services or case management?
We are not a crisis center. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency or are in life-threatening situation, please call the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: dial 988 or visit 988lifeline.org, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department.
Franklin County: 614-276-2273 or www.netcareaccess.org
Farfield County: 740-687-8255 (TALK) or www.fairfieldcounty211.org
Ohio Crisis Text Line: text 4hope to 741741
All clients are assessed for any crisis concerns in session, and therapists can facilitate the development of a crisis plan and provide resources as needed.