Frequently Asked Questions

To make an appointment, please call 228-990-8980.  To help us serve you best, please have your name, phone number, and basic insurance information ready.

Can I make an appointment without (or with) a referral?

Certainly! We welcome referrals from physicians, psychiatrists, etc. However, we do not require a referral to make an appointment. Call us at 228-990-8980. If you or your physician would like your physician to receive updates about your counseling, please let the office know so that can be arranged.

Can you see....

            Children? Yes. We have a kids room for children and sessions with families who may have younger children or require more space. Younger children will likely require an adult in the session with them.

            Teenagers? Yes. Teenagers who are minors and not emancipated will need consent from a parent or legal guardian. For the first session, often a parent/guardian is asked to attend the session initially to help give background information.

            Families/children involved with CPS/foster care? Generally, yes, although this may require some additional information to begin counseling.

      My family needs an assessment for court/return to school- can you do it?

We do not presently take court cases due to complications in treatment. Assessments for court or school often indicate the need of a clinical psychologist who can do a battery of testing. We suggest Anchor Psychology, Jane Cook, PhD, Bridgewater Psychiatry, Merit Gulf Oaks or Memorial.

      Can you prescribe medication?

No. For medication, you need to see an MD. Contact your GP or consider a psychiatrist. Gulf Oaks, Memorial, Bridgewater, Singing River Behavioral Health, and Singing River Mental Health (community mental health center) have psychiatrists on staff who can prescribe medications.

We are happy to provide the psychotherapy in conjunction with your medication program and can arrange to update your doctor about your psychotherapy care as requested.

      How long do sessions last?  

Psychotherapy sessions are about an hour long. During your first appointment, there will be some intake paper work. Please allow for this in your schedule. We recommend arriving a few minutes early, so that the paper work does not take up your session time.  Because of time constraints, if you arrive more than 20 minutes late for your appointment, we will have to reschedule your appointment.

Consultations are available in 30 minute and 45 minute sessions. Due to time constraints, if your session begins more than 10 minutes late, it will have to be rescheduled.

What do I need for my first appointment?

You will have a short intake form to complete. Please come a few minutes early to fill out the form, or we are happy to mail one to you to bring to your first session. Please provide a reliable address if you would like a form mailed.

We also will request a photo ID and insurance card if you are using insurance. Please note, some insurances require the social security number of you or the policy holder to file insurance.

What times are available?

The earliest appointment available is at 9:00 am. The latest appointment available is 5:00 pm. Afternoon appointments (from 3:00pm to 5:00pm) are in highest demand, especially during the school year, and may not be immediately available when starting counseling. 

How much do sessions cost?

The standard fee for psychotherapy sessions is $225 per session. Consultations are $75 per 30 minute session and $100 per 45 minute session.  Insurance can be used for psychotherapy only.

Can I use my insurance?

We currently accept Blue Cross Blue Shield, Blue Cross Blue Shield State, Blue Cross Blue Shield Federal, and can accept insurance from local companies using Blue Cross Anthem plans.  We also accept Medicare and Medicaid.  Please note that it is best to confirm your benefits with your insurance before coming to your appointment. Plans vary within and between companies, and you may not have outpatient behavioral health benefits, or you may have a deductible required before you can access your insurance benefits.

Do I have to use my insurance if I have it?

No. You are welcome to pay for your sessions if you choose to do so. Let our staff know when you come in for your appointment that you would rather cover your sessions yourself.

More questions? Please call us at 228-990-8980.