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Frequently Asked Questions

Find some commonly asked questions about mental health counseling below.  We also welcome you reaching out for more personal matters.

How can counseling help me?

Counseling can help improve symptoms of many mental health conditions. In therapy, you will learn hands on tools to cope with symptoms and discomfort.  While you may not respond to treatment right away, research shows the benefits of therapy last teaches skills to address symptoms on your own. These skills last after therapy ends, and symptoms may continue to improve, making it less likely you will need further treatment.

Untreated mental health issues often get worse and may have other negative effects. They could also lead to:

  • Inability to work or go to school

  • Difficulty in relationships or taking care of children

  • Increased risk of health issues

  • Hospitalization

  • Suicide

What is the difference between counseling and coaching?

This is a very common question. With life coaching becoming more common, it can be a little confusing to know the difference.  The most basic difference is in what these professions do. Therapists assess, diagnose, and treat mental health concerns like depression and anxiety. As such, therapists, we focus on identifying and reducing symptoms. 

Coaches motivate and encourage people to achieve specific goals. Because it does not involve identifying and reducing symptoms, coaches often describe their work as being more positive in nature. 

Of course, there is overlap -; many therapists focus attention on client strengths and resources, and many coaches aim to reduce and resolve the problems that stand in the way of clients achieving their goals.  We do offer life coaching on a different site: www.tlpearson.co.

How does confidentiality work?

Basically, whatever you say in therapy, stays in therapy.  However, there are times when a therapist is legally obligated to break confidentiality:

  • Harm to self or others - If a therapist believes that you are in serious danger of hurting yourself or someone else, a family member, police or ambulance will be called to ensure safety.

  • A child under the age of 16 or older adult in care is in danger - In these cases CPS/APS or the police will be called.

  • Your files are subpoenaed by the court

We also carry confidentiality into the community.  If we see them in the community we will not say hello unless you approach us.  We don’t want to put you in a situation where you have to explain how you know us.   

Do you accept insurance?

Yes, we do accept some insurance plans.  Currently that list is Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Midlands Choice, and United Health Care.  As this information may change we ask that you also check with your insurance company. We may still be able to see you if you have a PPO type plan and want to submit a claim for out-of-network reimbursement.  We can give you a receipt or submit a claim on your behalf to help facilitate any reimbursement you may be entitled to. Please note that submitting an insurance claim means we will need to give you a mental health diagnosis.

How much does therapy cost?

While some therapists will charge as much as $250 per hour, the average 45 to 50-minute session costs between $120 and $200.  We accept some insurance, major credit cards and health savings accounts.

As clinicians, we want to help those who cannot afford traditional therapy fees, and we have two pro-bono slots a season and offer limited counseling with a supervised intern obtaining his or her degree. We are thrilled to help people in this manner. One of the biggest barriers to mental health treatment is affordability for those who don't have insurance.



 

 

Do you offer telehealth?
 

 

Yes, we do offer telehealth sessions! Telehealth is offered on a secure network.  Please ensure you are in a private location and that others cannot hear you.



 

 

Where do you provide therapy sessions?

 

We currently provide sessions in Nebraska and Iowa. We cannot offer psychotherapy in other states besides the ones we are licensed in, including telehealth. If you are on vacation or out of the state, your therapy session will be rescheduled.

 





How long are the sessions?

 

A typical session can last between 45-50 minutes.  We do also offer 30 minute sessions appropriate for children, and 60 minute sessions if appropriate.  There is a cost difference based on time.  Most insurance companies default to pay the 45-50 minute session.  Please check with your insurance carrier for specific details.  



 

 

What can I expect during my first therapy session?


The first therapy session is usually an intake session. Think of it as a meet and greet, we are collecting information from you and are getting to know us and our therapy style. The first session is important, especially for clients. This is your time to determine if we are a good fit for you. It is important for you to feel comfortable, understood, and heard.

How much does therapy cost?
Do you accept insurance?
How does confidentiality work
How can counseling help me?
Whts th difference between counseling and coaching?
Do you offer telehealth?
Where do you provide therapy sessions?
What can I expect during my first therapy session?
How long are the sessions?
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