Frequently Asked Questions
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What is mental health counseling?
Mental health counseling is the professional assessment, evaluation and treatment of an emotional disability, problem, or behavioral disorder, using verbal or behavioral methods. Licensed mental health counselors or LMHC's are trained professionals who are able to assist you get through the difficult time(s) you are experiencing with the expertise you need and the compassion you deserve. What exactly is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor? New York State Licensed practitioners called licensed mental health counselors have earned a 4 year bachelor degree followed by a 2-3 year, 60 credit graduate program earning a masters degree. They are typically trained in counseling and psychotherapy to treat individuals, couples, families, and groups with mental and emotional disorders and a variety of other behavioral challenges. They are dedicated to assist their clients achieve optimal functioning. Mental health counselors use standard mental health assessment and evaluation protocols, develop patient psychosocial histories, writes treatment plans, document patient progress, facilitates consultation and referral with other providers, and implements discharge plans. What services do licensed mental health counselors provide? Mental health counselors provide a variety of counseling and psychotherapeutic serices. Some of these services include: crisis intervention, clinical assessment and evaluation, treatment planning and case management, prevention, discharge, and aftercare services. LMHC are experienced working with individuals who may struggle with depression, anxiety disorders, (OCD), substance abuse, sexual dysfunction, eating disorders, family and parenting issues, communication problems, self-esteem dysfunction, academic or career issues, spiritual concerns, personality disorders, marital and relationship problems, dementia and adjustment disorders. How do licensees provide these services? Mental health counselors are trained in counseling, psychotherapy and prevention. They work with individuals, couples, families, groups and organizations using (brief techniques), such as crisis intervention and solution-focused approaches, or Insight therapy, Rogerian therapy, Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (longer-term approaches) when treating chronic mental health disorders or disabilities. For individuals already in a "healthy" place, and desiring to gain a deeper self understanding, Personal Life Coaching may be an option to consider. Please see About Avery Counseling page. What about confidentiality? Avery Counseling is bound by law to keep all of your mental health information private. None of your personal information can be released without your consent. However, there are exceptions to this confidentiality which include the following: a. when there is risk of imminent danger to yourself or another person b. when there is suspicion that a child is being abused c. when a valid court order is issued for medical records d. in the confines of professional consultation e. with your written consent Will my health insurance cover the services provided by a licensed mental health counselor? Yes. Most insurance companies will cover mental health counseling. To determine your specific coverage, contact your insurance provider and find out what your “out of network” benefits for mental health counseling are. If you are seeking teletherapy be sure to specify teletherapy benefits when speaking with your insurance carrier. How do I pay for my counseling services? All fees are paid at the beginning of or in advance of each clinical session. Payment made be made via credit card or Venmo. How do I get reimbursed from my insurance carrier? After you have reviewed your coverage with your provider, simply submit your Avery Counseling receipt of service to your insurance carrier for reimbursement. What are the fees for mental health counseling? Clinical Counseling/Teletherapy Session - $110.00 Taken from NYS Office of Professions Website. |
