FAQs
What is Counseling?
Counseling: Counseling services, also referred to as therapy, are conducted by licensed mental health professionals. They are professionally trained to work with individuals, couples, and families of all ages to diagnose and treat problematic behaviors that disrupt people from living their lives to the fullest. This may include past traumas, family issues, divorce, stress & anxiety, addiction, and adolescent issues to name a few. Engaging in therapy is a commitment, as it takes time to work through the counseling process. For many, confronting hurtful past events, or unhealthy practices, is the first step towards healing. Through a therapeutic relationship, and using personalized counseling techniques, therapists can help clients navigate and work towards finding a healthier path in their life’s journey.
Why is mental wellness important?
According to the CDC, mental wellness is comprised of 3 components: emotional health, psychological health, and social well-being. Combined, these determine how we think, feel, and act. If one part of this triad is “off”, then one’s mental wellness will be out of balance. Mental Wellness can change over time due to a number of different reasons. If a big life event occurs, and one does not have the mental cognition to process, or is lacking healthy coping strategies, one may need to seek out counseling services to help restore their balance. Sometimes children don’t have the capacity, or communication skills, to process the loss of a loved one or parents’ getting divorced and they need to learn strategies to help then through their challenging situations. There are times people have to start all over again (whether it’s by choice or unfortunate circumstances) and not having a drawn out plan feels burdensome and scary; coaching can help get you on track working towards a positive outcome. Life is always happening; sometimes for the better and sometimes for what feels like the worse. If mental wellness is not prioritized, it can cross over to physical symptoms and health concerns. Depression, among other poor mental health conditions, can eventually lead to heart disease, strokes, and type 2 diabetes. Counseling and coaching come into play to help restore poor mental health and mental illness (diagnosed condition). The purpose is to use psychoeducation throughout the healing process, so that the techniques and coping strategies learned can be used in future situations so people can help regulate themselves and keep themselves mentally healthy. As professional mental health counselors and coaches, we at Crossroads believe it is our mission to help people of all ages and backgrounds live their best and healthiest lives. That is why we do what we do, and are honored to work with you and your families to help restore your mental wellness!
General Hours
We are open Monday-Friday, 9am-7pm. (Hours vary per therapist.)
Some of our therapists and coaches may work other hours. Please see OUR TEAM for service times outside of our regular hours. Each practitioner has their hours listed under their profiles.
Getting Started
We have answered some common questions for new clients who may have questions before they schedule their first appointment. If you still have questions, you can submit them via our online form. Select the “General Comment or Question” option. You can also call us; however, email is the best communication, as we do not have a receptionist at this time. However; you are welcome to call our main number and leave a voice message and we’ll get back with you.
Why don’t you have a receptionist?
Once you meet with your therapist and become a client, they manage all communications and scheduling with you through our client portal. When you arrive at our office, you’ll check in and your therapist will meet you in the waiting room.
Some of our clients prefer video sessions instead of driving to our office to meet in person, so we don’t have a need for a receptionist at this time. This may change in the future, but for now, a receptionist is not needed.
How do I schedule an appointment?
Visit the Our Team link at the top of the page to learn more information about our therapists. Once you’ve selected who you would like to meet with, click on the Contact Us link and complete the form. Once you send it, you’ll be contacted to work out a date and time to meet with the provider.
Do you offer a free consultation?
Our providers will contact you to get more information about your needs, and to see if Crossroads is a good fit. Feel free to ask questions prior to scheduling your first session.
Your first session fee is due at the time of service.
What happens during the first session?
Your initial contact with us, whether via phone, email or walk-in is a simple process to get to know a bit about why you are seeking counseling, or coaching services with us. Your first session will give you, and us, a chance to get know each other better.
We’ll go over our fees, insurance, attendance and cancellation policies, and other processes with you during this session. Our intake questionnaire gives us a better overview of your needs.
Intakes can also require other forms to be completed; such as our informed consent, HIPPA Privacy Practice, and anything else that is specific to your needs.
And finally, you can share whatever you want with your therapist or coach.
What if I want a different therapist after the first session?
The therapeutic relationship is very important, and you are not obligated to continue with the person you had your first session with. You can request a different therapist any time, regardless of how many sessions you’ve had.
Counseling sessions are typically 50 minutes. However, each therapist sets their own schedule, so these times may vary. Please check the OUR TEAM section to choose your therapist or coach, and see their session policies.
I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?
Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the courage to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. In our work together, I’ll help you explore and identify your strengths and how to implement them to reduce the influence of the problems you are facing.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
The difference is between someone who can do something, and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, counseling is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, and you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.
Why shouldn’t I just take medication?
Medication can be effective but it alone cannot solve all issues. Sometimes medication is needed in conjunction with counseling. Our work together is designed to explore and unpack the problems you are experiencing and expand on your strengths that can help you accomplish your personal goals.
How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?
Because each person has different issues and goals for counseling, it will be different depending on the individual. We tailor our therapeutic approach to your specific needs.
How long will it take?
Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time counseling can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek counseling in the first place.
I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?
We are so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication will be crucial to your success.