What is the first session like?
Your initial session is mainly a time for information gathering. We’ll spend some time getting to know one another and reviewing relevant information that you’ve listed on your new client forms. We’ll discuss the reasons why you’ve decided to begin counseling. From there, we’ll come up with a list of goals and a plan to help you achieve those goals.
How do I know if counseling is “working’?
While therapy isn’t always “pain-free”, you should typically notice a reduction in symptoms after a few sessions along with a sense of “being on the right track.” When you have insights or opinions about going in a different direction in therapy, you should voice these to your therapist. Counseling is a collaborative relationship, and both you and your therapist are responsible for making sure your time is productive. Attending therapy is hard work and it typically involves some discomfort. But when you begin to feel the gap closing between where you are and where you want to be, it is most definitely worth it!
How long does counseling take?
The duration of therapy largely depends on the issue(s) you want to discuss and work on. Most individuals experience some symptom relief within a few sessions, but lasting change takes more time to build. In general, the more goals, the longer the therapy lasts. Depending on the issue at hand, clients typically come once a week, though some come every two weeks. During your first counseling visit, based on your issues and goals, your therapist can provide you with a better estimate of counseling duration. Each therapy session lasts approximately 45-50 minutes.
Our clinicians are intent on giving you the support you need as quickly as you can sustain. It’s important to recognize that you didn’t get to this place in your life overnight, and you won’t get out of it overnight either. Real and lasting change takes time!
How much does counseling cost?
There is a wide range of fees for counseling and coaching services in Louisiana. Depending on where you seek therapy support, your fee for counseling is determined by several factors. One such factor is the education level and experience of the therapist. Your fee pays for more than the counseling hour. It also goes toward the therapist’s time preparing for the session and file processing after a session. The rate for a counseling appointment with a therapist at Crossroads Professional Counseling, LLC ranges from $125-200/session. We are considered an out-of-network provider with insurance companies. Upon request, we can provide you with the paperwork to submit your sessions to your health insurance provider. Involving your insurance comes with several pros and cons, and your therapist will be happy to discuss those with you.
I’m not particularly religious. Am I still a good fit for Crossroads?
No matter where you are on the spectrum of faith, you’ll totally fit here. We just like to be upfront on our website about faith because we don’t want you to be surprised that we are Christians. The extent to which we discuss spiritual things depends entirely on your comfort level and interest.
