Frequently Asked Questions

It's normal to have questions before beginning something new. If your question hasn't been answered below, feel free to contact us, and we'll do our best to get it answered!

Q: What is the cost for counseling with Vanessa, Resident in Counseling?

A: The Licensed Resident Counselor rate is:

Q: Can I use my HSA/FSA to pay for counseling?

A: Yes! You are welcome to pay by HSA or FSA if you have them available.

Q: Do you take insurance?

A: No, I do not take insurance at this time. However, I also use a service called Mentaya, which allows you to use your out-of-network insurance benefits towards the cost of counseling. If you are interested in this service, you can sign up and view your OON benefits here: https://mentaya.com/inviteclient/38AcV2OlO6Z89I4Pb5Li

Q: Why don't you take insurance?

A: This choice was made to benefit clients - allowing them to choose their therapist & length of counseling, increased privacy and confidentiality, no requirement to have a mental health diagnosis on their medical record, and allowing them to consult with a therapist on important issues that are not billable by insurance (such as coping with life changes, effective communication in relationships, increasing personal insight, etc.). 

Q: Where do I attend in-person counseling sessions?

A: Vanessa's in-person counseling services are conducted at 

Hyland Heights Counseling Center

82 English Tavern Rd, Rustburg, VA 24588

Q: I live too far away. Can I still see you for counseling online?

A: All of our clinical counseling services are only available to those who reside in the state of Virginia, permanently or for school. However, if you meet that criteria, you are able to attend counseling sessions fully virtual through our telehealth services!

Q: I filled out the appointment request form, now what?

A: Once your request is received, your counselor will reach out to you by your preferred contact method ASAP (other contact methods may be utilized if the preferred does not seem to be working). After you have discussed beginning counseling, you will receive email instructions to access the secure client portal. On the client portal, you will be able to see your scheduled appointments, other available appointment times, and access any documentation you need to fill out for your appointment or resources your counselor provides for you.

Q: How long are the counseling sessions?

A: From the start of your appointment time, counseling sessions are scheduled for 50 minutes, and family & couple sessions are preferred to be scheduled for 75 minutes, but 50 min sessions may also be available in certain circumstances.

Q: What should I expect for my IN-PERSON appointment?

A: Appointments are typically scheduled to reoccur at the same day & time each week, but changes can be made when available. When you arrive at the counseling center, the front door will be locked for security purposes. We do not have a receptionist, so you can knock at the door and someone will come let you into the waiting area. Your counselor will come to greet you from there.

Q: What should I expect for my TELEHEALTH appointment?

A: Appointments are typically scheduled to reoccur at the same day & time each week, but changes can be made when available. You will log into the secure client portal to access your telehealth appointment.

Q: I want a specific type of counseling. Can you provide that?

A: Possibly! You are more than welcome to write your request in the comments section of the appointment request form or ask your counselor if they are willing/able to provide a certain type of counseling, however, we cannot make any guarantees.

Q: How is Christian counseling different from Pastoral Counseling?

A: Christian counselors are not pastors. They are licensed mental health clinicians who provide Clinical Mental Health Counseling services conducted from a Christian/biblical worldview. Pastors typically are not licensed counselors. Pastoral counseling can be pursued alongside clinical counseling, if desired.