FAQ

FAQ for your first appointment

Psychiatric Emergencies. 

Central Valley Counseling Center does not offer after-hours crisis intervention services.  If you are having a psychiatric emergency, contact your physician, call 911 or visit your closest emergency room for assistance.

I’ve never been to counseling before.   How do I start?

The first step is to make a phone call to schedule an appointment or to schedule a free 15 minute phone consultation.  Leave a message on the phone (559-908-2991) and I will return your call ASAP. (I don’t answer my phone when I am with clients however I check my messages every 1-2 hours)  On the day of your first appointment, please arrive 5-10 minutes early to complete necessary forms on the clipboard. Attach your fee (cash or check) to the clipboard.  If you pay with cash, place cash into an envelope and write your name and amount on the envelope. At your scheduled appointment time I will come into the waiting room to greet you.

What is your experience?  Can you help me?

I have been working in mental health for over 30 years with individuals, groups, couples, families, children and adolescents.  I am continually attending training and educational seminars to ensure that I bring my clients the best treatment available.  I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Imago Relationship Therapist, Certified Dynamic Marriage Facilitator, and I am a Family Center Regulatory Therapist. See my resume for more details.

What forms of payment do you accept? What are your fees?

Pay online with credit card through PayPal 48 hours prior to your appointment or pay with cash or check at the time of service.   My fees range from $100-$150 per session.  Group therapy fees range from $45 to $75 depending on type and length of group.

Do you accept insurance?

I am an “out of network” provider with several insurances.  Clients pay the full fee at each session and I provide courtesy billing or I will provide you with a Superbill of all paid services.  Many PPO’s will provide some degree of reimbursement when you see an out of network provider. Most HMO insurances do not provide any reimbursement for Out of Network Providers. Please check with your insurance as all plans vary.  Reimbursement is not guaranteed.

Are my sessions confidential?

Written permission from the client is required prior to any information being released from this office except where required by law (Danger to self, danger to others, abuse of a child or elder).  See privacy policy.

What appointment times do you have?

All appointments are scheduled in advance.  No drop in appointments are allowed. Generally once a patient has begun therapy a standing appointment day and time are established.  Usually patients are seen weekly or every other week depending on their individual needs and circumstances.