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Frequently Asked Questions

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What is Christian Counseling?

It is important to understand the difference between being a Christian that is a counselor and a Christian Counselor. Some counselors are Christians who work as professional counselors without mentioning God or the Bible unless the client initiates the topic. Even then, counselors may say little while listening and affirming their client’s opinions and ideas. Conversely, Christian Counselors seek to help people regain a sense of hope and direction for their life that is found in Jesus Christ and on principles in the Holy Bible. Some consider themselves Biblical Counselors, who provide advice or counsel only from the Bible. Another type of Christian Counselor, and the type we strive to be at HJCC, is an integrated counselor. We use the Bible and the Holy Spirit as the foundation of our counsel, but integrate biblically and scientifically sound psychological principles in helping our clients.

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Specifically at HJCC, Christian Counseling also seeks to address the whole person, spirit, soul, and body and provides interventions with every part of the client's triune being. We further seek to address any spiritual roots that may be affecting one's current symptoms that the client is seeking to alleviate. 

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Do I have to be a Christian to receive counseling at HJCC? 

HJCC does not discriminate against anyone on the basis of race, religion, sexual orientation, or religious beliefs. We strive to show unconditional love and acceptance to our clients. We understand that the decision to receive Jesus Christ is very personal and private. We also understand that in order for the therapy to be successful, it is essential to find someone who is the right fit for you. In order to determine if HJCC is a good fit for you, it is important to understand the nature of Christian Counseling.

 

Christian Counseling is a very specific treatment modality that incorporates Christian principles based on the Holy Bible and a relationship with Father God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. Therefore, if your personal values conflict with the treatment modality of Christian Counseling, you may determine that HJCC may not be a good fit for you. You are welcome to call for a free consultation prior to receiving services to assist you in determining if HJCC is a good fit for you. 

 

What age range of clients do you see? 

HJCC serves clients 18 years old and older.

 

How long will my appointment last? 

Most appointments last 45-60 minutes.  Your first session can last up to 90 minutes. Inner Healing Prayer sessions can last 90 - 120 minutes. 

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How long will therapy take? How often will we meet? 

During the initial phase of counseling, your therapist will discuss the estimated length of time to achieve your particular goals.  The time it takes to achieve one's therapeutic goals vary from person to person. Each individual has a unique set of needs; some people may need just a few sessions, while others may be in counseling for months or years.  Ideally, counseling is terminated when the problems addressed become more manageable or resolved. We generally recommend that therapy begin by meeting weekly or biweekly. Once the client sees progress in their goals, we will lengthen the time between appointments to assess the client's ability to maintain progress without therapeutic intervention. Once goals are achieved and maintained, the therapist and client collaborate about terminating services. 

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How much do services cost?

Rates range from $150- $200depending on the services you choose.  

 

Do you take insurance?

No, insurance is not accepted at this time.  However, I can provide a receipt that you can submit to your insurance company to request out-of-network reimbursement.

 

Do you have a sliding fee scale?

No, sliding fee scales are not available. 

 

Are there any extraneous charges for other services?

Occasionally, it may be necessary for your counselor to return phone calls, write letters on your behalf, etc. There are charges for each of these services; please inquire if necessary.

 

Will my therapist testify on my behalf?

It is HJCC's policy not to intervene with legal issues. We do not willfully testify in court; if subpoenaed, the therapeutic relationship will be terminated and he/she will be 100% responsible for the expert witness fees. 

 

Is what I share in session confidential?

There are a few limits to confidentiality in counseling,  including imminent danger to you or others, and/or abuse to children, elderly, or disabled persons.  HJCC is also required by law to share your records if subpoenaed.  All other information shared is protected under the client/counselor relationship unless you provide written consent.   In most cases, your therapist will discuss any circumstances related to your records being shared.

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Is Inner Healing Prayer required?  Can you receive Inner Healing Prayer without counseling?

Inner Healing Prayer can be done independently of or in conjunction with counseling.

 

What if I have a counseling emergency?

If you feel like you want to hurt yourself or someone else, immediately call:

 

  • Behavioral Health Link/GCAL: (800) 715-4225

  • Riverwoods Behavioral Health System: (770) 766-3367

  • Peachford Hospital: (770) 454-5589 

  • Ridgeview Institute: (770) 434-4567

  • Or go to the emergency room of your choice.

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Additionally, call and leave a message for your therapist, so that she may respond as soon as possible.

 

What if I have to cancel my appointment?

HJCC requests 24-hour notice to cancel sessions.  If a 24-hour notice is not given or you don’t show up for your appointment without any notice, you will be charged an inconvenience fee of $50. Twenty-four hours is calculated according to your appointment time.  For example, if your appointment time is at 4:00pm on Wednesday, it would be your responsibility to cancel your appointment by 4:00pm on Tuesday. 

 

Sometimes canceled appointments and no-shows can be a clinical issue, where you may be consciously or unconsciously trying to avoid working on your issues.  At your therapist's discretion, this may be discussed at your next appointment.

 

Why do you charge for late cancellation or missed appointments?

The therapist you are seeing allocates your time slot exclusively to you.  Other clients may be able to utilize that time slot if you cancel in a reasonable time. If you don’t show or don’t give sufficient notice, those clients will not be able to utilize that time slot.  

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Do you waive cancellation/no show fees?

These fees will only be waived in cases of dire emergencies, such as sudden illnesses. This will be determined at the discretion of your therapist.

 

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