Frequently Asked Questions
How can individual counseling help me?
Counseling is more than just “talking” about your struggles. We’ll use evidence-based strategies and a supportive relationship to overcome them together. Click to learn more about individual counseling or about how Cooper Counseling Center can help specifically with past traumatic experiences, anxiety, and depression.
How do I know if you are the right counselor for me?
Choosing someone to support your counseling journey is an important and personal decision. For this reason, we offer a complimentary 15-minute phone consultation to provide the opportunity for you to get to know our counselors and their approach, and allow them to answer any questions you may have before deciding to move forward with services.
When can we meet?
Our counselors have unique schedules. Some offer evening and weekend appointments. Please let us know if you are looking for a specific day and time so that we can match you with a counselor who offers the availability you need.
How long are sessions?
Sessions are typically 50 minutes long. Although 80 minute private-pay sessions can also be scheduled. Longer sessions are helpful for clients doing trauma work as this allows your counselor to get an update on your week, engage in intensive healing, and ensure you feel grounded so that you leave the office feeling ready to handle the rest of your day.
How often do we meet?
It is recommended to start with weekly sessions to maintain focus on your goals and ensure you have the support needed. However, this can be flexible based on your individual situation. As you work to achieve your goals and learn new skills, you can decrease your sessions to every two weeks and then monthly. You and your counselor will make these decisions together to ensure you feel comfortable and supported.
How long will I be in counseling?
The duration of counseling looks different for everyone because each individual’s needs, experiences, and goals are so unique. We will make a treatment plan that is specific to your situation and have occasional conversations to ensure we are on the same page and we are achieving the changes that you want to see in your life. The ultimate goal is to equip you with the skills and confidence that you need to manage life situations as you move towards finishing counseling services.
Is everything I talk about private?
Absolutely! Confidentiality is the foundation of counseling, which allows you to share openly in your sessions. What you share with your counselor is completely confidential, except in the following cases which are required to be reported by law 1) an immediate threat of harm to yourself or others 2) suspicion of abuse to vulnerable populations (children, elderly, and the disabled) 3) in the case of a court subpoena. If you choose to use insurance, certain information must be disclosed to the insurance company to obtain payment. Click here to learn more. Your confidentiality is very important to us, so your rights are outlined in our paperwork and will be discussed further during your initial intake session.
How much does counseling cost?
Initial intake with Sarah Cooper: $185 (50 minutes)
Initial intake with Marisa Yerkes: $160 (50 minutes)
Initial intake with Erin Mace: $160 (50 minutes)
————————————————————————
Individual session with Sarah Cooper: $160 (50 minutes)
Individual session with Marisa Yerkes : $135 (50 minutes)
Individual session with Erin Mace : $135 (50 minutes)
————————————————————————
Extended individual session with Sarah Cooper: $225 (80 minutes)
Extended individual session with Marisa Yerkes $205 (80 minutes)
Extended individual session with Erin Mace $205 (80 minutes)
————————————————————————
Intern intake and individual session: $60 (50 minutes)
You can find more about pricing here.
Counseling is an added cost. Is it worth it?
Counseling is a financial commitment. It is an investment in yourself and empowers you to heal from past experiences and gain a new self-awareness. Investing in your healing and self-discovery can have a profound and positive impact on your well-being, personal confidence, relationships, your work, and ability to take back control of your life. If you’re like most of the individuals we have worked with, you have tried to resolve things on your own but haven’t found lasting relief. You’re tired of feeling this way. You deserve to live a happy and fulfilled life. You’re worthy of the investment.
Will my insurance cover my counseling sessions?
Cooper Counseling Center is in-network with Aetna as well as BlueCross and BlueShield. However, each insurance plan is different, so it is recommended that you know and understand your specific coverage before beginning services to avoid any surprises. You can contact your insurance company directly by using the phone number on the back of your insurance card and asking the following questions:
Do I have outpatient mental health benefits and what are they?
What is my copay for each counseling session?
What is my deductible, has my deductible been met, and do outpatient mental health services go toward my deductible?
Do I need a pre-authorization or approval from my primary care physician before starting counseling?
How many sessions per calendar year does my plan cover?
Is Cooper Counseling Center an in-network provider for my insurance plan? Marisa and Erin are billed under Cooper Counseling Center’s insurance contracts.
Do I have out-of-network benefits?
If you have insurance coverage other than Aetna or BlueCross and BlueShield, Cooper Counseling Center may be considered a provider under your out-of-network benefits for mental health counseling services. To learn more about out-of-network benefits, click here.
Do I have out-of-network outpatient mental health benefits?
Do I need a pre-approval before obtaining out-of-network mental health services to be reimbursed?
What is the coverage amount per counseling session?
How much does my plan cover for an out-of-network mental health provider?
Do I have a deductible and if so, what is it and can my out-of-network services go towards my deductible?
How many sessions per calendar year does my plan cover/reimburse?
What do I need to submit for reimbursement?
I want to book a session, how can we get started?
If you are using insurance, the first step is to contact your insurance provider to ensure services are covered.
Set up a complimentary 15-minute consultation or schedule an appointment by contacting us or you can self-schedule a consultation here.
Read below to learn how to prepare for your first session.
Contact us with any questions or concerns.
What does the first session look like?
The first session is an initial intake, which is different from a typical counseling session. The intake will allow your counselor to learn more about what has led you to pursue counseling, your concerns, your goals, and your personal history. This session gives you and your counselor the opportunity to get to know each other and allows you to ask questions, as well as, determine if you feel comfortable. Our counselors strive to create a comfortable, welcoming, and non-judgmental environment where you can feel safe to be yourself and conquer change. By the end of the session, we’d like you to leave feeling hopeful, supported, and empowered.
How can I prepare for my first session?
You can prepare for your first session by completing the intake paperwork provided upon scheduling. You will receive an email with login instructions to your secure client portal. Please complete the intake paperwork within 48 hours of scheduling your first appointment. This will help your counselor get to know you and allows more time to be spent discussing your concerns and goals. It may also be helpful to think through areas you’d like to work on in counseling and the goals you’d like to achieve.
Can you complete this paperwork for me?
Cooper Counseling Center does not complete Social Security Disability paperwork or engage in child custody cases. For Clients seeking a letter for an emotional assistance/support animal or completion of FMLA, disability, or ADA paperwork, clients must have established treatment with one of our counselors and qualify for this need. Letters and paperwork will not be provided at intake. Please see the Informed Consent and Practice Policies for fees associated with letters, court appearances, and other paperwork.