How do I get started?
Counseling is a process that is geared toward your specific needs and goals. There are many options that you have that will help you reach your goals. The first step is to get in touch with me so we can talk about the options.
Call: 770-626-0846
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Email: ken@cornerstonecounselingservices.com
I will get back in touch with you within 24 hours. During our first session, we may continue the intake process and begin to get acquainted with each other. I will share my ideas of counseling, discuss treatment planning, and provide you with the limits of confidentiality. If by chance, you feel we are not a good fit, I can assist you in finding another counselor.
How long are the sessions?
The sessions are typically 55 minutes.
What is your approach to counseling?
The cognitive approach is what I have found to be akin to my personal being as well as it is what I have found that best help clients. What is cognitive approach? You ask. The cognitive approach to counseling looks at a way a person thinks. There are times in our lives when we have “faulty” thoughts or thoughts that just no longer work for us. The premise of cognitive approach is that when you “think” better, you will feel better, and thus you will behave better.
The connections among our mind, body, and spirit can offer a more balanced life experience for a client as well as a healthier lifestyle. When we feel free to make choices as a person; we become less anxious, depressed, and able to explore our own goals for a healthy self-actualization.
How much does counseling cost?
Fee structure is discussed in our initial phone conference. Fees are required at the time of the session and are acceptable in cash, check, or debit/credit cards.
Do you take my insurance?
I am on the panel for the following major insurance companies:
- Aetna
- Amerigroup
- BlueCross and/or BlueShield Athem / Georgia and Federal
- UnitedHealthcare - United Healthcare (UHC)
- Cigna
If you are covered by either of these insurances, you will pay designated co-pay at the time of your session and I will file the balance with your carrier.
If you are covered by another insurance company, you will be expected to pay the full fee, determined at the time of your session. I will provide you with a ‘superbill’ which you may use to file with your insurance.
To learn more about payment and fees, please do not hesitate to touch base with me.
Why do people seek counseling?
People go to counseling for many reasons. At times, unexpected changes may arise; self-exploration or personal growth may be desired. Whatever the case, I view your deciding to come to counseling is a way for you to live a better life. Counseling can help you to increase your problem-solving skills, it can provide support for you, or it can enhance your coping skills.
What can I expect in a counseling session?
During counseling sessions, it is expected that you will talk about your issues and concerns that are most pressing for you. The sessions are highly active and interactive. Some clients come to counseling once a week, once every other week, or with more time in between sessions. There are times, when clients are extreme distress and they may come to counseling more than once a week. Either way, together, we will determine what best fits your needs. I firmly believe that to get the most out of counseling, the client must do work in the session and out the session. With this said, at times, I suggest homework (for example, reading a book, trying out a new behavior, journaling, etc) for the purpose of helping the client to learn/practice new behaviors.
How can going to a counselor benefit me?
There is a great deal of benefits that you can derive from participating in counseling. As a counselor, I offer a safe, non-judgmental environment where the client can share issues and concerns that are important to the client. I am sure you will find counseling to be of great assistance to clients as they better cope with daily living issues, family concerns, work-place issues, and personal relationships. Additional benefits form counseling include:
- Improved relationships with family, friends, and colleagues
- New solutions or better coping skills
- Increased problem solving skills
- Improved self-esteem and self-confidence
- Healthier/more productive ways to live
- Ways to get “unstuck” from bad habits
What if I don’t know what my goals are from counseling?
If you are not quite sure of your counseling goals, this will be one of tasks that we will address. As a counselor, I firmly believe that clients must know where they want to go so they will get the most from the counseling sessions.
Is counseling confidential?
Generally speaking, the law protects privileged communication between a client and a counselor. I will disclose information, only when you grant written permission for me to do so. However, there are three general exceptions to this:
If a client intends to harm someone. I am required by law to inform the appropriate authorities.
If a client intends to harm him/herself. I am required by law to inform the appropriate authorities.
Suspected child/elder abuse. I am required by law to inform the appropriate authorities.
Payment Information
Payment Policy
Payment is due at the time of services.
Cancellation Policy
If you do not show up for your scheduled appointment, and you have not notified me (info@cornerstonecounselingservices.com) with at least 24 hours in advance, you will be required to pay the full cost of the time reserved.