FAQ

What happens in a first counseling session?
The first counseling session may be a little different from the rest of your other sessions. In the first session, you and your therapist will become more acquainted with one another and you will discuss the issues that have brought you to counseling. Your therapist may ask you some questions about your background and the goals you would like to establish for yourself. You will also go over the process of counseling and the therapist will want to answer any question you may have concerning this process. By the end of the first few sessions, there should be a plan established between your therapist and you on how you will be accomplishing these goals both in and out of counseling.

What is your cancellation policy?
We require a 24 hour notice for cancelling an appointment at no charge. We understand that emergencies arise and will try to work with you, however, a $40 fee will be charged for a late cancellation or if there is no appearance for a scheduled appointment.

Is counseling confidential?
Confidentiality is of highest priority. The therapist will not share any information that occurs in session with anyone outside of the session. No information is disclosed without prior written permission from the client. However, there are some exceptions required by law to this rule and these are listed in our HIPPA Notice of Privacy Practices that is listed on this website and provide to you when you visit our office.

The most common exceptions include the following:

  • Suspected child abuse or dependent adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
  • If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to themselves or to another person. The therapist is required to take actions to protect you and anyone else that may be in harm’s way.
  • If you plan on using your insurance or EAP benefits—in some cases, these companies require us to send them a diagnosis, goals, and how we plan on making progress towards those goals. We do not share specific details of the session with the insurance companies.

If you ever have questions or concerns about confidentiality, please be sure to ask your counselor.

How do I schedule an appointment?
You can schedule an appointment by calling the numbers listed on the Contact page of this website.

How can therapy help me?
A number of benefits are available from participating in therapy. Therapists can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping strategies for issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, grief, stress management, body image issues and creative blocks. Many people also find that counselors can be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, marriage issues, and the hassles of daily life. Therapists can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution. The benefits you obtain from therapy depend on how well you use the process and put into practice what you learn. Some of the benefits available from therapy include:

  • Attaining a better understanding of yourself and your goals
  • Developing skills for improving your relationships
  • Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy
  • Learning new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
  • Managing anger, grief, depression, and other emotional pressures
  • Improving communications and listening skills
  • Changing old behavior patterns and developing new ones
  • Discovering new ways to solve problems in your family or marriage
  • Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence

Is Counseling right for me?
Seeking out counseling is an individual choice. There are many reasons why people come to counseling. Sometimes it is to deal with long-standing psychological issues, or problems with anxiety or depression. Other times it is in response to unexpected changes in one’s life such as a divorce or work transition. Many seek the advice of counsel as they pursue their own personal exploration and growth. Working with a therapist can help provide insight, support, and new strategies for all types of life challenges. Counseling can help address many types of issues including depression, anxiety, conflict, grief, stress management, body-image issues, and general life transitions. Therapy is right for anyone who is interested in getting the most out of their life by taking responsibility, creating greater self-awareness, and working towards change in their lives.

Meet Janelle!

Meet Janelle Batta Janelle is Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Licensed Clinical Addictions Counselor, and a Licensed Independent Social Worker in the state of Ohio.

Learn more about Janelle