Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Thervo.
How much does counseling cost?
Counseling costs$100 to $250 per session if not covered by insurance, depending on your location, type of counseling, and the counselor's specialty. Prices are on the high end of the range in major metropolitan areas like New York and San Francisco. The average cost of counseling with insurance is $20 to $60 per session for the copay.
Online counseling costs$50 to $110 per week through websites that offer a membership plan. Plans on the lower end of the price range are typically limited to support via text or email messaging only, while plans at the higher end of the range include scheduled video sessions with a licensed counselor or therapist.
Marriage counseling costs$120 to $250 per session for in-person therapy or $90 to $230 per session for online therapy.
Can you use an HSA or FSA for counseling?
You can only use your HSA or FSA for counseling if you have a billable diagnosis—such as depression or bipolar disorder—and the therapy is deemed medically necessary. You can't use your HSA or FSA for marriage or family counseling, grief counseling, or therapy for stress management.
What are the types of counselors?
Counselors have a master's degree in psychology and are trained and licensed to practice psychotherapy. A counselor may be licensed or certified in a specific area:
Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC)
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs)
Licensed Practicing Counselor (LPC)
Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC)
Registered Child Therapist RPT)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
What does a counselor do?
A counselor can help you navigate challenging life situations, understand your emotions, strengthen your self-esteem, and improve your communication and coping skills. They provide support through difficult times and guide you in making the necessary changes in thinking and behavior to improve your mental and emotional health.
Counselors can help you with a variety of problems:
Depression and mood changes
Marriage and relationship problems
Grief or loss
Anxiety, stress, and panic attacks
Self-esteem and body image concerns
Eating disorders
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Anger management
Addiction
Gender or sexual identity concerns
Can counselors prescribe medication?
Counselors are licensed psychologists but not medical doctors, and in most parts of the U.S. they are not allowed to prescribe medication. Only Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Louisiana, and New Mexico allow counselors to prescribe medication, and counselors in these states must complete additional psychopharmacology training and certification.
In the rest of the U.S., only a medical doctor can prescribe medication. Psychiatrists are medical doctors and can prescribe medication, but they typically do not provide talk therapy or counseling services.
Can counselors diagnose ADHD, autism, or other mental health conditions?
A licensed counselor can give a mental health diagnosis in all states except Indiana and Maine. However, the counselor must refer clients to a psychiatrist or other medical doctor if the condition requires medication. Consult a counselor near you if you have concerns about ADHD, anxiety, depression, autism, bipolar disorder, or other mental health conditions.
How can I choose the best counselor near me?
When searching for a counselor, it's important to choose one who makes you feel comfortable, safe, and respected. Follow these tips to find the best counselor for you:
If you have a specific concern—such as depression, stress, or relationship issues—look for counselors who specialize in that area.
Ask your medical provider for recommendations.
Read reviews from other clients on Thervo and Google.
Confirm the counselor accepts your insurance or offers a sliding-scale rate.
Ask about telemedicine and virtual visit options.
Schedule an initial consultation to make sure you're happy with the counselor's communication style and empathy.
What questions should I ask counselors?
Ask these questions to help you choose a counselor who will help you achieve the best results:
How long have you been practicing, and what are your certifications?
What areas of counseling do you specialize in?
What is your philosophy as a counselor?
What therapeutic approaches do you typically use?
What does a typical session look like?
Are you more directive or guiding as a counselor?
Do you give homework or reading assignments?
Do you offer virtual / telemedicine appointments?
Do you accept my insurance? Do you bill the insurance company directly?
Do you offer sliding-scale rates for clients without insurance?
Reviews for Waco counselors
Recent success stories from people in the Waco area.
Malaika A.
She is a great listener and will have you thinking about everything said and analyzing what is going on within. Since talking to her I have definitely noticed great change within myself. I would definitely recommend speaking to her about anything you are going through.
HERstory Creations inc
Shea M.
I loved the knowledge Dr. Fred was able to share with me as it pertains to his energy work. I felt educated and informed after my first session and felt empowered moving forward in whatever direction that meant for me. It is clear he is truly a student of his work and will continue his research to help those searching for an enriched life.
Energy Rich Living
Donna S.
This was one of the best massages I have ever received! I honestly felt so relaxed afterwards and all of my tension that I had built up with work and the stresses of life were totally gone by the end of the massage! I completely recommend getting a massage with this therapist! I even referred my husband to him and was given my next massage at half-price for the referral! Best deal ever!!! And best of all, he comes to you at your home, office, or hotel, basically any place that is private and has enough space to set up his massage table he will accommodate and work with you to make it as easy as possible for you!
HRS Massage
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