Frequently Asked Questions
People who seek out therapy frequently ask questions designed to assist them in optimizing their therapy experience. The following Therapy FAQ's answer some of the most common questions.

What is therapy?
We provide professional psychotherapy services in the comfort and convenience of a confidential, state-certified mental health clinic. Therapy experiences differ from therapist to therapist. However, in general, therapy is a professional relationship between a client and therapist designed to alleviate turmoil or distress. The goal of therapy is to promote healthy living and help clients make the most of their life.

How long will therapy take?
You can expect sessions to last about 45-50 minutes, although couple and family therapy may last longer. Depending on the situation, appointments may be set up weekly, bimonthly, or on a monthly basis.

You will be setting goals and designing a plan of treatment jointly with your counselor. You are free to discontinue counseling at any time. However, it is important to tell your counselor that you wish to terminate services.

If for any reason you are uncomfortable or feel your needs are not being met, we invite you to discuss these concerns with your counselor or another staff member.

What does confidentiality really mean?
Your therapist, and any staff member within this clinic, has a legal, ethical, and professional responsibility to abide by state and federal regulations designed to prevent disclosure of any information that could identify you, unless:

• You sign a consent to release or obtain information.
• A court order mandates the release of information.
• You commit or threaten to commit a crime which could cause harm to yourself or another individual.

If there is suspicion of physical, sexual, or extreme emotional abuse of a minor, the law mandates a report to local authorities.

In an emergency situation, medical personnel may be informed of pertinent information or qualified personnel for program evaluation and supervision.

With few exceptions, biological parents have legal access to information about their minor children unless the child specifically denies the parent access to the child's treatment record.

What if a crisis should occur after hours, on a holiday, or I can't reach my counselor?
If a crisis occurs after normal business hours, an on-call therapist is available. However, this does not guarantee your counselor will be available to consult with you. Our receptionist or answering service will attempt to reach your counselor, and if able, your conselor will talk with you as soon as possible.

If your counselor cannot be reached, you may be able to consult with another counselor in our agency. In the rare event that all our counselors are unavailable for consultation, crisis intervention services available through the following counties:

Crisis Intervention Services
Outagamie County · 920-731-3211
Winnebago County · 920-722-7707
Waupaca County · 800-242-0311
Calument County · 920-849-9317

The above numbers will provide you with a trained counselor who will speak with you by phone. If you feel the need for immediate care, St. Elizabeth Hospital (920) 738-2100 and Theda Clark Medical Center (920) 729-2060 have emergency room coverage and on-call psychiatrists who can assess or admit a client to the hospital, if necessary.

What is the fee for services?
Fees vary depending on the type of service provided and the counselor who provides that service. Individual and family therapy sessions usually last 45-50 minutes. Intake appointments are usually 90 minutes. Psychological testing, court/legal consultation, or expert testimony require a separate fee agreement.

Do you accept insurance?
Yes. However, you are responsible for understanding your coverage and benefits available. This information can usually be obtained by contacting your insurance company. Their phone number is usually listed on your health insurance card. You can also contact your personnel office at work, or consult your benefits handbook.

Our staff will submit insurance claims for your convenience, and benefits will be sent directly to us. You must inform us of any insurance changes. A monthly payment is expected for any services insurance does not cover. Unless otherwise ordered by the Court, a single/divorced parent bringing a minor child for services is considered the "responsible party" and is responsible for payment.

What about other payment plans?
If you do not have insurance or choose not to utilize your insurance benefits, you will be responsible for payment.

There is a 10% discount for services which are paid with cash, check, or credit card on the date service is provided.

Monthly billing statements with outstanding balances are mailed to your home and a monthly payment is expected. There is a $20.00 fee for any checks returned by the bank for insufficient funds.

Do you accept credit cards?
Yes. Visa and Mastercard payments are available for your convenience.