Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is an LPCC?
A: LPCC stands for Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. An LPCC is a health professional who provides clinical counseling services to individuals, couples, families, and groups. LPCCs are trained to diagnose and treat mental health disorders, as well as provide therapeutic interventions. They collaborate with clients to develop personalized treatment plans, help clients explore their thoughts and emotions, develop coping strategies, promote personal growth, and support overall mental and emotional well-being. They may specialize in various areas such as trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and neurodiversity. The specific requirements for obtaining an LPCC license may vary by jurisdiction, but generally, individuals must complete a master’s or doctoral degree in a counseling-related field. They must also accumulate a certain number of hours under a licensed supervisor, in Ohio the requirement is two years and 3000 hours of post-graduate experience. They then must pass a board-certified licensure exam. LPCCs typically adhere to ethical standards and regulations set by their respective licensing board. LPCCs work in diverse setting including, private practice, community mental health centers, hospitals, schools, and other healthcare facilities.
Q: Do you offer teletherapy services?
A: Yes. All counseling services are provided through HIPAA compliant video conferencing.
Q: How long do sessions last?
A: Typically, individual counseling sessions last 50 minutes. Initial assessments usually last 60-90 minutes. I offer 25-minute half sessions based on client needs. These are typically a check-in, in-between regularly scheduled sessions. Clients may also request half sessions to reduce the cost of therapy. For clients who need extended session, I offer a 90-minute session as well.
Q: Do you offer evening and weekend appointments?
A: On a limited basis accommodation for clients who need an evening or weekend appointment can be made. Please call to discuss your specific needs.
Q: Do you accept insurance?
A: We do not accept insurance but can provide you with an invoice to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement. It is important before you start therapy to check with your insurance company to determine what, if anything, they will cover for out-of-pocket expenses. Some clients may prefer an out-of-pocket payment for privacy reasons. Insurance companies have the right to request information from therapists including progress notes, treatment plans, assessments, etc. Insurance companies can limit treatment options based on this personal information. We accept most major credit cards and payment from HSA accounts.
Q: How do I pay for my sessions?
A: Payments are made at the conclusion of each session and are processed online through the client portal. You will be given access to the client portal after scheduling your first session.
Q: How can I change my billing/payment method?
A: To ensure the privacy and security of your information, updating your payment can be done by calling during regular business hours, Mon-Thurs from 10:00 am–6:00 pm.
Q: What if I can’t make it to a session?
A: If you are unable to attend therapy, you must contact your Provider before your session. Otherwise, you may subject to fees outlined in your fee agreement.
Q: Do you offer reduced rates?
A: There are a set number of sliding fee scale openings per month. These are considered on an individual basis. Please call, email, or text if you would like more information.
Q: What areas do you specialize in?
A: Autism, anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, trauma, and addiction.
Q: What modalities or approaches do you use?
A: Neurodiversity affirming practices centered around trauma informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy strategies with a heavy focus on self-acceptance, strengths-based, self-advocacy, and building supports.
Q: Do you offer Autism evaluations?
A: No. As an LPCC, I am trained in diagnosis and can help provide information for a formal diagnosis as a part of a multidisciplinary team. I can provide referrals if a formal diagnosis is what you are seeking.
Q: What if I don’t yet have an autism diagnosis, can I still receive therapy?
A: Yes. A formal autism diagnosis is not required to start counseling, in fact, many neurodivergent individuals are self-diagnosed.
Q: How do I book an appointment?
A: Contact me at marciew@affirmingautism.com or by phone or text at 330.888.9792 to schedule your first appointment.
If you have additional questions or would like to schedule a free 15-minute consultation, call/text: 330.888.9792.