Your Questions Answered | EXODUS Counseling

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a typical counseling session last?

The average counseling session lasts around 53 minutes. Couples or family sessions can be up to 1.5 to 2 hours depending on the clients’ needs and clinician preference.

How frequently should I attend counseling sessions?

Consistency is important to retain insight and to apply lessons in your life. On average, you’d begin with one session a week and adjust up or down as you progress.

What qualifications and credentials do counselors have?

All practitioners providing mental health services in the state of Tennessee are required to be licensed through the Board for Licensed Professional Counselors, Licensed Marital and Family Therapists, and Licensed Clinical Pastoral Therapists. Past credentials and licensure, a clinician’s qualifications depend on their own discipline, focus, and specialties. At EXODUS, we invest greatly in each of our counselors so we can provide increasingly better care for our clients.

The requirements for licensure can be found on the board's website: Professional Counselors & Therapists (tn.gov).

Is counseling confidential?

Yes.

Confidentiality is a cornerstone of the mental health profession and helps to create a safe environment where clients can share their authentic thoughts and feelings about their lives. All counselors and mental health professionals are privileged communicators, meaning that they are required by law to keep the confidentiality of their clients.

There are some exceptions, and these generally have to do with suicidal and homicidal thoughts or behaviors, as well as certain types of abuse that are disclosed in and out of session. More information on how mental health professionals treat confidentiality can be found in the American Counseling Association's “Code of Ethics.”

How much does counseling or therapy cost, and do you accept insurance?

EXODUS is currently a self pay organization in order to provide better care and do more good for our community. This grants our clients complete security, privacy, and control. Please see our pricing page for more info.

Can I choose the gender/age of my counselor?

Yes, absolutely. When looking for a counselor, consider who you feel most comfortable around and talking to. The age or gender of a counselor can significantly influence how you participate. That being said, you might be surprised by who works well for you, which is why it's important to be open to changing counselors if needed.

Can couples or families attend counseling together?

Certainly! Typically, these kinds of sessions are most effective when categorized under their respective types—either couples counseling or family counseling—rather than having a partner or family members join an individual's session. This approach ensures that the therapeutic relationship remains intact and is established with all members present from the beginning.

What is the cancellation/no show policy for counseling sessions?

We understand life gets in the way and schedules change. There’s absolutely no charge to reschedule or cancel a session as long as a 24 prior notice is given. For last minute cancellations taking place within 24 hours of your appointment, there is a $35 fee.

What should I expect in the first counseling session?

Your first session is arguably the most important for establishing your relationship with your counselor. This session is about getting to know you. You might also be nervous or a little anxious about speaking or confiding in someone, which is completely normal. Those feelings usually transform into comfort and familiarity as you get to know your counselor and as they get to know you.

What should I expect as counseling continues?

As you continue in your sessions and actively apply what you've learned, your counselor will guide you in making progress. Ideally, you'll find it easier to navigate your particular circumstances, have more peace or clarity, understand yourself and possibly your struggles better, and generally feel as if there's been an improvement in yourself or your life. It's important to remember that counseling can be a difficult process, and what constitutes "improvement" is very dependent on your particular circumstances and how you participate in your self-growth.

How do I know when counseling has been successful, and if it’s time to end?

One of the most important and difficult parts of counseling is its conclusion. This is often due to the specifics of each person's life. Since no two people are identical, having a clear idea of what constitutes success is different for everyone. Sometimes it's obvious, other times it's subtle. Ultimately, if you feel as though counseling has helped, or is not working anymore, you’re probably right.

Sometimes counseling begins with a clear objective, but over time it expands to cover many other facets of life. If your counseling experience has been centered around treating a particular diagnosis or disorder, it might have a clear conclusion, but otherwise, there’s nothing wrong with using counseling on an ongoing basis indefinitely.

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