Frequently Asked Questions

I would be glad to give you a free 15 minute consultation with no obligation.  We are here to answer your questions, so that you can make an informed decision.   

In the first session, we may finish up paperwork if I have not already received it and use the time to talk about why you are seeking counseling.  We will get to know one another and address any questions that you have.  After that, I encourage you to be yourself and the rest will unfold as we work together to determine your therapy plan.  

In some cases, there are programs or community services that can help you pay for some or all of your counseling services with Serene Space Counseling.  I also offer a sliding scale rate and if you qualify, I may be able to reduce the cost of your sessions.  Additionally, some employers will assist with counseling expenses through Employee Assistance Programs (EAP).  I encourage you to call me to discuss your individual situation to see if we can find a solution. If for any reason I am not able to provide services, I will provide you with information on how to locate services in your community.  

At this time we do not offer psychological and diagnostic testing services.

However, I can recommend other counseling providers that offer these services.  

I will discuss the limits to confidentiality with you in your first appointment. To summarize, I would be obligated to report any information you report that indicates you have an active plan to hurt yourself or others.  This includes abuse of children, adults, elderly, and animals.   Additionally, if you report that you are being abused or not in a safe living environment, I am required to report this information.  

Minors - While minors cannot consent or participate in counseling without a parent's consent, I encourage families to consider that their teen will be more open to counseling if they know that they can share their inner most thoughts in a trusting environment.  As stated above, you can be sure that if there are any concerns that your teen will harm themselves or others you will be informed.  

Suggestions for parents:

1.  Be open with your teen about your need-to-know information.  Even if they don't agree, you have been honest and that helps your teen trust and know what to expect.  

2.  Negotiate with your teen how to exchange information regarding counseling. Maybe they want to be the one to share or will invite you to a future session once they have become comfortable with the process.  

3.  Depending on the teen, directly after a session, try not ask about the session. Most teens are still processing feelings and information, plus counseling is hard work.  You may find that they just want some quiet time.   If you feel worried, let them know you are here for them if they need anything.  

If you are in crisis and need immediate help, dial 911.  

Additional Resources:

Texas Suicide Hotlines

http://www.suicide.org/hotlines/texas-suicide-hotlines.html

The National Suicide Prevention Hotline

1-800-273-8255 - Press 2 for Spanish

Nacional de Prevención del suicidio

1-888-628-9454

Veterans Crisis Hotline 

1-800-273-8255 (Press 1)

LGBT Youth Suicide Hotline: 

1-866-4-U-TREVOR

National Domestic Violence Hotline

1-800-799-7233

Crisis Text Line 

Text HOME to 741741

Lifeline options for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

TTY users use your preferred relay service or Dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255

Note:  Every community has a local mental health authority. Some by County and others by Region.  For example, Tri-County MHMR.  These health authorities offer free mental health services that can be easily found in a google search or you can click on this brochure for additional information:

https://www.tdcj.texas.gov/documents/rid/TCOOMMI_COC_After_Care_Brochure.pdf