FAQ

When should I seek help?

You know yourself better than anyone. If you are feeling helpless, overwhelmed, stressed, experiencing changes in mood, sleep, appetite and interests, or feeling as if something just isn't "right", these can be signs of emotional and psychological distress that may not get better on their own. Now is the time to meet with an experienced professional to evaluate your situation and explore your options. Getting help early can be more beneficial than waiting. We are here to help you feel and function better, so contact us today!

How can therapy help me?

Working with a therapist can provide insight, support, new strategies and solutions for all types of life challenges. Therapy can address many types of issues that are preventing you from feeling and being your best. We have twenty five years of counseling experience working with people of all ages, lifestyles and backgrounds. Let us help you live the life you deserve.

I can usually handle my problems. Do I really need to see a counselor?

The fact you can handle your problems indicates you have strength and resources. Seeking out extra support is healthy and shows you are willing to make a commitment to change. Counseling helps people figure out solutions to all sorts of problems, situations or challenges they may be facing. Working with an experienced counselor can offer multiple choices and solutions to your situation. We look forward to working with you.

What types of problems do you treat?

With over twenty five years of counseling experience, we can offer support for many types of problem that is causing you emotional or psychological distress. When you call us for an appointment, we will briefly review your situation and determine how we can be of help to you.

We all have stress-why would I seek help for that?

The consequences of stress affect not only your individual well being, but your relationships, your work and your health. Learning and practicing stress management skills is an investment that will last a lifetime.

What does it matter if a therapist doesn't have a lot of experience?

Sometimes it takes years before a person will reach out for help. You have made an important decision to seek support. Working with an experienced therapist has multiple advantages. Underlying and core issues are quickly identified resulting in implementing meaningful and effective strategies. Treatment can be completed sooner, usually with less stress involved. Clients often report better satisfaction with their counseling experience after working with an experienced therapist. In Northwest Arkansas, a lot of providers are recent graduates with little to no experience in the counseling profession. When seeking a therapist, ask about their professional history and the kind of work experience and skills they have mastered.

How do I contact your office?

Call us at 479-799-5577 and we can discuss your current situation and concerns. We do our best to answer all calls in person, but occasionally we may be unavailable. If you leave a voice message, we will return your call promptly. If you are experiencing a life threatening situation, do not leave a phone message-call 911 or go to the closest Emergency Room. If you prefer to send an email with any questions, you may do so at info@counselingnwa.com

What can I expect when I come for my first session?

Togther we will review our proceduers and practices, so you are informed of what to expect during our sessions. There is a brief questionnaire to complete about yourself and then we will begin to focus on what matters to you and the goals you are seeking. It is natural to feel a bit anxious about your first session, particularly if you have no experience with counseling. Your well being is always a priority to us. You will always be treated in a respectful and professional manner.

Is therapy confidential?

In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and psychotherapist. No information is disclosed without prior written permission from the client. However, there are some rare exceptions required by law to this rule. These exceptions will be reviewed at your first appointment.

How often will I need to come to counseling and how long will my session last?

For most people, weekly counseling is sufficient and allows time between sessions to process and/or practice session work. Since your treatment is centered on your needs, we will evaluate the frequency throughout the course of treatment. Sessions last approximately one hour.

How long will I need to be in counseling?

There really isn't a specific time frame for counseling as it is based on your needs, progress and outcomes. For some, a few sessions can adequately address their concerns, while for others with long-standing issues, problems with depression and anxiety, trauma, or marital conflicts, the time frame may be longer. We want you to leave every session feeling as though you gained something---be it a new skill, knowledge or awareness about yourself.

Do you work with children?

We work with youth approximately 11 years and older.

What type of "therapy" do you use?

Deanna uses a holistic therapeutic approach that integrates research supported traditional and non traditional therapies. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy and Ericksonian Hypnosis are primarily used. Our work embraces the whole person-body, mind and spirt.

Do you testify in court?

No, we do not testify in court. We will be happy to assist you with a referral.

The court told me to get counseling, will you work with me?

Yes. However, we do not testify in court and there are extra charges for preparing reports for the court.

Can you help me quit smoking?

YES! We offer two very effective methods to stop smoking. One way is through hypnosis. If you are not interested in hypnosis, we offer an intensive 8 session program that will give you the tools, support and behavior changes resulting in kicking the tobacco habit for good. Many years ago, our program director Bill Lisk, was trained in "Smoke Stoppers", a smoking cessation program from the National Center for Health Promotions. Bill has been helping people become tobacco free for many years and looks forward to helping you. You will proudly be able to tell your family and friends, "I Quit for Life!"

How much do your services cost?

The fees at Professional Counseling Services are very competitive with other private providers in Northwest Arkansas. Our fee is $125 per session. Special group fees are $25 per session. The "I Quit for Life" smoking cessation program cost $350. (You will immediately begin saving money when you stop smoking and approximately $2000 a year!))

How are services paid?

Cash, credit cards and checks are accepted. After your payment is processed, you will receive a receipt.

Will my insurance pay for services?

Services may be covered in full, or in part, by your health insurance plan. We are an in-network provider for BCBS. It is your responsibility to call your insurance provider and check your coverage. If you need assistance with the types of questions to ask your insurance provider, we will gladly assist.

How do I use my insurance with Professional Counseling Services?

If you want to use your BCBS insurance, we will need a copy of the card and verification of benefits. We will file the insurance claim on your behalf. Any co payments are due at the time of service. If you are using another insurance carrier, you will pay the fee and then be given a completed claim form that you may file with your insurance requesting reimbursement be paid to you..

Why would I consider paying for my services rather than using my insurance?

There are numerous advantages to paying for services privately. For example, your treatment will be individualized based upon YOUR needs and preferences, along with the recommendations of the therapist- not what the insurance company dictates. Also there is no risk of your services being limited or terminated too soon due to insurance decisions. There is complete assurance that your services are confidential. Your privacy will be protected as no one outside of our office will have access to your confidential information. Insurance company's require a diagnosis that remains permanently on your medical record. Private pay never requires assigning a diagnosis in order to receive services.

How are therapy rates determined?

With any profession, there are overhead costs involved in operating a business. As a therapist, there are significant costs that went into post graduate education and training. There are additional costs involved in getting and maintaining a professional license. You may have noticed that rates therapists charge range from $25 to over $200 an hour. While there is truth to the saying "you get what you pay for", there is a misconception that the higher the rate, the better the therapist or therapy. In reality, people seeking professional services want a therapist who has experience that will help them. Deanna has over twenty three years of experience in the counseling profession and has set a rate she believes is competitive and affordable.

What appointment times do you offer?

Appointments are available Monday through Friday. We offer evening appointments and will do our best to accommodate your schedule. Our scheduling is set up in such a way you will not feel rushed through your session.

Where is the office located?

Our office is conveniently located to serve all of NW Arkansas and is easily accessible. We are located in HarBer Meadows at exit 72 just off of highway 412 (West Sunset) and I-540. The office address is 6801 Isaac Orchard's Rd, Springdale AR 72762. Our second floor office is accessible by elevator.