Office Information and FAQ's

What type of people do I typically work with?

I work with adults 18 years of age and older who are typically intelligent responsible men and women. I work with people either individually or as a couple.  The majority of my clients are looking for a respectful confidential environment to talk over very personal life concerns.  I work best with and see the most improvement in clients who are sincere in wanting to help themselves.  I thoroughly enjoy working with individuals from all races, of various religious and spiritual backgrounds, and diversified walks of life. 

What are my specialties?

I practice from an integrative approach incorporating counseling methods from Cognitive-Behavioral, Existential-Humanistic, Reality, and Family System techniques.  I specialize in helping clients gain relief from unwanted emotions and behaviors, while helping them improve their interpersonal relationships.

Do I see walk-in clients or emergency clients?

This office is organized by appointment only. My policy is to give a brief phone consultation to all clients prior to the first appointment.  If we decide this is not the appropriate environment for you I will gladly provide you with a list of referrals.  I only see established clients in an emergency.

How do you know I am a therapist you can work with?

A short phone consultation without charge is provided prior to the first appointment. This gives you a chance to evaluate me and ask any needed questions about my training, background, or office procedures.  I will answer whatever questions are important to you in order for you to make an informed decision about your care.

How do I make an appointment?

The best way to make an appointment is to call me at my office Agile Mind Counseling: 423-746-2441.  I personally return all phone calls usually before the end of the day.  Sessions last for 45 minutes. Payment is expected prior to each appointment.  Sessions can be arranged on a weekly, biweekly, monthly, or as needed basis.  Initial paperwork is available for download at the Orientation link.  When you call the office you will be given a password in order to access these forms.  If you are unable to fill out the initial paperwork before your fist session please plan to arrive 30 minutes early for your first appointment. This will allow enough time to fill out necessary paperwork.  You may also request your paperwork be mailed to you in advance.

Do I take your insurance?

I am on most insurance and Employee Assistance (EAP) panels.  Counseling is typically part of your insurance benefit plan. If you are covered by insurance, as a courtesy I will bill your insurance company for you.  Deductibles or co-payments are due at the time of your appointment. Insurance bewilders most people so I will be happy to contact your insurance company and then explain to you what your policy covers.  Be sure to have your insurance card in hand when you call to make an appointment.  Some clients choose to self-pay for privacy reasons.  If you choose not to use your insurance payment is due at the beginning of each session. I will discuss the appropriate rate scale with you when you call the office.

Need to know: When you ask your insurance company to pay for your counseling they will require a psychiatric diagnosis for any treatment received.  This diagnosis is for a “mental illness”.  Once your health information is in the hands of a third party you no longer have control of where it may be passed.  Also, when you use your insurance benefit others will review the claims and other paperwork submitted by this office.  Often someone at the insurance company will be able to set the parameters of your treatment.  Most people who come into counseling are not mentally ill they are simply trying to get a handle on difficult life situations.  If you choose not to use your mental health insurance benefit and pay for treatment yourself your records will remain in this office and not be submitted for potential review of your treatment or treatment progress by a third party.

What forms of payment does this office accept?

Agile Mind Counseling accepts cash, debit, or major credit cards.

What are Agile Mind Counseling office hours?

Office hours are typically from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.  However, early, late, and Saturday appointments are available under agreed upon circumstances.

May I contact Agile Mind Counseling by e-mail?

Clients often request communicating with me by e-mail.  I limit e-mail responses to information about appointment scheduling, location of my office, and to matters related to my office policies.  Established clients have the option to sign a release to receive e-mail from this office.