FAQs
Who is counseling for?
Everyone! At Distinctive Counseling, we encourage all persons, regardless of their age, gender, history, or other personal experiences to pursue counseling services. We offer services for children, teenagers, adults, families, couples, LGBTQIA+, veterans, trauma and abuse victims, greiving individuals, and many, many more.
I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?
Not at all. It takes strength to ask for help when you need it and have the courage to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. In your work with one of our counselors, you will identify your strengths and explore how to implement them to reduce the influence of the problems you are facing.
What’s the difference between talking to a counselor or my best friend or family?
The difference is between someone who can do something, and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way – teach you different skills, gain new perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectation, and help you learn about yourself. Furthermore, counseling is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing your business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion and you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better, you might start avoiding that person so that you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.
Couldn’t I just take medication?
Medication can be effective, but it alone cannot solve all issues. Sometimes medication is needed in conjunction with counseling.
Can you prescribe me medication?
Unfortunately, we do not offer medication prescription services at this time. You will need to locate or ask your doctor to refer you to a psychiatrist who can provide that service.
How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?
Your work with a Distinctive counselor is designed to explore and unpack the problems you are experiencing. Your counselor will work with you to expand on your strengths to help you accomplish your personal therapy goals. Because each person has different goals and intentions, the amount of work and time spent in counseling will vary depending on the individual. Our counselors tailor their therapeutic approach to your specific needs.
How long will it take? How often do I have to attend?
Unfortunately, it is not possible to answer this in a general FAQ. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them, and the length of time counseling can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek counseling in the first place. Our counselors tailor their therapeutic approach to the individual, not to a schedule. They work with you in your own time and your own way to overcome the issues you are seeking help with.
I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?
We are so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your counseling sessions! Your active participation during sessions and continued dedication to your personal growth will be crucial to your success.
When do you offer counseling appointments?
Availability varies by individual counselor. Our team is comprised of licensed clinicians, associate clinicians, and student interns, all with separate and individual schedules. Our clinicians are generally available daily during business hours, with the exception of major holidays, weather events, training events, or other preventing circumstances. Some clinicians offer after-hours sessions and weekend scheduling. Please call to verify scheduling availabilities or speak with your clinician.
How much does it cost?
Prices vary depending on the type of services requested, insurance coverage, length of appointment, late cancellation fees, the counselor you choose to see, etcetera.
Isn’t counseling expensive? What if I can’t afford it?
If you are worried you cannot afford counseling services, rest assured! We offer several affordable private pay or out-of-pocket options with our licensed clinicians, master’s-level associates, and student counselors-in-training. Please call to verify pricing and availability.
How do I pay for sessions?
We currently only accept major credit/debit cards through our automated system, IvyPay. IvyPay is a secure, HIPAA-compliant way to pay for your counseling services so that you can spend more time in a session focusing on your needs.
Which insurance providers do you accept?
We currently accept a broad range of insurance providers, including Driscoll Children’s Health Plan, Superior Medicaid, Texas Medicaid, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, and United Healthcare.
What if I need to cancel my appointment?
If you are unable to attend your session for any reason, please contact the main office via call, text, or email at least 24 hours prior to your appointment, or contact your clinician directly. Failure to notify prior to the 24-hour window may result in a late cancellation fee.
I am ready for counseling! How do I sign up for services?
Visit our Contact page to fill out our Appointment Request Form. You can enter your contact information, a description of your experience and needs, and insurance information all in a single, easy-to-fill-out form in under 5 minutes. You should hear back from one of our team members within 1-2 business days of submission.
Where are you located? How can I contact Distinctive Counseling?
Our physical address is located at:
4646 Corona Drive, Suites 158 & 216
Corpus Christi, Texas, 78411
We can be reached during the week during normal business hours via phone call or text at (361)547-5541 or via email at [email protected].
Emergencies:
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call:
911 – or go to your local emergency room to receive help
Crisis Line: 888-767-4493
24/7 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
Crisis Text Line: text Hello to 741741