What to Know Before Your First Therapy Appointment

Problems are a part of living. It is only natural to try to solve one's own problems, perhaps with the help of friends or family. However, when a person is involved in a problem, it is difficult to be objective. Today, most people realize that seeking professional help is not an admission of failure but a sensible recognition that their situation requires professional help. The initial appointment is generally arranged for the purpose of evaluating the particular problem or situation. If the problem involves a couple or a family, all parties are encouraged to attend the first session but may be seen separately on succeeding visits. The evaluation may include psychological testing as an aid in developing a treatment plan.

Counseling Associates offers a wide array of options to meet any and all of your mental health needs. We offer testing and assessments for many different mental health concerns you or a loved one may be experiencing. We also offer counseling for marriage and family, behavior therapy, depression, anxiety/stress, grief and loss, and anger issues, just to name a few. If you have any concerns at all regarding your mental health, we would be more than happy to work with you.

We offer chemical dependency assessments, which are done on-site and are available by appointment. We offer one-to-one, chemical dependency treatment and also outpatient group therapy. We recognize that there can be a link between substance use and mental health, and because of that link, we offer mental health and chemical dependency treatment.

We accept most insurance, including Medical Assistance. We suggest you contact your insurance provider to verify on your policy's coverage. In most cases, insurance will cover 80% of allowable charges minus the deductible and co-pays. We also participate in Employee Assistance Programs. We also accept Medical Assistance. We are a primary provider for BC/BS/Blue Plus of Minnesota.

Short-term treatment of ten sessions or less is often sufficient for our clients. Although some problems may take longer to resolve, your therapist will make every effort to facilitate your treatment. Sessions are generally 50 minutes to 1 hour long and are usually scheduled weekly.