Frequently Asked Questions About Couples or Individual Counseling in Wilmington, NC

FAQs about counseling in Wilmington, NC at Soulshine Counseling, PLLC

Who knew when you started googling find a therapist near me that you would’ve find so many options, and be left with SO many questions? I am here to help!

How do counseling sessions typically last?

50-minute session.

What happens during the first counseling session?

The first 1-3 sessions, we will do a thorough history and establish specific goals for your therapy. The next 3-4 sessions, we will develop a tool kit for dealing with the current stressors that brought you to counseling. In the last part of therapy, we will do the deep diving work to help heal the roots of problems that brought you to counseling.

How often will I need to come to counseling?

I have found that meeting weekly improve clients’ progress toward their goals. For that reason, I meet with clients weekly. I will establish a set to time to meet each week and that will be our reoccurring weekly appointment.

How long will I need to come to counseling?

The average person takes about 9 months to reach and maintain their optimal level of wellness, although it is difficult to predict how long therapy will take until we begin working together. Typically, clients commit to counseling for 6 months and progress is measured monthly.

How much do sessions cost?

My fee is $225 for an initial assessments, and $200 for a 53-minute individual and/or couples counseling session.

Are sessions covered by my insurance?

I am currently credentialed with BlueCross & BlueShield of NC (BCBS of NC), Aetna, MedCost, and Carolina Behavioral Health Alliance (CBHA). I would be considered as an out-of-network (OON) provider for any other insurance.

How do I seek reimbursement from my out-of-network insurance company?

I will be happy to provide you a Superbill to submit to your insurance for reimbursement using your out-of-network (OON) benefits for counseling if needed.

Questions to ask my health insurance provider regarding my out-of-network (OON) benefits?

Do I have out-of-network (OON) mental health benefits?
Are services rendered by a licensed clinical mental health counselor covered? My license in the state of NC is A16327 with the North Carolina Board of Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors.
Is any pre-approval required before obtaining out-of-network (OON) mental health services in order to be reimbursed?
If I have out-of-network (OON) benefits, will I be reimbursed the full amount I paid or a portion?
Do I have a deductible, and if so, what is it?

When is payment due?

Payment for your session is collected at or before the time of service via a credit or debit card. The electronic health records system (EHR) I use is Therapy Notes which securely stores a debit or credit card on file so you will not have to take time for payment during your session. I do not bill for services, or carry account balances.

Do you have evening and weekend appointments available?

I offer appointments Wednesday, Thursday and Friday between 11:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.

Where do sessions take place?

Sessions take place in person in my office located at midtown Wilmington in the Oak Park Offices, at 4701 Wrightsville Avenue, Suite 3-201. Additionally, I offer a secure HIPAA compliant platform for those seeking online telehealth/video counseling sessions.

What is your cancellation policy?

We have a preferred 48-hour cancellation policy, but we understand that is not always possible because, well…“life happens.” However, we do have a very firm 24-hour cancellation policy, so if you need to cancel for any reason, make sure you provide us a 24-hour notice to avoid the late cancellation fee which is $100. We offer video sessions in case something happens last minute which prevents you from coming to your appointment.

If I am ready to make an appointment, how do I get started?

The best way to schedule your free 15-minute consult with me is though my website here.

I know it can feel like a big step to call a counselor, but I’ll make it easy. We’ll spend 15-minutes on the phone and I’ll let you know how or if I can help. If I am not the right person, I’ll do my best to get you to the right person.

Contact me here to schedule your free 15-minute phone consultation for counseling in Wilmington, NC.