FAQ
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What does the counseling process look like?
Counselors do not have all the answers. Providing simple solutions and answers is not the essence of counseling. The work of counseling is a collaboration. You and your counselor will review the issues and problems that you are facing, which will lead to exploration to uncover deeper, problematic themes and factors that have contributed to your current state of life. Through processing your story, coping strategies, and relational dynamics, you and your counselor can begin to explore opportunities and possibilities for growth, healing, and change.
Counseling will sometimes be emotionally and psychologically disruptive – meaning, as we begin the work of examining all the factors that led you to your current state of being, you will likely feel challenged and uncomfortable. Everything from the pain of your past to the fears of the future can affect your present reality, and to "turn over every stone" is not always a pleasant experience. Truth is, you may feel worse before you feel better! But this is an indicator that something is happening. Counseling can be a constructively disruptive force for change and growth in your life.
Counseling sessions are usually 50-minutes and conducted on a weekly basis in order to obtain the greatest likelihood for growth. Bi-weekly sessions (or even monthly "maintenance checks") are possible after a season of weekly-based sessions has generated some satisfactory change.
Do you offer counseling from a Christian perspective?
We are Christians, and have had ten years of vocational ministry experience prior to becoming counselors. We work with clients of various backgrounds (religious, agnostic, atheistic, etc.), and our ethical obligation and overarching goal is to honor the dignity and values of each individual client and their particular therapeutic goals. Our training occurred in a clinical model of counseling that integrated psychological science and theological framework. Our personal worldview and philosophy of counseling guides us to treat every client with compassion, kindness, and dignity. If you are a person who values spirituality, that can be included in therapy as much as you would like. If you are a someone who wishes not to discuss spiritual matters, that will be respected. We are here to serve your needs and goals.
How long does counseling last?
There is no one answer to this question. Every client's situation, problems, relational dynamics, and story is unique. After the first session or two, your counselor can provide an educated guess on the amount of time needed to see growth and attain your goals. While one individual may need counseling for a few months, a married couple may need up to a year or more, and a different individual may need longer. There is no formula or template for length of therapy, but on average it lasts 6-9 months.
What is your general availability/office hours?
Counselors may be able to meet mornings, afternoons, or (some) evenings, Monday–Friday. However, due to constantly changing counselor availability, some days/times may not be available. We will do whatever we can to reasonably accommodate your schedule.
How do I set up an appointment?
You can visit the Client Portal page and request an appointment there. You may also visit the Contact page to email our counselors directly with any questions you might have. We will do our best to respond to you within 48 hours. Please remember that sensitive information should only be shared in person.
What if I need to cancel/reschedule an appointment?
You may cancel/reschedule your appointment by emailing or calling your therapist directly. Please remember to cancel or reschedule at least 24 hours in advance. You will be responsible for the entire fee if request to cancel is not received with 24 hours notice. This is necessary because a time commitment has been made to you and that time has been held exclusively for you.
Who can I contact when I am dealing with an emergency?
For non-emergency questions or concerns, your counselor can be contacted via email. If you are experiencing an emergency or have an immediate need, please call the 24-hour hotline at 205-323-7777 or 1-800-273-8255. If you are experiencing a medical emergency or feel in danger, please call 911 or go to your local emergency room.
How much does counseling cost?
The cost per 50-minute session is $125 which follows market rates for our credentials and experience level and allows us to sustain a consistent quality of care. We believe it is important for you to invest in your healing in much the same way you invest in other areas of your life. Currently, we are accepting payment by credit card, cash, check, or Venmo.
Do you accept insurance?
We are not an in-network provider for any insurance company, but we can provide a superbill that is compliant with all major insurance companies for reimbursement as an out-of-network provider upon request. You may call your insurance company to see if you are covered for out-of-network services.
Why don't you take insurance?
We realize that out-of-pocket counseling can be a barrier for some, and it is our goal to work with you and make counseling as accessible as possible. Among other reasons, we feel it is in your best interest to not have the requirement from insurance companies to label you with a diagnosis upon first meeting you, nor to work under the constraints of session limits, types of therapies used, etc. We much rather work organically with you as an unique individual to come up with your care plan collaboratively.
We want to work with motivated clients who value our time together, and while the financial cost of therapy is high, it is our hope that you find our work together to be worth it.
Do you offer reduced fees for those in financial need?
We do not want finances to keep you from getting the help you need. As a result, we may offer a fee reduction on a limited basis. If you need financial assistance, we can talk through that with you. Your counselor can also help you think through ways you can seek assistance to pay for counseling like asking your church or support system to invest in your healing process.
Where are you located?
Address:
300 Century Park South, Suite 201, Birmingham, AL 35226
Directions:
Turn off of Hackberry Road at the 300 / 400 arrow sign, turn left when you reach the 300 building and drive around to the back of the building. Park there, and the office is on the second level – first door to the right of the stairs.
Groundwork Counseling is currently sharing office space with two other counseling practices: Over the Mountain and Restoring Hope. Those names will be on the office door.