Licensure: What is an LPC? an LPC-Associate? an LCDC?
A licensed professional counselor (LPC) is a mental health professional who provides professional therapeutic services to individuals and groups that involves the application of mental health, psychotherapeutic, and human development principles to facilitate adjustment and development throughout life. Services may include individual counseling, group counseling, marriage counseling, family counseling, chemical dependency counseling, rehabilitation counseling, education counseling, career development counseling, sexual issues counseling, psychotherapy, play therapy, diagnostic assessment, hypnotherapy, expressive therapies, biofeedback, and related services.*
An LPC in the state of Texas holds at least a master's degree in counseling or a counseling-related field; has received a passing score on both a jurisprudence exam and the National Counselor Examination for Licensure and Certification; and has completed 3,000 hours of supervised experience in the field of professional counseling. More information about professional counselors can be found on the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council’s website.
A licensed chemical dependency counselor (LCDC) is a mental health professional who assists individuals or groups to develop an understanding of chemical dependency problems; define goals; and plan actions reflecting the individual’s or group’s interest, abilities, and needs, as affected by chemical dependency problems. Services may include the diagnosis of a substance abuse disorder. LCDCs are not authorized to treat individuals with a mental health disorder or to provide family counseling to individuals whose problems do not include chemical dependency. A chemical dependency counselor must hold at least a two-year associate’s degree with a course of study in human behavior/development and service delivery and must complete 4,000 hours of supervised experience working with chemically dependent persons.
How often will I go to counseling?
How often you attend therapy will be determined with your therapist and varies widely from client to client. ln the beginning, you can expect once weekly sessions. As the appropriate level of care changes throughout the course of your treatment, so will the frequency of sessions. Periodically, your therapist will take the lead to make recommendations, as well as check in with you, about this area of your treatment planning. As with all aspects of your therapeutic experience, you are encouraged to proactively communicate your needs to your therapist at any time.
What if I have to cancel my appointment?
In an effort to effectively manage the practice’s schedule and maintain a profitable private practice, a cancellation policy must be consistently enforced. If you have to cancel an appointment, please provide a minimum of 24 hours notice via email, text, or phone. A full session fee will be charged for appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours notice or no notice (no call/no show). Insurance companies do not reimburse these fees. Clients will be financially responsible for the full fee of the session, which can be significantly higher than a copay or co-insurance fee.
In addition, arriving on time for your appointments helps demonstrate your commitment to your progress, and respect for other clients. In the event you arrive more than ten minutes past your scheduled appointment time, you will be asked to reschedule (late cancellation fee applies).
Can you prescribe medication?
No. If it is determined medication might be helpful, or required, for appropriate treatment, referrals are available.
Is what I say confidential?
Trust is one of the most crucial components in the client-counselor relationship. Everything you say in your sessions will remain completely confidential, with very few exceptions. It is important to note however, LPCs, LPC-Interns, and LCDCs are required to break confidentiality in some cases, and may break confidentiality in others. These circumstances are rare. Some examples include: harm to self or others, or legal directives.
Issues of confidentiality are discussed in further detail in the office policies/procedures document. Please feel free to contact the office directly with any questions or concerns you have regarding confidentiality.
Should I use my insurance?
There are pros and cons when it comes to using insurance for counseling services. One disadvantage is that counselors are required to submit a diagnosis to your insurance company for reimbursement. This reduces your privacy. Furthermore, a diagnosis may impact your ability to receive coverage in the future, limit the number of visits your coverage provides, and/or influence the type of counseling you receive. An advantage is that insurance reduces the amount of out-of-pocket expense you have to pay. It is important to do your own research before deciding if using your insurance for treatment is best for you. Please feel free to contact the office directly with any questions or concerns.
