Frequently Asked Questions
Do you accept insurance?
Yes. All of our licensed therapists are in network with many insurance plans. The specific plans accepted vary by therapist, so we’re happy to verify your benefits and help you understand your options.
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Pastoral counseling is private pay and is not billed to insurance.
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How do I know if counseling could help me?
You do not have to be in crisis to benefit from counseling. People seek counseling for many reasons, including difficult emotions, strained relationships, grief, major life changes, or simply feeling stuck. Counseling offers a safe place to understand what you are experiencing, develop healthier ways of responding, and move forward with greater hope and clarity.
What is pastoral counseling?
Pastoral counseling at Still Waters is provided by a licensed minister and offers adults biblical guidance, spiritual support, prayer, and thoughtful conversation through caregiving, grief, relationship concerns, spiritual struggles, ministry challenges, life transitions, and questions of purpose.
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Pastoral counseling is a faith-based ministry service and is distinct from psychotherapy. It does not include diagnosing or treating mental health disorders. When clinical mental health care is appropriate, we can help connect you with one of our licensed counselors.
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Do you offer online and in-person appointments?
Yes. We offer both online and in-person mental health therapy and pastoral counseling. Our team can help you find the provider and appointment format that best fit your needs.
What’s the difference between talking with a counselor and talking with a friend or family member?
Support from people who know and love you is valuable. Counseling offers something different: a confidential, intentional relationship focused on your needs, concerns, and goals.
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Whether you receive mental health therapy or pastoral counseling, your counselor brings specialized training and experience to help you understand what you are facing and consider a healthy way forward. Counseling does not replace supportive relationships, but it can provide a kind of care that friends and family may not be equipped to offer.
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What happens during counseling sessions?
We begin wherever you are. You do not need to have everything figured out or know exactly what to say. Your counselor will listen, ask thoughtful questions, and help you explore what you are facing and what you hope will change.
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Sessions may include meaningful conversation, practical strategies, clinical approaches, biblical guidance, or prayer, depending on whether you are receiving mental health therapy or pastoral counseling and what is appropriate for your needs and goals.
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What if I just take medication, or what if I don’t want to take medication?
Medication and counseling serve different purposes, and some people benefit from one or both. We do not prescribe medication or advise you to begin or stop taking it. Those decisions should be made with a qualified medical provider.
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Your counselor can help you explore your concerns, support you alongside your medical care, and connect you with a prescribing provider when needed.
How long will I be in therapy?
The length of counseling depends on your needs, concerns, and goals. Some people benefit from a few sessions, while others choose to continue for a longer time. You and your counselor will discuss your progress along the way and decide together what is most helpful for you.
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I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?
Come as you are and be as open and honest as you are able. Attend consistently, ask questions, share what is or is not helping, and practice or reflect on what you discuss between sessions.
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You do not have to do counseling perfectly. Growth often happens one honest, faithful step at a time, and your counselor will walk alongside you throughout the process.
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Do you provide Good Faith Estimates?
Yes. Under the No Surprises Act, clients who do not have insurance or choose not to use insurance for mental health therapy are entitled to receive a Good Faith Estimate of expected charges.
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You may request a Good Faith Estimate before scheduling your first appointment or at any time during care.
Pastoral counseling rates are listed on our Financial Information page.
"God has sent no one to this earth purposeless."
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- Karen Wheaton Towe (from 1 Peter 2:9)