FAQ

What privacy (confidentiality) will I have?

Confidential conversations between a counselor and a client are something that counselors are bound to by the ethical standards of their profession. The purpose of confidentiality is to provide a safe environment where a client will freely discuss his problems, without fear that very personal information will be revealed to others. This increases trust and the likelihood that all aspects of a given problem will be brought into the open. Confidentiality then is important for a good counselor-client relationship.

By law, there are three issues that can’t be kept confidential. A counselor is legally required to report cases of child and elder abuse. In cases where a client is an imminent suicide risk or is threatening harm to another person, confidentiality may be broken. These exceptions are to protect others, or the client himself. These are important and necessary exceptions. Any other disclosure of information about one’s counseling requires written permission.

There is another aspect of confidentiality that needs to be mentioned. Besides one’s conversations with a counselor, the very fact that he is receiving counseling is confidential. This is partly because in our society there still exists significant bias and discrimination toward those who seek assistance for mental and/or relationship problems.

How much does it cost?

I offer counseling on a sliding scale with reduced rates so that finances do not have to be a hindrance to getting help. It is our goal to provide help regardless of financial circumstances.

The standard rates for an appointment are: $110/95 for a counseling

What is a typical client?

  • A middle aged man who has spent the past 25 plus years rising up the corporate ladder and raising a family only to find himself depressed and having difficulty getting up and going to work. His life lacks meaning even though he has accomplished what a man like him is supposed to. He realizes that his relationships with is wife, family, and friends have deteriorated or are non-existent.
  • The young couple married 8 years. It seems all that they do is fight. With three kids, 2 jobs, and a mortgage they have little time for each other. Both wonder if this is all there is.
  • The 9 year old little girl has been experiencing severe anxiety over going to school. She often complains of not feeling well, and has difficulty getting along with other children. Her school performance is suffering.
  • A married woman, who by society’s standards has it all. She struggles with depression and anxiety. For years she has tried to deny that the abusive and dysfunctional home she grew up in was impacting her adult life. She has tried to put the past behind her, to follow Christ and serve him completely in all she does. Yet, the intrusive thoughts, the nightmares, the feelings of panic, and the difficulties with intimacy continue unabated.
  • The college student was raised in a Christian home, yet you wouldn’t know it by how his/her life looks today. It began with missing church, being out too late at parties, and has ended up with an addiction to alcohol and drugs. The parents knew something was wrong by the dropping grades, but were shocked and ashamed upon learning the truth. As an elder in the church, this is not supposed to happen to one of his children.

What Specialties do you have?

I have developed expertise in the following areas:

  • Anxiety and Depression
  • Marital and Family Counseling
  • Addictions
  • Body image and eating disorders
  • Recovery from abuse, trauma, and dysfunctional families
  • Children and adolescents
  • Parenting
  • Aging and family caretaking
  • Grief and loss

Will Christian Counseling really help?

The Christian Counseling Center can provide you an opportunity to develop a relationship with a caring, compassionate, and professionally trained Christian Counselor. The counselor will help you identify areas in your life that are causing distress and help you move towards wholeness. Change may be needed in your emotions, thought patterns, behaviors, or relationships. Change is encouraged through the use of therapeutic techniques and Biblical Truth.

Who can receive services?

Anyone….I provide services for individuals, couples, and families regardless of race, creed, gender, or socio-economic status. You do not have to be a member of any church.

How do I make an appointment?

Appointments can be scheduled by calling me 972-422-8383. Or, you may email me at: mschick1@icloud.com