FAQs

• Do you take my insurance?
• What if I can’t afford individual therapy?
• What do you mean by faith-based?
• What is the difference between psychologists, psychiatrists, and counselors, and which one do I need to see?
• What makes you different from any other counseling agency or private practice?

Do you take my insurance?

Most of the providers at Journeys Counseling Center do not bill insurance for a number of reasons. We generally find that involving a third party in your care limits our ability to make appropriate recommendations and takes time away from our service to you. We are happy to provide you with a statement of service. If the service qualifies for reimbursement through your insurance and you have out of network benefits, you may submit this statement yourself and receive reimbursement directly from your insurance company. Please note that most insurance companies do not pay for marital therapy, pastoral counseling, or spiritual direction. Another potential downfall of billing insurance is that a mental health diagnosis can follow you. If you have breaks in your insurance or attempt to purchase health insurance on your own, a mental health diagnosis can impact your premiums or qualification for insurance.

We recognize that the cost of mental health care can be overwhelming, particularly when you are not using any insurance benefit. However, we are more than willing to work with you on a plan that fits your budget.

What if I can’t afford individual therapy?

We know that therapy is often an expensive option, one that many families or individuals simply can’t afford.  We believe in helping you arrange a plan that fits your budget. During your first visit, we can help you assess your situation and make recommendations based on your monthly budget for mental health care.  We ask that clients consider what they can afford monthly in order to achieve their goals.  We will then work together on a plan that may include a combination of individual, marital, or group therapy, educational seminars, and appropriate community referrals. Our team offers a range of fees depending on the therapist’s level of training and experience. Some of our associates are able to offer fees similar to an average copay, making their services more affordable for clients. 

What do you mean by faith-based?

We are a group of professionals with a Christian faith background.  Many Christians seek treatment based on both psychological research and Biblical principles.  We all have unique integrated training to meet this need.  However, if you are from a different faith tradition, we will respect your faith.  In addition, we find that many of our clients have been hurt in some way by church leaders or members. Therefore, we respect each client’s unique history and background. 

The Journeys team believes that treating the whole person creates the best recipe for success, which is why we are committed to understanding your unique spiritual, physical, emotional, and relational concerns. 

What is the difference between psychologists, psychiatrists, and counselors, and which one do I need to see?

Psychologists have a doctorate in psychology and are licensed by the state board of psychologist examiners. They have been trained extensively in clinical assessment (psychological testing & diagnosis) and various types of therapy. Psychologist training programs generally consist of four to five years of graduate work, a full year of internship, and another year of post-doctoral training. Psychologists do not typically have prescription privileges. Some psychologists focus on clinical work while others are involved in academia as professors and researchers. Clinical psychologists often have training in individual, couples, and family therapy. Depending on experience and training, psychologists often specialize in different areas. 

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who have specialized in mental health care. Their training includes medical school and residency, which typically involves six to eight years post-bachelors training. They are especially trained to diagnose and treat mental health disorders with medications. Some psychiatrists also have training in psychotherapy but many others focus exclusively on medication management. 

In the state of Arizona, there are many types of counselors. Counselors have a master’s degree in counseling, marriage and family therapy, or social work. This involves two to three years of post-bachelors education, including a community-based internship. The Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners governs licenses for professional counselors, marriage and family therapists, substance abuse counselors, and social workers. Associate counselors have a master’s degree and are licensed to practice therapy but are still under clinical supervision for at least two years. As a client, you have the right to know who is supervising an associate’s cases. Fully licensed counselors can provide therapy independently and have completed at least two years of post-graduate clinical supervision. They offer a range of services, including individual, family, and couples therapy. Counselors often specialize in different areas, so it is important to choose a therapist based on your particular needs. 

What makes you different from any other counseling agency or private practice?

The Journeys team is committed to your health and well being. With a wide array of mental health experience, we are uniquely suited to advocate for you, whether that is referring you to various community agencies, creating a treatment plan that works toward your goals, or suggesting alternatives to traditional individual therapy models. 

We are highly selective regarding our team and want to provide you the best experience possible. We are aware that many people have negative experiences when they seek mental health services and want to diminish that possibility.