Have questions about counseling? You’re not alone.
Here’s what to expect and how to get started.

Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, especially if this is your first time or if you’re unsure what to expect. Below are answers to some of the most common questions we receive.   If you don’t see your question here, our Care Team is happy to help.

What Can I Expect From Counseling?

Your first counseling (also called therapy) session is a space to be heard. Your therapist will take time to understand what’s bringing you in, explore your history, needs, and goals, and answer any questions you may have. There’s no pressure to share more than you’re comfortable with, and our goal is to create a supportive, caring environment where you feel at ease.

For in-person sessions, you’ll arrive at the location where your appointment is scheduled.  When you come to our office at 5501 Jackson Street in Alexandria, LA, 2220 Shreveport Hwy, Pineville, LA, or 304 University Parkway in Natchitoches, LA, you can take a seat in our waiting area. You’re welcome to enjoy coffee, water, or a snack while you wait. At your scheduled appointment time, your therapist will come greet you and walk you back to the session room.

For online sessions, you’ll join using the secure link sent to you ahead of time. We recommend downloading the SimplePractice Client app to easily access your session and manage appointments.

 

Together, you and your therapist will begin identifying meaningful, strength-focused goals for you, your child, or your family. Counseling is individualized and collaborative, with the focus on providing support and tools that best fit your needs and help create lasting, positive change.

A close up of two people takling at a desk while one gestures with an open notebook. This could represent having questions answered like what to expect from therapy in Alexandria, LA. Learn more like how long does therapy last in Alexandria, LA today. 71303 After your first session, your therapist will recommend a session frequency based on your needs and presenting concerns. Many clients begin with weekly sessions for the first 6–8 weeks to build momentum and support. As progress is made, session frequency is adjusted, with counseling always tailored to your goals and a pace that feels supportive and sustainable..

The length of counseling depends on your individual needs, goals, and progress. Many clients begin with weekly sessions for the first 8–12 weeks to build momentum and support, then gradually adjust session frequency as progress is made.

Some people benefit from brief counseling lasting around 8 sessions, while others choose longer-term support that may continue for months or longer. Your therapist will work with you to regularly review goals and ensure counseling continues to meet your needs and support meaningful, lasting change.

Sessions are often between 50-55 minutes. If more time is needed, please call to discuss with your counselor the time needed in advance.

How Do I Get Started With Counseling?

When you contact us, our Client Care Coordinator will take time to answer your questions, discuss your needs, and help you explore appointment options that work for you.

If you’re ready to learn more,  you can call us at 318-266-7021 or submit a contact form here, and our Care Team will follow up to guide you through next steps.

A close up of a therapist extending a helping hand with a soft smile. Learn answers to your most asked questions including what to expect from therapy in Alexandria, LA. Learn more from a therapist that takes insurance in Alexandria, LA 71303

You may have various questions about if you actually need therapy. You may be wondering “Should I be feeling this way? Is this normal anxiety? Am I depressed? Is grief supposed to be this hard?” If so, then therapy is for you. It’s common to question whether therapy is right for you. But chances are if you are asking the question, then therapy in Alexandria, LA, Pineville, LA, and Natchitoches, LA can help. 

Life struggles can be hard, but you don’t have to go through them alone. Being able to talk with someone can help you feel better and move forward.  

It’s not an easy decision to ask for help or decide to start therapy.  So when you are ready to begin counseling, we are here to help. 

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If you live anywhere in the state of Louisiana, we can work with you. Our professional licenses allow us to work with any Louisiana resident. Through online therapy, we can offer our services to you where you are.

Insurance, Cost, and Payment

Our rates for individual and couples counseling vary based on which therapist you choose to work with.  Our rates vary from $105-$145 per session.  The first session is approximately $20 more than your follow-up session rate.  We also have counseling interns at times who provide counseling sessions at a reduced rate.  Please reach out to our office to find out more. 

Rates vary per therapist due to varying levels of licensure status, experience, and specialized training.  To find out more about each of our individual therapists you can check out their profiles under “Our Therapists” on the main menu above or on our “About Us” page.  If you are uncertain which therapist will be right for you, when you contact our office our Client Care Coordinator would be happy to find the therapist that’s right for you and your needs. 

We do, but only for individual counseling.  We accept the following insurance plans:

  •         *BlueCross BlueShield
  •         *United Healthcare/Optum (commercial plans only)
  •         *90 Degree Benefits
  •         *Cigna
  •         *Medicare Part B
  •  

Not all of our therapists accept insurance.  This is mostly due to restrictions with insurance companies.  Only fully licensed therapists can be credentialed with insurance companies in Louisiana. 

For those who don’t have insurance, we offer private pay options.  Check out the above question, “How much does counseling/therapy cost?” for more information. 

If we are out of network with your insurance provider, we can provide you with documentation you can submit this to your insurance for possible reimbursement. This is based on your out-of-network benefits. We recommend contacting your insurer to find out about possible out-of-network coverage.

It’s important to point out that Be Inspired Counseling & Consulting has no control of whether or not you are eligible to receive reimbursement for services through your insurance.  If you ever have any questions about what your insurance does or does not cover, please call your insurance company directly to find out more information. 

We collect payment at the end of every session.  

After insurance is processed, if you have an additional balance we will make you aware and you are responsible for the balance. 

If you ever have any questions about charges or payments, please contact our office at 318-266-7021 ext. 2 to reach our billing department and we’d be happy to answer any questions or concerns you have.

We do not accept insurance for couples/relationship counseling.  This is because the type and style of therapy we provide with regard couples/relationship/marriage counseling does not meet the criteria for service under insurance providers.  

We ask clients to cancel or reschedule 24 hours in advance. If this fails to occur, cancellations and rescheduled sessions will be subject to a $75 charge.  

This is necessary because we make a time commitment to you and this time is only for you. Additionally, your therapist may arrange to provide the session via phone or computer. This may better help accommodate your needs. If you are late for a session, you may lose some of your session time.

Fit, Common Concerns, and Confidentiality

That’s completely normal. Many people reach out feeling unsure or overwhelmed. Counseling is a space to explore what you’re experiencing at your own pace. Your therapist will work with you to understand your concerns and determine whether counseling feels like a good fit for your needs.

Every counseling experience is different, and fit matters. Our Care Team works to thoughtfully match you with a therapist whose experience and approach align with what you’re looking for—even if counseling hasn’t been helpful in the past.

It’s completely okay if you don’t know what to talk about. Many people come to counseling feeling unsure about where to start. Your therapist will help guide the conversation by asking thoughtful questions and creating a supportive space to explore what’s been on your mind. You don’t need to have everything figured out—showing up is enough, and together you’ll begin identifying what feels most important to focus on.

Our therapists work with children and teens in developmentally appropriate, supportive ways. Parents or caregivers are often involved in the process, especially at the beginning, to help clarify concerns and goals. Your therapist will discuss what involvement looks like and answer any questions you may have.

Yes. Counseling is confidential, and your privacy is important to us. Information shared in sessions is protected and not disclosed without your consent, except in specific situations required by law. Your therapist will review confidentiality and its limits with you during your first session.

There are some legal and ethical limits to confidentiality, such as concerns related to safety or abuse. These situations are discussed clearly during the intake process so you understand how your information is protected and when disclosures may be required.

We use secure systems to protect your information and follow professional and ethical standards to maintain privacy. If you have questions about documentation, records, or communication, our Care Team or your therapist will be happy to explain further.

If you have additional questions or concerns not answered here, our Care Team is happy to help.

Talk With Our Care Team

Begin Therapy in Alexandria, Pineville, Natchitoches, or Online

 

Thank you for taking the time to learn more about our practice, and learning more about therapy! Our caring therapists are ready to support you in overcoming the issues that affect you most.  We are happy to offer support from our Alexandria, Pineville, and Natchitoches, LA-based counseling practice. If you can’t make it in person, we also offer online counseling to Louisiana residents.  To start your therapy journey, please follow these steps:

  1. 1. Contact us to schedule your first appointment. Call us at 318-266-7021 or submit a contact form here.
  2. 2. Meet with a caring therapist
  3. 3. Start feeling inner calm and live your best life

  5. If you want to find out more to determine if treatment for depression is right for you, call us. You’ll connect with our client care coordinator,  Christy Mockosher or Samantha Ferrier.
  6. They will walk you through the process of setting up your initial appointment. You’ll connect with a therapist that specializes in the challenges you are facing.

Services Offered By Be Inspired Counseling & Consulting

We offer a variety of services from our Alexandria, LA, Pineville, LA, and Natchitoches, LA-based counseling practice. Mental health services our team provide include therapy for anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief. We also offer child counseling, couples therapy, group counseling, counseling for women, and counseling for teens. Contact us to learn more about online therapy and consulting services. Or, visit our blog for more helpful information!

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