FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What do all the letters after a provider's name mean?
These letters indicate which license the provider carries and often relates to the level of schooling completed, whether masters or doctorate level.
Why do some providers take insurance while others do not?
Whether or not to accept insurance is a choice each provider makes on their own. Serving on insurance panels can broaden the number of potential clients and help provide more affordable service to those in need. Working with insurance providers can also mean increased paperwork and some practice restrictions. If you prefer to see a provider who does not take your insurance, you can explore if you can receive any out-of-network benefits or have payments apply to your deductible. Many providers have some "sliding scale" slots based on income, which can be helpful when available.
What if I am not happy with the treatment I am receiving from my therapist?
First and foremost, it is best to have a frank discussion with your provider about any of your concerns. Mental health professionals are always ready to provide referrals to make sure clients get the best fit for their needs.
If you feel like your therapist is not informed and competent to work with the LGBTQ+ community, please contact us at [email protected]. We will do an investigation and follow up. All of our providers self-certify to a level of training and competence to be a member of the organization.
Finally, if you feel that your provider has committed a grievance beyond a "bad fit" and more of an ethical issue regardless of who the client may be, you can make a report to the licensing board in the state of Georgia. For LPC, LMFT, and LCSW, you can contact the board at http://sos.ga.gov/index.php/licensing/plb/43. For psychologists, contact the board at http://sos.ga.gov/index.php/licensing/plb/44.
How do I pick a therapist?
It is best to start with what your needs are. Do you need to use your insurance, or could you see someone independently? How far can you travel for service? Is there a specialty area that fits for you (couples counseling, sex therapy, trans specific issues, poly/kink, etc)? You can use your responses to these questions to search our database. Once you have identified some possibilities, give each of them a call for a phone introduction. Tell them a little about what brings you to counseling and ask any questions you may have. Let them tell you about themselves and their practice. Listen to see if what they offer is right for your needs, and listen to your gut about if it feels like a good fit. If all seems right, schedule a first appointment.
These letters indicate which license the provider carries and often relates to the level of schooling completed, whether masters or doctorate level.
- LPC: Licensed Professional Counselor
- LMFT: Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
- LCSW: Licensed Clinical Social Worker
- LMSW: Licensed Master Social Worker
- APC or LAPC: Associate Professional Counselor (under supervision and working toward full licensure)
- Psych: Psychologist with either a PhD or PsyD
- Other designations such as MAC,CCT,CST,CPCS, refer to specialized certifications and training beyond a degree
Why do some providers take insurance while others do not?
Whether or not to accept insurance is a choice each provider makes on their own. Serving on insurance panels can broaden the number of potential clients and help provide more affordable service to those in need. Working with insurance providers can also mean increased paperwork and some practice restrictions. If you prefer to see a provider who does not take your insurance, you can explore if you can receive any out-of-network benefits or have payments apply to your deductible. Many providers have some "sliding scale" slots based on income, which can be helpful when available.
What if I am not happy with the treatment I am receiving from my therapist?
First and foremost, it is best to have a frank discussion with your provider about any of your concerns. Mental health professionals are always ready to provide referrals to make sure clients get the best fit for their needs.
If you feel like your therapist is not informed and competent to work with the LGBTQ+ community, please contact us at [email protected]. We will do an investigation and follow up. All of our providers self-certify to a level of training and competence to be a member of the organization.
Finally, if you feel that your provider has committed a grievance beyond a "bad fit" and more of an ethical issue regardless of who the client may be, you can make a report to the licensing board in the state of Georgia. For LPC, LMFT, and LCSW, you can contact the board at http://sos.ga.gov/index.php/licensing/plb/43. For psychologists, contact the board at http://sos.ga.gov/index.php/licensing/plb/44.
How do I pick a therapist?
It is best to start with what your needs are. Do you need to use your insurance, or could you see someone independently? How far can you travel for service? Is there a specialty area that fits for you (couples counseling, sex therapy, trans specific issues, poly/kink, etc)? You can use your responses to these questions to search our database. Once you have identified some possibilities, give each of them a call for a phone introduction. Tell them a little about what brings you to counseling and ask any questions you may have. Let them tell you about themselves and their practice. Listen to see if what they offer is right for your needs, and listen to your gut about if it feels like a good fit. If all seems right, schedule a first appointment.