It can be challenging to begin the process of meeting with a new counselor - whether this is your first time or you have prior experience. We hope that the following will answer any of the questions you might have. If you do not see the answer to your question below, please contact us and we will answer you directly.
The initial session is particularly structured and focuses on helping us get to know you and your history/background. The session will also include a brief overview into our approach towards counseling and our therapeutic style. We understand that there may be some pressing issues you want to start working on right away, so we can work to find a balance together in order to accommodate both your needs as well as what is needed administratively.
We tend to provide a lot of autonomy in sessions, as we believe you are the expert on what you need and are looking for. With this, the exact structure depends on what you prefer. Some people prefer to just be listened to, and some people prefer to focus on developing coping skills. Generally speaking, sessions will allow for a bit of both. Here are Illumino, we want you to feel comfortable communicating what you need for any given session, so the exact structure can and will most likely fluctuate as we work together.
This depends on why you are seeking counseling and the approach you would like to take. If you are seeking counseling to navigate a current crisis, counseling will most likely not need to last longer than a few sessions. However, if you are dealing with more chronic struggles, the counseling experience will take longer. The average length of counseling is about 12-15 weeks, but the exact length of your counseling experience is something that we can discuss together based on your needs, expectations, and goals.
This is a personal question that only you can answer. If you are having difficulty managing whatever challenges you are facing on your own, or with the support systems that you already have in place, chances are that it would be helpful to seek professional help. When in doubt, we recommend giving counseling a try.
Sessions that are considered 60-minute sessions will typically last from 52 to 60 minutes, and 45-minute sessions will typically last from 38 to 52 minutes.
Currently, we are only able to see clients who live in Maryland. If you live out of state and would like some assistance in finding a Catholic counselor, feel free to contact us and we will do our best to offer some suggestions. Additionally, due to Maryland law, you must be physically present in Maryland to receive counseling. This means that if you are out of state for any reason, even if you are a full time resident, you will not be able to meet with Illumino Counseling until you return to the state.
The level of involvement depends on the child’s age, the problem at hand, and personal preference. Certain things will always be communicated with parents, such as suicidal or homicidal ideation, self-harm, or other dangerous activities. If there are any other issues that would be helpful for the parents to know, the counselor will either encourage the child to communicate these on their own or will ask permission to do so themselves.
Diagnostic intakes are $140, 60-minute sessions are $125, and 45-minute sessions are $100. Initial consultations, such as a 15 minute video call, are free of charge.
Unfortunately, Illumino Counseling does not accept insurance. Only out of pocket payments will be received.
While our company holds Catholic Christian values, we respect that our client’s values and beliefs may differ from our own. With this, we work to provide person-centered treatment and encourage you to communicate your personal beliefs and values as we work together. The extent to which faith is integrated into our sessions is up to you as the client.
Silver spring, Maryland
Copyright © 2024 Illumino Counseling
All Rights Reserved.
We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.