Questions & Answers

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Do you have available appointments? 

Yes, we are taking new clients at this time. Call (912)247-5000 to schedule an appointment.

Do you take insurance? 

Yes, Vanover Counseling, Inc. accepts Optum, United, Veteran's Insurance, and is Out of Network for all other insurances which means you pay the full fee at the time of the appointment and Vanover Counseling, Inc. sends you a Superbill to mail in to your insurance. 

Will on-line therapy be as affective as meeting a counselor in person? 

A lot of research has been done on this and the results show no difference in outcomes/success when therapy is given on-line or in person. You don't have to drive to a therapist, this saves you time and expense. It reduces the chances of you missing appointments due to weather or traffic.  And it's much more private. Most people say they easily adjust to on-line therapy after the first few minutes or sessions.

How do I connect to the video?

You will receive an email reminder for your appointment that you can click on.  Once you are in the portal, click on your scheduled appointment, then click "Start your Video Session". If you are connecting by cell phone, you will be directed to get an App for secure, video connection (you will need good cell service, but you do not need wifi). Or if you don't want to use your email, you can click on the  Client Portal from this website.  

Can I do a trial run to make sure I will be okay doing video counseling?

Yes, we can do one trial run for ten minutes at no cost to you.

Do I have to download anything on my computer?

No, you are sent a link through your email or you can click on the link on this website to the Client Portal. However, if you use your cell phone or iPad, you will download an App for connection.

How do I prepare for my first session?

Find a comfortable, private place for the session where you won't be interrupted. Please turn the camera away from windows so you won't be backlit.  If you have headphones, have them handy - sometimes there is feedback and headphones eliminate that. Bring a notepad and pen. If this is our first time meeting, bring a license or ID to confirm your identity. Make sure your wifi is on and working. Check that you do have a camera on your computer or phone or iPad and that it's functioning. Close out of all your other programs so you have faster Wifi. Chrome seems to work the best.  Maybe bring some water to sip on. Pat yourself on the back, you are taking a courageous step. 

I just want to meet with a therapist in person, can I do that?

No, sorry, we are 100% on-line. Most people do not mind after a few minutes because it is so similar to meeting in person.

What if I have an emergency and need to talk with my therapist immediately? 

Only Emergency Rooms, Hotlines and 911 are set up for emergencies, please go there, or call 911 or the Hotline. Veterans can call  1-800-273-8255 or go to Veteran Crisis Line .net. Everyone else can call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-888-914-5022. Please call us after your emergency, we want to know about it and schedule a follow-up.

How will I be charged for sessions?

Unless you have the above listed insurance, you will be charged via your credit card automatically at the end of session. The rate is $160 per 52 minute session. 

I am a Veteran, how will I be charged for sessions?

If you are a veteran eligible for VA services (and you live in Virginia, Florida or Arkansas), you are not charged for sessions because we are a VA Community Care Program provider.  Please call me if you have any questions on how  to request the consult, we are happy to walk you through.

Do you treat children or teens?

We treat teens who want therapy. A parent must be nearby but not must also allow privacy.

Do you treat Active Duty military?

Yes, if you are transitioning out. Otherwise, I recommend going to the Mental Health Clinic or P3 on your base. If you aren't happy with your therapist, respectfully request another, even if you have to go to another base. They have to accommodate you when you ask.  Military One Source and MFLC are also options. 

How secure is the process?

The video counseling, Messaging Service, Scheduling, Billing and Payments are through a HIPPA Secure program that is encrypted. This protects your information. I have Cyber Security Insurance and am a Certified Telemental Health Professional (meaning I'm trained in protecting your information). There are always risks, but I prioritize protecting your information and confidentiality.

I want to take the Self-Guided PTSD On-line Course, how do I do that? 

Go to the top of this page and click on Self-Guided PTSD Course.