Starting therapy can feel like a big step — and it’s completely normal to have questions first. Here are answers to the ones we hear most often. If something isn’t covered here, don’t hesitate to reach out directly.
About Therapy
What, exactly, is therapy?
Therapy — often used interchangeably with psychotherapy — is the application of evidence-based techniques to improve mental, social, and interpersonal functioning. Beyond the technical definition, it’s a process of bettering yourself: improving relationships, understanding your patterns, and finding a non-judgmental, compassionate space to do that work.
What is the difference between therapy and counseling?
Counseling tends to be shorter-term and focused on behavior change. Therapy is generally a longer process that involves gaining insight into chronic emotional patterns and exploring how we exist in the world. In practice, there’s significant overlap. The important thing is that your provider is trained, degreed, and licensed to legally practice in Texas.
Some people think I should be able to handle my struggles on my own. Does needing therapy mean something is wrong with me?
Not at all. Seeking therapy is a wise act of self-care — no different than seeing your doctor for a physical health concern that needs professional attention. Mental health challenges are no different from physical ones, and reaching out for support is a sign of self-awareness, not weakness.
Is therapy like it is in Hollywood — years of just talking on a sofa?
Therapy looks different for every person. Some people work through a specific issue and complete treatment relatively quickly. Others have experienced complex things over a lifetime and healing takes more time. Some choose ongoing therapy as an act of self-care and continued growth. There’s no right or wrong — your pace is your pace, and your therapist will follow your lead.
How long are sessions?
Individual and family therapy sessions are typically 55 minutes and usually occur weekly at the start of treatment. As progress is made, frequency often reduces over time.
Getting Started
How do I know if therapy is a good option for me?
A genuine commitment to personal change is the cornerstone of a successful therapy experience. Therapy can benefit people across a wide spectrum — from those navigating serious mental health challenges to those simply seeking deeper self-understanding and growth.
How do I know if I’ve found the right therapist?
The therapeutic relationship is one of the most important factors in effective treatment. The best way to find out if it’s a good fit is to schedule a consult and ask yourself: “Do I feel safe and comfortable with this person? Do they seem to understand me?” A free 20-minute phone consultation is available before you commit to the full intake appointment.
What can I expect at the initial consultation?
The initial consultation is your therapist’s opportunity to learn what’s bringing you in and make recommendations for next steps. It’s also a diagnostic interview — a thorough history is gathered and a symptom inventory is taken so that the most appropriate treatment can be identified. Everything discussed is confidential, with the same limits that apply throughout therapy.
Why isn’t the initial consultation free?
The intake appointment is a substantive clinical session — not a sales call. Your therapist is actively working to understand you, build rapport, gather a thorough history, and form a diagnostic picture that will guide your entire treatment. That work has real value, and the $150 fee reflects it.
After the initial consultation, what comes next?
If therapy is recommended, you and your therapist will collaboratively develop a treatment plan outlining what you’d like to accomplish. Progress is reviewed periodically throughout treatment to ensure you’re moving in the right direction — and the plan adjusts as your needs evolve.
How do I start?
It’s simple. Reach out through the button below or call us at 806-429-8088. Our care coordinator will guide you through next steps and scheduling. We’re a paperless office — most intake paperwork is completed through our secure Client Portal before your first appointment.
Privacy & Confidentiality
Will anyone else know what is discussed in therapy?
Only if you give explicit written permission. Confidentiality is foundational to the therapy process. Everything discussed in session is confidential with three exceptions: if you express intent to harm yourself or someone else, if you disclose that someone is harming you, or if your therapist is subpoenaed by a court. Therapists are also legally required to report suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of children and vulnerable adults.
Insurance & Cost
Does Waypoints Counseling accept insurance?
Yes. We accept most major insurance plans including BCBS PPO & HMO, Medicare, Medicaid (Superior, FirstCare & Amerigroup), FirstCare Health Plans, Amerigroup, TriWest/VA Community Care, Cigna, United/Optum/UMR, Group and Pension Administrators/Molina Health Care, Imagine360/Partners Direct Health, Aetna, and Magellan. If your plan isn’t listed, we can provide a superbill for possible out-of-network reimbursement.
Therapy seems expensive. How do I know if it’s worth it?
Therapy is an investment in yourself. By engaging in the process, you’re building awareness of negative patterns and developing more adaptive ways of thinking and responding — changes that tend to show up in how you feel, your relationships, your work, and your health. Most people find the return on that investment significant.
My insurance only covers a few sessions. Can I make progress in a short time?
Yes. When session limits apply, we use Solution-Focused treatment — a structured, goal-oriented approach designed to create meaningful change in a short period of time.
What if I don’t have insurance?
A sliding fee scale is available for those who qualify. Eligibility can be determined before your first appointment so there are no financial surprises.
Logistics & Telehealth
Do you offer video sessions?
Yes. Telehealth sessions are available via secure audio/video on any desktop, laptop, tablet, or mobile device (iOS or Android). No commute, no waiting room — just convenient, secure care from wherever you are.
Do you prescribe medication?
Therapists at Waypoints Counseling do not prescribe medication. However, we partner with Winding Roads Psychiatry (Julia Ontiveros, PMHNP) to provide integrated psychiatric care when medication management may be a helpful part of your treatment. With your permission, we can coordinate care seamlessly between both providers.
Still Have Questions?
We’re happy to talk through anything before you take the first step. A complimentary 20-minute consultation call is available — no commitment required.
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