Now accepting new clients  ·  Crossville, TN
(931) 787-4447 Book a consultation
FAQ & Resources

Answers, and a hand to hold.

Common questions about starting therapy, and a few trusted resources if you or someone you know needs support right now.

These resources are not a replacement for mental health services. If you or someone you know needs immediate help, please call 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255.

If you need support now

Crisis & support resources

Teen & LGBTQ+ — The Trevor Project

  • Text START to 678-678
  • Call 1-866-488-7386
  • Chat available at the link above

Lifeline Suicide Hotline

  • Text or call 988

Tennessee Statewide Crisis Hotline

  • 1-855-CRISIS-1 (1-855-274-7471)

Crisis Text Line

  • Text “TN” to 741741

Domestic Violence Support

  • Text START to 8878
  • 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
  • Crossville, TN and surrounding areas — Avalon Center: 931-456-0747

Postpartum Support

  • Call or text the Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-852-6262 for 24/7 free, confidential support
  • Postpartum Support International also offers a 24/7 bilingual help line at 1-800-944-4773
Getting started

Frequently asked questions

Will therapy be confidential?

Yes. Your privacy is one of our highest priorities. Therapy is confidential, and your therapist follows strict legal and ethical guidelines to protect your information.

There are a few exceptions required by law, such as when there is an immediate risk of serious harm to yourself or someone else, suspected abuse or neglect of a child, elder, or vulnerable adult, or when records are released by court order or with your written permission.

Outside of these situations, no one—including your spouse, partner, parents, children, employer, physician, attorney, or anyone else—can receive information about your therapy without your specific written consent.

How do I know if therapy is right for me?

You don’t have to be in crisis to benefit from therapy.

Many people come to therapy because they’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, anxious, emotionally exhausted, grieving, navigating relationship challenges, adjusting to life changes, or simply wanting a space to better understand themselves.

If something has been weighing on your mind, therapy can provide a safe place to explore it. You don’t need to have all the answers before you begin.

What if I’m nervous about starting therapy?

That’s completely normal.

Starting therapy can feel vulnerable, especially if it’s your first time. Many clients tell us they were anxious before their first appointment, only to find themselves feeling relieved once they arrived.

Your first session is designed to be low-pressure. It’s an opportunity to get to know your therapist, share what feels comfortable, ask questions, and decide whether it feels like the right fit. There’s no expectation to tell your entire life story during your first visit.

How long will I be in therapy?

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer.

Some people come for support through a specific challenge and meet for only a few months. Others choose to stay longer as they work through deeper patterns or continue investing in their personal growth.

Together, you and your therapist will regularly discuss your goals and determine what feels most helpful for you.

How often should I come to therapy?

Most clients begin with weekly sessions to build momentum and establish a strong therapeutic relationship. As you make progress, your therapist may recommend meeting every other week or monthly, depending on your goals and needs.

We’ll work together to find a schedule that best supports your healing.

Do you accept insurance?

Yes. We are in-network with several major insurance plans.

Please visit our Insurance & Rates page to see our current insurance partners, self-pay rates, and payment information.

What if I have scary or intrusive thoughts? Will you report me?

No. Having intrusive or unwanted thoughts does not automatically mean you’re a danger to yourself or others.

Many people experience thoughts that feel frightening, upsetting, or completely out of character. Therapy is a safe, judgment-free place to talk openly about these experiences. Your therapist’s goal is to help you understand what the thoughts mean—not to judge you for having them.

If you’re ever unsure whether something is “okay” to bring up in therapy, the answer is almost always yes.

Do you offer virtual therapy?

Yes. We provide secure, confidential telehealth sessions for clients who are physically located anywhere in Tennessee.

Virtual therapy allows you to receive support from the comfort of your own home while receiving the same compassionate care as our in-person sessions.

Will talking about my trauma traumatize my therapist?

No.

Therapists are specially trained to work with trauma and to care for themselves so they can care for others. You don’t have to protect your therapist from your story.

Whatever you’ve experienced, your therapist is here to listen with compassion, not judgment. You deserve a space where you can talk openly without worrying about being “too much.”

Will my therapist prescribe medication?

No. Licensed professional counselors do not prescribe medication.

If medication may be helpful as part of your care, your therapist can discuss this with you and provide a referral to a trusted medication management provider. Whether or not medication is right for you is always a collaborative decision based on your individual needs and goals.

Do I have to know what’s wrong before I start therapy?

Not at all. Many people come to therapy saying, “I don’t even know where to start.” You don’t need the right words, a diagnosis, or a clear reason for seeking help. If something in your life feels heavy, confusing, or difficult, that’s enough. We’ll figure it out together.

Still have questions?

Reach out — we’re happy to talk through anything that isn’t covered here.

Request an appointment