What is your relationship with Apex Counseling?

I operate as an independent contractor, and work in partnership with a group practice based in Morgantown, WV, called Apex Counseling. That’s why some of my links direct you to Apex’s website, and my contact details (phone and email) are connected to them.

What counseling services do you provide?

I provide counseling services for adults ages 18 and older. I provide individual counseling services. I do not work with children or teens, and I do not provide couples or family counseling. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, adjustment/life change issues, grief, trauma (including complex trauma and dissociation), and other mental health problems. I also have training and experience in providing gender-affirming care and referrals.

I consider grief and trauma to be my specialty areas of counseling. I believe in the importance of making intentional efforts toward processing and healing through difficult life experiences. I acknowledge that grief comes in many forms- death of a loved one, loss of a dream or opportunity, family estrangement, the end of any relationship, infertility and childlessness after infertility, a big life change (even a “positive” change), anticipatory grief, and many others.

I also acknowledge that while trauma is sometimes a big event that happened, that’s not always the case. Trauma is anything that overwhelms the nervous system. Sometimes this is one “big” event, or a series of “smaller” events, something that should have happened but didn’t, dysfunctional family dynamics in childhood, and many other experiences.

How much does counseling cost? Do you offer a sliding scale for cash payment?

My current rate is $175 for a 60-minute session. This price reflects my experience and specialized training. At this time I do not offer a sliding scale.

Do you accept insurance?

I am in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield, PEIA, and Peak. For other insurance providers, I can provide you with a document that you can send to your insurance in order to have them reimburse you.

What are your hours?

My hours for counseling sessions are generally Monday-Friday 9 am through 4 pm (last session 3 pm). I am sometimes available for sessions on Friday mornings.

Do you offer evening and weekend appointments?

While I will do my best to accommodate your schedule, I do not offer evening and weekend appointments.

How can I schedule an appointment?

Reach out to me through the Get in Touch tab, give me a call at 304-381-3659 ext 3, or email me at courtney@apexcounseling.org.

Do you have immediate openings?

Sometimes I can get a new client scheduled right away, and sometimes I will need to place people on my waiting list. It’s important to me that I don’t overstuff my schedule- I want my clients to be able to schedule appointments as often as necessary. This means I may ask you to wait to schedule our first session. You’ll receive periodic updates about the waiting list so you know where you are on the list and that you haven’t been forgotten!

Is counseling confidential?

Yes. One of the foundational concepts of counseling is confidentiality- what is said in our sessions stays in our sessions. There are four main exceptions to confidentiality:

1. Posing a threat to yourself and/or others

2. Disclosing information about children and/or vulnerable adults who are being abuse or neglected

3. A court order

4. Necessary disclosure to your insurance company (session notes) in order to receive payment

How do I know if I need counseling?

I believe everyone can benefit from counseling. Counseling is absolutely for people who experience really tough mental health symptoms and experiences, but it’s not just for those folks. If you think there are things you want to change about your life, if you’re curious about how your life could improve, or if you’re someone who generally feels “fine” but doesn’t quite feel like life is meaningful and fulfilling, counseling could be helpful for you!

Does counseling involve you telling me what to do or how to fix my problems?

My job as a counselor is to get to know you, help you explore the parts of your life that are and aren’t working for you, and help you utilize various skills and resources in order to create a life that is meaningful and fulfilling. That may mean addressing unhelpful thinking patterns, working to change unhealthy behaviors, processing trauma, experiencing grief, or a number of other therapeutic experiences. Every counseling process is unique and tailored to your individual goals and needs. While I will offer resources and suggestions, and in some cases (such as EMDR) will offer more directive interventions, you will be free to chose how you engage with each step of the process.

I’m nervous to start counseling. How do I get over it?

You don’t have to “get over” anything in order to start counseling. Bring your nervousness with you. Many people come into their first session with me feeling nervous, worried, apprehensive, or unsure, and by the end of the session find themselves saying “This wasn’t so bad. I want to come back.”

This FAQ list is not exhaustive. Please feel free to ask whatever questions you have when you contact me! Counseling is a collaborative, consent-based process, and I want you to feel you have the information you need to make the best decision for yourself.