Frequently Asked Questions
We understand that beginning the counseling journey can bring questions and uncertainty. Below, you will find answers to common questions about our Christ-Based counseling services, what to expect, and how we can support you.
Our goal is to provide a safe, compassionate, and biblically grounded environment where healing, growth, and restoration can take place.
restoration can take place.
Counseling & Faith
What does it mean for counseling to be Christ-Based?
At Bates Counseling Solutions, we believe that while counseling can provide valuable tools and guidance, true healing, transformation, and lasting peace come from God. Christ-Based Counseling combines sound counseling principles with the unchanging truth of God's Word, allowing faith to become an active part of the healing process.
Each session is approached with compassion, biblical wisdom, and prayerful dependence on the Holy Spirit, helping individuals find hope, healing, and direction while growing in their relationship with Jesus Christ. Our desire is to walk alongside you as you move from hurt to healing, from confusion to clarity, and from brokenness to wholeness.
Will we use Scripture and prayer in our sessions?
We open and close in prayer and look to specific biblical passages to provide comfort, direction, and truth. Scripture serves as our foundation for understanding identity, purpose, and restoration.
Do I have to be a Christian to seek counseling here?
No. We welcome anyone who is seeking support, healing, and personal growth. However, it is important to understand that Bates Counseling Solutions is founded on biblical principles, and the counseling process is rooted in the Word of God and the teachings of Jesus Christ.
While you do not have to be a Christian to receive counseling, you should be comfortable with and willing to engage in a Christ-centered approach. Many of the practical tools, guidance, and strategies we use are drawn from Scripture.
Our goal is to provide compassionate, non-judgmental support while helping clients navigate life's challenges through the truth, wisdom, and hope found in Christ.
What role does the Holy Spirit play in therapy?
We believe the Holy Spirit is the ultimate Comforter and Counselor. While we offer biblical guidance, encouragement, and practical support, true transformation comes through the work of God's Spirit.
In each session, we prayerfully invite His presence to bring wisdom, conviction, healing, insight, and enduring peace. We trust Him to illuminate truth, strengthen faith, and gently lead each person toward greater healing, wholeness, and alignment with God's purpose for their life.
How long is each session?
Standard counseling sessions last 50 minutes. This provides dedicated time for prayer, reflection, and focused dialogue centered on your journey toward wholeness.
Is my information confidential?
Absolutely. Your privacy is a sacred trust, and we are committed to providing a safe and confidential environment where you can share openly and honestly. Information discussed during counseling sessions is held in strict confidence and protected within the ethical and legal standards of professional practice.
As part of Christ-Based Counseling, we also operate under a principle known as Duty of Care, which outlines the limited circumstances in which confidentiality may need to be broken to protect your safety or the safety of others.
This important principle, along with our confidentiality policy, will be fully explained during your first counseling session.
How frequently should we meet?
Frequency is tailored to your unique walk. Many find weekly or bi-weekly sessions most beneficial for maintaining spiritual momentum and practicing biblical strategies between visits.
Sessions & Expectations
Do you offer online or in-person?
I offer the flexibility of secure online sessions, allowing you to find a peaceful space at home.
What can I expect in the first session?
The first counseling session is different from the Initial Consultation. The Initial Consultation is a brief opportunity for us to discuss what brings you to counseling, answer any questions you may have, and determine whether Bates Counseling Solutions is the right fit for your needs and goals.
Once you decide to move forward, your first counseling session serves as a welcoming introduction to the counseling process. We will spend time getting to know one another more deeply, exploring your concerns, discussing your goals, and establishing a foundation for our work together through Christ-Based guidance.
During this session, we will also review what you can expect from me as your counselor and what is expected of you as a counselee. Important topics such as confidentiality, our Duty of Care, and the foundational principles and process of Christ-Based Counseling will be explained to ensure clarity, understanding, and a shared commitment to the counseling journey.
Most importantly, this is a time to begin building trust, invite God's presence through prayer, and establish a pathway toward healing, growth, and wholeness in Christ.
What if I need to reschedule?
Life happens, and I ask for at least 24 hours notice for any changes. This allows us to offer that time to another soul seeking healing and helps maintain the stewardship of our schedule.
Pricing & Billing
What are your counseling fees?
We believe in transparency and responsible financial stewardship. Our counseling fees reflect the professional expertise, care, and personalized support provided, while remaining mindful of the individuals and families we are privileged to serve.
To offer flexibility, we provide both individual counseling sessions and counseling packages designed to meet a variety of needs and goals. Detailed information regarding available services, packages, and fees can be found on our Home Page under Counseling Packages.
To ensure your appointment time is reserved, all session fees are due at the time of scheduling. If you have questions regarding services, packages, or payment options, we are happy to discuss them with you during your Initial Consultation.
What payment options do you accept?
To make the scheduling process as convenient as possible, we accept all major credit cards, along with Cash App, PayPal, and Zelle. Payment is required at the time of scheduling to reserve your counseling session.
Do you accept insurance?
Bates Counseling Solutions does not accept insurance and operates on a self-pay basis. We have chosen this approach to maintain a counseling experience that is personalized, confidential, and centered on your individual needs and goals.
By remaining self-pay, we are able to provide Christ-Based Counseling that is guided by biblical principles and tailored to your unique journey toward healing, growth, and wholeness in Christ.
Please visit our Counseling Packages page for current fees and service options.