Frequently Asked Questions
General Therapy FAQs
How Do I Choose the Right Therapist at Genesis Counseling?
Finding the right therapist is essential for a successful therapy experience. At Genesis Counseling, our Intake Team carefully matches clients with a therapist based on their presenting concerns, goals, and preferences. Our therapists have diverse specialties, credentials, and training to ensure personalized care for children, teens, adults, couples, and families. We offer therapy at our Coral Springs, Boca Raton, Delray Beach, and Pompano Beach locations, as well as virtual therapy across Florida. With flexible appointment times from 8 AM to 8 PM, we strive to accommodate your schedule.
What Should I Expect During My First Therapy Session?
Your first session at Genesis Counseling is an intake appointment, where your therapist will gather important background information to better understand your needs. Whether you’re seeking therapy for yourself, your child, or your family, this session will focus on:
1. Discussing your history and what led you to seek therapy.
2. Identifying your concerns and goals for treatment.
3. Developing a personalized treatment plan to guide your progress.
4. Confirming scheduling and session frequency moving forward.
Our therapists create a safe, supportive environment to help you feel comfortable sharing your experiences.
Do You Offer Virtual Therapy Sessions?
Yes! Genesis Counseling offers HIPAA-compliant virtual therapy for children, teens, adults, couples, and families across Florida. All of our licensed therapists provide secure and confidential telehealth sessions, allowing you to receive high-quality mental health care from the comfort of your home.
During your intake scheduling, our team will provide all the necessary information on how to access virtual sessions. Telehealth is a convenient option for those with busy schedules, transportation challenges, or a preference for remote care.
What Insurance Plans Do You Accept, and Do You Offer Private Pay Options?
At Genesis Counseling, we accept a variety of insurance plans and offer private pay options to ensure accessible mental health care.
All of our clinicians at all locations are in-network with: Tricare, United Healthcare / Optum / Oscar, Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) / Florida Blue / Lucet, Aetna, Cigna. Additionally, our licensed clinicians are in-network with Medicare and Quest.
For clients paying out-of-pocket, we offer a structured rate system:
*Master’s Level Pre-Licensed Clinicians: $125 – $175 per session
*Licensed Clinicians: $175 – $225 per session
*Student Interns (Sliding Scale Rate): $40 – $100 per session
How Confidential Is Therapy?
At Genesis Counseling, your privacy is our priority. Therapy sessions are completely confidential and protected by HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act), which ensures your personal and medical information remains secure.
Confidentiality & Ethical Standards
Everything you discuss in therapy is strictly confidential and will not be shared without your written consent.
Our therapists adhere to state and federal laws, as well as the ethical guidelines set by professional organizations such as the American Counseling Association (ACA) and the American Psychological Association (APA).
Exceptions to Confidentiality; by law, therapists must break confidentiality in specific circumstances, including:
1. If there is a risk of harm to yourself or others.
2. If there is suspected abuse or neglect of a child, elderly person, or vulnerable adult.
3. If required by court order or legal proceedings.
Do You Offer Faith-Based Counseling?
At Genesis Counseling, we respect and honor each client’s individual beliefs, values, and cultural backgrounds. While we are not a faith-based practice, some of our therapists offer faith-integrated counseling for clients who wish to incorporate their spirituality or religious beliefs into therapy.
Ethical & Clinical Approach to Faith-Based Counseling
Client-Centered Care: Therapy is always guided by the client’s personal values and preferences—if faith is an important part of your life, your therapist can integrate it into your treatment.
Evidence-Based & Ethical Practices: Our therapists adhere to professional ethical guidelines set by the American Counseling Association (ACA) and the American Psychological Association (APA), ensuring that faith-based discussions in therapy remain respectful, client-led, and clinically appropriate.
Diverse & Inclusive Therapy: We welcome clients of all religious and spiritual backgrounds, as well as those who prefer a secular therapy approach.
If you would like to request a therapist who integrates faith into therapy, contact our Intake Team to discuss your preferences.
Individual Therapy FAQs
Can Therapy Help with Self-Esteem and Personal Growth?
Yes! Therapy at Genesis Counseling is a powerful tool for building self-esteem, improving confidence, and fostering personal growth. Whether you struggle with negative self-talk, self-doubt, or feeling stuck in life, therapy can help you develop a stronger sense of self-worth and direction.
How Therapy Supports Self-Esteem & Growth:
1. Identifying Negative Thought Patterns – Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness-Based Therapy, therapists help clients recognize and challenge self-critical thoughts.
2. Building Healthy Coping Skills – Learn strategies to manage stress, overcome fear of failure, and set healthy boundaries in relationships.
3. Developing Confidence & Self-Compassion – Therapy fosters a growth mindset, helping you embrace your strengths and work toward personal and professional goals.
How Can Therapy Help with Anxiety, Depression, or Stress?
At Genesis Counseling, therapy provides effective, evidence-based treatment for anxiety, depression, and stress-related concerns. Our therapists use clinically proven techniques to help clients develop coping skills, improve emotional well-being, and regain a sense of control over their lives.
How Therapy Can Help:
1. Anxiety Therapy – Learn how to manage excessive worry, panic attacks, and social anxiety through techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR).
2. Depression Therapy – Address persistent sadness, lack of motivation, or feelings of hopelessness with CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Psychodynamic Therapy.
3. Stress Management – Develop healthy coping mechanisms for work, school, or personal stressors through mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and behavioral strategies.
Child & Teen Therapy FAQs
What Can I Expect When My Child Starts Therapy?
At Genesis Counseling, we understand that starting therapy is a big step for both children and parents. Our therapists create a safe, welcoming environment where your child can express their emotions, build coping skills, and work toward emotional well-being.
The First Therapy Session (Intake Session), the therapist meets with you and your child to gather background information, family history, and a clear understanding of the concerns bringing them to therapy. Together, you’ll discuss therapy goals and determine a treatment plan. The therapist will explain how sessions will work, answer any questions, and provide recommendations for ongoing care.
What Happens in Ongoing Therapy?
For Young Children: Therapy often involves play-based techniques, including Play Therapy, Art Therapy, and Expressive Arts Therapy, to help children communicate their feelings in a natural, engaging way. For Teens: Therapy is typically talk-based, integrating techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, and Stress Management Strategies to help them navigate emotions, relationships, and daily challenges. The therapist may also work with parents, teachers, or other professionals (with consent) to support progress. While sessions are confidential, therapists provide regular feedback to parents and may schedule parent check-ins to discuss progress and strategies for home. It’s important to allow your child to share at their own pace and avoid pressuring them to discuss session details.
How Do I Know If My Child or Teen Needs Therapy?
It can be difficult to know whether your child or teen is going through a typical phase or experiencing emotional struggles that require professional support. At Genesis Counseling, our therapists specialize in child and adolescent mental health and can help determine if therapy is the right step.
Signs Your Child or Teen May Benefit from Therapy:
* Emotional Changes – Persistent sadness, excessive worry, mood swings, or frequent emotional outbursts.
* Behavioral Concerns – Increased defiance, aggression, withdrawal, or self-isolation.
* School Struggles – Difficulty concentrating, dropping grades, school refusal, or disciplinary issues.
* Changes in Eating or Sleeping Patterns – Sudden insomnia, excessive sleeping, loss of appetite, or overeating.
* Self-Harm or Risky Behaviors – Cutting, substance use, reckless actions, or talk of self-harm.
* Social Withdrawal – Avoiding friends, loss of interest in activities, or increased conflict with peers.
Therapy Can Help Children & Teens:
1. Express and process their emotions in a safe, supportive environment.
2. Develop healthy coping skills for anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
3. Improve communication and relationships with family and peers.
4. Build self-confidence and resilience for long-term emotional well-being.
How Can I Support My Child During Therapy?
At Genesis Counseling, we believe that parental support is a key factor in a child’s progress in therapy. While therapy provides a safe space for children and teens to express their emotions, parents play an important role in reinforcing their growth outside of sessions.
Ways to Support Your Child’s Therapy Journey:
1. Be Open & Encouraging – Let your child know that therapy is a safe and supportive place to express themselves, and reassure them that seeking help is a sign of strength.
2. Respect Their Privacy – Avoid pressuring your child to share everything discussed in therapy. Many children need time to process their emotions and will share when they feel comfortable.
3. Implement Strategies at Home – Therapists may provide coping techniques, communication tools, or behavioral strategies to reinforce progress between sessions.
4. Attend Parent Check-Ins – While therapy sessions are confidential, therapists schedule parent consultations to provide updates and offer guidance on how to support your child at home.
5. Be Patient with Progress – Growth takes time.
6. Celebrate small victories and remain consistent with therapy appointments to help your child build confidence and emotional resilience.
7. Collaborative Therapy Approach at Genesis Counseling(Our therapists work closely with parents, schools, and other professionals (with consent) to create a well-rounded support system for your child.
Trauma Therapy FAQs
How Do I Know If I Need Trauma Therapy?
If you have experienced a distressing or life-altering event and are struggling with its emotional or psychological effects, trauma therapy may help you heal and regain a sense of control. At Genesis Counseling, we specialize in helping individuals process trauma and develop healthier coping strategies.
Signs That Trauma Therapy May Be Right for You:
* Intrusive Thoughts & Flashbacks – Reliving painful memories, nightmares, or distressing thoughts.
* Emotional Numbness or Detachment – Feeling disconnected from yourself, loved ones, or daily life.
* Heightened Anxiety & Hypervigilance – Constantly feeling on edge, easily startled, or unable to relax.
* Avoidance Behaviors – Avoiding people, places, or situations that remind you of past trauma.
* Intense Guilt, Shame, or Self-Blame – Struggling with negative thoughts about yourself or the event.
* Difficulty Regulating Emotions – Sudden mood swings, anger outbursts, or overwhelming sadness.
* Physical Symptoms – Chronic pain, headaches, digestive issues, or fatigue linked to emotional stress.
How Trauma Therapy Can Help:
1. Identify and process traumatic memories in a safe, supportive environment.
2. Develop coping strategies to manage anxiety, depression, and emotional distress.
3. Rebuild self-esteem, strengthen relationships, and regain control over your life.
What Is Trauma Therapy, and How Can It Help Me Recover?
Trauma therapy is a specialized form of counseling that helps individuals process, heal, and move forward from distressing or life-altering experiences. At Genesis Counseling, our therapists use evidence-based techniques to support clients in overcoming the emotional and psychological impact of trauma.
How Trauma Therapy Helps:
1. Understanding Trauma Responses – Learn how past experiences affect your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
2. Reducing Triggers & Anxiety – Develop coping skills to manage flashbacks, panic attacks, and emotional distress.
3. Rebuilding Self-Worth & Trust – Work through feelings of guilt, shame, or self-blame while regaining confidence and control over your life.
Therapeutic Approaches We Use:
Our therapists are trained in evidence-based trauma treatments, including:
1. Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) – Helps reframe negative thoughts related to trauma.
2. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) – Reduces emotional distress by reprocessing traumatic memories.
3. Somatic Therapy & Mindfulness-Based Techniques – Supports healing by addressing trauma stored in the body.
What Types of Trauma Do You Specialize in Treating?
At Genesis Counseling, our therapists specialize in treating a wide range of trauma-related experiences that can impact emotional, psychological, and physical well-being. We provide individualized trauma therapy to help clients process distressing events and develop healthy coping strategies.
Types of Trauma We Treat:
* Childhood Trauma & Abuse – Emotional, physical, or sexual abuse, neglect, and early attachment wounds.
* PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) – Symptoms from past accidents, violence, medical trauma, or other life-threatening events.
* Sexual Trauma & Assault Recovery – Therapy for survivors of sexual violence, harassment, or intimate partner abuse.
* Grief & Loss Trauma – Processing the death of a loved one, miscarriage, or traumatic loss.
* Relationship & Domestic Violence Trauma – Healing from narcissistic abuse, toxic relationships, or family dysfunction.
* Medical & Birth Trauma – Coping with complications from surgery, childbirth, or chronic illness.
* First Responder & Workplace Trauma – Support for healthcare professionals, military personnel, law enforcement, and other high-stress careers.
* Generational & Cultural Trauma – Healing from the impact of racial, historical, or systemic oppression.
Our Trauma Therapy Approaches:
We use evidence-based treatments tailored to each client’s needs, including:
1. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
2. Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
3. Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)
4. Somatic Therapy & Mindfulness-Based Techniques
Couples & Family Therapy FAQs
Can Couples Therapy Help If We Are Considering Separation or Divorce?
Yes! Couples therapy can be a valuable tool for couples who are struggling in their relationship, whether they want to repair their connection or navigate separation in a healthy way. At Genesis Counseling, our therapists help couples gain clarity, improve communication, and make informed decisions about their future.
How Couples Therapy Can Help:
1. Improve Communication – Learn to express needs, listen actively, and resolve conflicts more effectively.
2. Rebuild Trust & Intimacy – Address emotional wounds, betrayal, or disconnect in the relationship.
3. Clarify Relationship Goals – Determine whether to work toward reconciliation or separation.
4. Navigate Separation Respectfully – If divorce is the decision, therapy can provide guidance on co-parenting, emotional processing, and transitioning in a healthy way.
Our Approach to Couples Therapy:
We use evidence-based relationship counseling methods, including:
*Gottman Method Couples Therapy – Strengthens emotional connection and conflict resolution skills.
*Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) – Helps partners understand and respond to each other’s emotional needs.
What If My Partner Doesn’t Want to Attend Therapy? Can I Come Alone?
While couples therapy is most effective when both partners participate, individual therapy can still be incredibly helpful if your partner is unwilling or hesitant to attend. At Genesis Counseling, we support individuals in improving their relationships, communication skills, and emotional well-being, even if their partner chooses not to join therapy.
How Individual Therapy Can Help Your Relationship:
1. Improve Communication & Conflict Resolution – Learn strategies to express yourself more effectively and navigate challenges with your partner.
2. Understand Relationship Patterns – Gain insight into how past experiences and emotions influence your relationship dynamics.
3. Strengthen Emotional Well-Being – Manage stress, anxiety, or relationship-related struggles in a healthy way.
4. Create Positive Change – Even when only one partner attends therapy, personal growth can positively impact the relationship.
Encouraging Your Partner to Consider Therapy If your partner is unsure about therapy, we recommend:
*Exploring their concerns together – Validate their hesitations and offer information on how therapy works.
*Starting with an individual session – Sometimes, partners are more open to therapy after seeing the benefits firsthand.
*Considering a consultation – We offer short-term relationship check-ins to help couples decide if therapy is right for them.
Do You Offer Therapy for Co-Parenting or Blended Families?
We provide therapy for co-parents and blended families to help navigate the challenges of parenting after separation, divorce, or remarriage. Our therapists offer guidance, conflict resolution strategies, and emotional support to improve family dynamics and create a healthier environment for children.
How Co-Parenting & Blended Family Therapy Can Help:
1. Improve Communication Between Co-Parents – Learn how to work together effectively, even in high-conflict situations.
2. Reduce Conflict & Stress – Develop strategies to manage disagreements without negatively impacting children.
3. Help Children Adjust to Family Changes – Support kids through transitions, such as remarriage, step-siblings, and shared custody arrangements.
4. Establish Healthy Boundaries – Define clear parenting roles and expectations to prevent confusion and conflict.
5. Strengthen Relationships – Foster positive connections between children, parents, and stepparents.
Therapy Approaches We Use:
Our therapists use family therapy techniques such as:
*Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Helps parents and children manage emotions and adjust to changes.
*Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) – Strengthens parent-child relationships and improves behavior.
*Solution-Focused Therapy – Provides practical tools to address co-parenting challenges.
LGBTQIA+ Therapy FAQs
How Does Genesis Counseling Provide a Safe and Affirming Space for LGBTQ+ Clients?
At Genesis Counseling, we are committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and affirming environment for LGBTQ+ individuals and sexual minorities. We recognize the unique mental health challenges that LGBTQ+ clients may face and offer compassionate, identity-affirming therapy to support emotional well-being, self-acceptance, and personal growth.
How We Create a Safe & Affirming Space:
*LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists – Our clinicians are trained in LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy, ensuring a judgment-free, understanding, and supportive experience.
*Gender-Affirming & Identity Exploration Support – We provide therapy for individuals who are questioning, exploring, or transitioning, as well as those navigating their gender and sexual identity.
*Culturally Competent & Trauma-Informed Care – We acknowledge the impact of discrimination, family rejection, minority stress, and systemic oppression on mental health and integrate evidence-based approaches to support healing.
*Support for Coming Out & Relationship Dynamics – Whether you’re coming out to family, friends, or at work, or navigating LGBTQ+ relationships, our therapists offer a safe space to process emotions and build confidence.
*Inclusive Therapy for All Identities – We welcome clients across the entire LGBTQIA+ spectrum, including gay, lesbian, bisexual, pansexual, asexual, transgender, nonbinary, genderfluid, and questioning individuals.
Do You Offer Support for Gender Identity and Self-Discovery?
At Genesis Counseling, we provide a safe, inclusive, and affirming space for individuals exploring their gender identity and personal journey. Our therapists offer compassionate, client-centered support tailored to each individual’s needs, helping clients navigate self-discovery and life transitions with confidence.
How Therapy Can Help:
*Identity Exploration – A supportive environment to process feelings and experiences related to self-identity and expression.
*Emotional Well-Being & Coping Strategies – Guidance for managing stress, self-acceptance, and personal growth.
*Support for Life Changes – Helping clients navigate social, family, and personal relationships.
*Personalized Therapy Goals – Sessions are designed to focus on what feels most important and meaningful to you.
Where We Offer Identity-Affirming Therapy:
We provide in-person therapy at our Coral Springs, Boca Raton, Delray Beach, and Pompano Beach locations, as well as virtual therapy across Florida. If you're seeking a supportive space for self-exploration and personal growth, contact us today to schedule a session. You deserve a place where you feel valued, respected, and heard. 🌈
What Mental Health Concerns Affect the LGBTQ+ Community, and How Can Therapy Help?
Members of the LGBTQ+ community often face unique mental health challenges due to social, cultural, and political factors. At Genesis Counseling, we provide affirming, supportive therapy to help individuals navigate these concerns while fostering emotional well-being and resilience.
Common Mental Health Concerns in the LGBTQ+ Community:
*Anxiety & Depression – Due to factors like discrimination, stigma, or family rejection, many individuals experience chronic stress, anxiety, or depressive symptoms.
*Identity & Self-Acceptance Challenges – Struggles with internalized stigma, self-worth, and navigating identity in different spaces.
*Relationship & Family Conflicts – Issues related to coming out, family acceptance, romantic relationships, and friendships.
*Minority Stress & Discrimination – The emotional impact of workplace challenges, social exclusion, or bias.
*Trauma & PTSD – Some individuals experience trauma from bullying, hate crimes, or past negative experiences.
How Therapy Can Help:
*Affirming, Judgment-Free Support – A safe space to explore identity, emotions, and challenges without fear of judgment.
*Coping Strategies for Stress & Anxiety – Learn healthy ways to manage external pressures and emotional distress.
*Improving Self-Esteem & Confidence – Work on self-acceptance and building a positive self-image.
*Navigating Relationships & Boundaries – Guidance for managing family, friendships, and romantic relationships in a way that honors your well-being.
Addiction & Recovery Therapy FAQs
Do You Offer Therapy for Addiction and Recovery?
At Genesis Counseling, we provide therapy for addiction and recovery, offering compassionate, evidence-based support for individuals struggling with substance use, behavioral addictions, and the emotional challenges of recovery. Our therapists help clients develop healthy coping strategies, prevent relapse, and rebuild their lives in a supportive environment.
How Therapy Can Help with Addiction Recovery:
1. Identifying Triggers & Underlying Causes – Explore the emotional, psychological, or environmental factors contributing to substance use or compulsive behaviors.
2. Developing Healthy Coping Strategies – Learn practical skills to manage stress, cravings, and emotional distress without turning to substances.
3. Relapse Prevention Planning – Work with your therapist to create a structured relapse prevention plan to maintain long-term sobriety.
4. Healing from Trauma & Co-Occurring Mental Health Issues – Many individuals struggling with addiction also experience anxiety, depression, PTSD, or trauma, which therapy can help address.
5. Support for Families & Loved Ones – Therapy can also help family members understand addiction, improve communication, and set healthy boundaries.
Therapeutic Approaches We Use:
Our therapists utilize proven treatment methods tailored to each client's recovery journey, including:
*Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Helps reframe negative thought patterns and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
*Motivational Interviewing (MI) – Encourages clients to build motivation and commitment to recovery.
*Mindfulness & Stress Management Techniques – Supports emotional regulation and self-awareness in recovery.
What Role Does Therapy Play in Addiction Recovery?
Therapy is a key component of addiction recovery, helping individuals address the emotional, psychological, and behavioral aspects of substance use and compulsive behaviors. At Genesis Counseling, our therapists provide personalized, evidence-based treatment to support clients in achieving long-term recovery and emotional well-being.
How Therapy Supports Addiction Recovery:
*Understanding the Root Causes of Addiction – Therapy helps clients explore the underlying emotional pain, trauma, or mental health challenges that contribute to substance use.
*Developing Healthy Coping Skills – Learn how to manage stress, cravings, and emotional triggers without turning to substances.
*Relapse Prevention Strategies – Work with a therapist to identify high-risk situations and create a structured plan for maintaining sobriety.
*Healing Relationships & Rebuilding Trust – Therapy can help improve communication, repair family relationships, and set healthy boundaries.
*Addressing Co-Occurring Mental Health Concerns – Many individuals in recovery also struggle with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or trauma, which therapy can help address in a supportive environment.
Evidence-Based Approaches in Addiction Therapy:
At Genesis Counseling, our therapists use clinically proven methods tailored to each client's recovery journey, including:
*Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Helps clients change negative thought patterns and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
*Motivational Interviewing (MI) – Encourages clients to explore their personal reasons for change and commitment to recovery.
*Mindfulness-Based Therapy – Supports emotional regulation and stress management in sobriety.
How Long Is Therapy FAQs
How Long Will Therapy Last?
The length of therapy varies for each person, depending on their goals, challenges, and progress. At Genesis Counseling, we provide personalized treatment plans tailored to each client’s needs, ensuring they receive the right level of support.
Factors That Influence the Length of Therapy:
*Presenting Concerns – Short-term therapy may be effective for situational stress, while deeper issues like trauma, anxiety, or relationship challenges may require longer-term support.
*Treatment Goals – Some clients seek therapy for specific concerns that can be addressed in a few months, while others benefit from ongoing care for personal growth, emotional regulation, or relapse prevention.
*Consistency & Engagement – Regular attendance and applying therapy tools outside of sessions can impact progress.
Typical Therapy Duration:
*Short-Term Therapy (6-12 sessions) – Focused on immediate concerns, such as stress management, mild anxiety, or life transitions.
*Longer-Term Therapy (3 months - 1+ year) – Used for deeper emotional work, such as trauma recovery, depression, or complex relationship issues.
*Ongoing or Maintenance Therapy – Some individuals prefer periodic check-ins after reaching initial goals to maintain progress.
Flexible Therapy Options at Genesis Counseling:
We offer weekly and biweekly therapy based on client needs, with in-person sessions at our Coral Springs, Boca Raton, Delray Beach, and Pompano Beach locations, as well as virtual therapy across Florida. If you're wondering how long therapy may take for you, contact us today to schedule an intake session and discuss a treatment plan that fits your needs.