Frequently Asked Questions
You have questions. We have answers.
Therapy is a big step, and it’s natural to wonder what to expect. We’ve gathered the questions we hear most often to help you feel informed and confident as you consider your options.
These questions cover everything from what therapy is really like to how we work with specific concerns like trauma, relationships, and alternative lifestyles.
If you don’t see your question here, please reach out.
We’re here to help.
Getting Started
Your first steps toward therapy and what to expect
Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the courage to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. In our work together, we’ll help you explore and identify your strengths and how to implement them to reduce the influence of the problems you are facing.
Therapy can help if you’re experiencing persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or overwhelm, if your relationships feel strained or unfulfilling, if past experiences continue to affect your present, or if you’re simply feeling stuck and want support in moving forward.
You don’t have to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. Many people seek therapy for personal growth, relationship enhancement, or navigating life transitions. If you’re wondering whether therapy might help, that curiosity itself is often a good indicator that it’s worth exploring.
You don’t have to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. Many people seek therapy for personal growth, relationship enhancement, or navigating life transitions. If you’re wondering whether therapy might help, that curiosity itself is often a good indicator that it’s worth exploring.
Getting started is simple and free.
There are several ways to schedule an appointment.
The fastest way to book an appointment is by scheduling a free consultation here.
If you would like to match with a therapist, you can take our quiz here.
You can also call us at 559-633-9030 or use the contact form on our website. We’ll schedule a free consultation to discuss your needs, answer your questions, and help you determine which therapist might be the best fit for you.
During the consultation, there’s no pressure to commit. It’s just a conversation to help you feel informed and comfortable with your decision.
There are several ways to schedule an appointment.
The fastest way to book an appointment is by scheduling a free consultation here.
If you would like to match with a therapist, you can take our quiz here.
You can also call us at 559-633-9030 or use the contact form on our website. We’ll schedule a free consultation to discuss your needs, answer your questions, and help you determine which therapist might be the best fit for you.
During the consultation, there’s no pressure to commit. It’s just a conversation to help you feel informed and comfortable with your decision.
The first session is your complimentary consultation. This isn’t about paperwork or logistics. It’s simply a conversation to see if you feel comfortable with your therapist. They’ll listen to what brings you here, and you’ll get a sense of their warmth and approach.
During the consultation, there’s no pressure to commit. It’s just a conversation to help you feel informed and comfortable with your decision.
During the consultation, there’s no pressure to commit. It’s just a conversation to help you feel informed and comfortable with your decision.
We have a free therapy matcher quiz you can access here that will pair you with the therapist that fits your needs.
We’re also here to help you make that choice.
During your initial contact, we’ll ask about your concerns and preferences, then recommend therapists who specialize in those areas. You can also review our therapist pages to learn about each person’s background, approach, and specialties.
Factors to consider include: the issues you’re facing, therapeutic approach that resonates with you, specializations that match your needs (like LGBTQIA+ affirming care, trauma work, or couples therapy), and sometimes simply whose style or background feels like the right fit. Trust your instincts. The therapeutic relationship matters.
We’re also here to help you make that choice.
During your initial contact, we’ll ask about your concerns and preferences, then recommend therapists who specialize in those areas. You can also review our therapist pages to learn about each person’s background, approach, and specialties.
Factors to consider include: the issues you’re facing, therapeutic approach that resonates with you, specializations that match your needs (like LGBTQIA+ affirming care, trauma work, or couples therapy), and sometimes simply whose style or background feels like the right fit. Trust your instincts. The therapeutic relationship matters.
About Therapy
Understanding how therapy works and what to expect
The difference is between someone who can do something, and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way, teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself.
Furthermore, counseling is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, and you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.
Furthermore, counseling is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, and you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.
Medication can be effective but it alone cannot solve all issues. Sometimes medication is needed in conjunction with counseling. Our work together is designed to explore and unpack the problems you are experiencing and expand on your strengths that can help you accomplish your personal goals.
Therapy provides you with tools, insights, and coping strategies that medication alone cannot offer. Many people benefit from a combination of both, while others find therapy alone is sufficient. We’ll work with you to determine what approach serves you best.
Therapy provides you with tools, insights, and coping strategies that medication alone cannot offer. Many people benefit from a combination of both, while others find therapy alone is sufficient. We’ll work with you to determine what approach serves you best.
Because each person has different needs and goals for counseling, it will be different depending on the individual. We tailor our therapeutic approach to your specific needs.
Sessions typically involve conversation, exploration of thoughts and feelings, skill-building exercises, and sometimes homework between sessions. You’re an active participant in your healing, not a passive recipient. The more you engage with the process, the more you’ll benefit.
Sessions typically involve conversation, exploration of thoughts and feelings, skill-building exercises, and sometimes homework between sessions. You’re an active participant in your healing, not a passive recipient. The more you engage with the process, the more you’ll benefit.
Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time counseling can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek counseling in the first place.
Some people find relief in a few months, while others benefit from longer-term support. We’ll regularly check in about your progress and adjust our work together as needed. You’re in control of how long you continue therapy.
Some people find relief in a few months, while others benefit from longer-term support. We’ll regularly check in about your progress and adjust our work together as needed. You’re in control of how long you continue therapy.
We are so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication will be crucial to your success.
Here’s what helps: Be honest and open, even when it’s uncomfortable. Complete any homework or exercises between sessions. Notice patterns in your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Be patient with yourself and the process. Show up consistently, even when it’s hard. Ask questions when something isn’t clear. Communicate with your therapist about what’s working and what isn’t.
Here’s what helps: Be honest and open, even when it’s uncomfortable. Complete any homework or exercises between sessions. Notice patterns in your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Be patient with yourself and the process. Show up consistently, even when it’s hard. Ask questions when something isn’t clear. Communicate with your therapist about what’s working and what isn’t.
Please tell your therapist. Sometimes progress feels slow, or certain approaches don’t resonate with everyone. Open communication about what’s not working is essential and can actually strengthen the therapeutic relationship.
We might adjust our approach, try different techniques, or explore what’s getting in the way of progress. If after genuine effort it still doesn’t feel right, we can discuss whether a different therapist might be a better fit. Your healing matters, and we want to make sure you reach your goals.
We might adjust our approach, try different techniques, or explore what’s getting in the way of progress. If after genuine effort it still doesn’t feel right, we can discuss whether a different therapist might be a better fit. Your healing matters, and we want to make sure you reach your goals.
Yes, with a few important exceptions. Everything discussed in therapy is confidential and protected by law. We will not share information about you without your written consent.
The exceptions are: if you’re at risk of harming yourself or someone else, if there’s suspected abuse or neglect of a child, elder, or dependent adult, or if a court orders release of information. We’ll always explain confidentiality limits clearly, and in most situations, we’ll discuss these concerns with you before taking any action.
The exceptions are: if you’re at risk of harming yourself or someone else, if there’s suspected abuse or neglect of a child, elder, or dependent adult, or if a court orders release of information. We’ll always explain confidentiality limits clearly, and in most situations, we’ll discuss these concerns with you before taking any action.
Our Approach
How we work and what makes RCCC different
Our therapists are trained in multiple evidence-based approaches and tailor treatment to your specific needs.
Common approaches we use include:
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) for trauma and distressing memories
Attachment-based therapy for relationship patterns and early experiences
Trauma-informed care that recognizes how past experiences shape present challenges
Gottman Method for couples therapy
Cognitive-behavioral approaches for thought patterns and behaviors
You don’t need to know which approach is right for you. Your therapist will explain their methods and why they’re recommending specific techniques for your situation.
Common approaches we use include:
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) for trauma and distressing memories
Attachment-based therapy for relationship patterns and early experiences
Trauma-informed care that recognizes how past experiences shape present challenges
Gottman Method for couples therapy
Cognitive-behavioral approaches for thought patterns and behaviors
You don’t need to know which approach is right for you. Your therapist will explain their methods and why they’re recommending specific techniques for your situation.
We offer both in-person and online therapy sessions.
Our online therapy is available to anyone located in California or South Carolina, where we’re licensed to practice.
Many clients find online therapy just as effective as in-person, with the added convenience of attending from home. Some prefer the in-person connection. We can discuss which option might work best for you, and you can switch between formats if your needs change.
Our online therapy is available to anyone located in California or South Carolina, where we’re licensed to practice.
Many clients find online therapy just as effective as in-person, with the added convenience of attending from home. Some prefer the in-person connection. We can discuss which option might work best for you, and you can switch between formats if your needs change.
Being trauma-informed means we recognize that many people have experienced trauma, and that trauma affects how you relate to yourself, others, and the world. We understand that behaviors that might seem “dysfunctional” often developed as survival strategies.
In practice, this means we move at your pace, we don’t push you into painful topics before you’re ready, we prioritize safety and trust in the therapeutic relationship, we recognize your strengths and resilience, and we understand that healing isn’t linear. If you’ve experienced trauma we recognize that it affects your behavior. You’re adapting to what you’ve experienced.
In practice, this means we move at your pace, we don’t push you into painful topics before you’re ready, we prioritize safety and trust in the therapeutic relationship, we recognize your strengths and resilience, and we understand that healing isn’t linear. If you’ve experienced trauma we recognize that it affects your behavior. You’re adapting to what you’ve experienced.
Absolutely. You don’t have to explain yourself here. You can just be yourself. We provide affirming care for polyamorous relationships, ethical non-monogamy, open relationships, and other relationship structures.
Your relationships are respected, not pathologized. We understand the unique dynamics and challenges of non-traditional relationships, and we’re here to support you in creating the relationships that work for you.
Your relationships are respected, not pathologized. We understand the unique dynamics and challenges of non-traditional relationships, and we’re here to support you in creating the relationships that work for you.
Specific Services
Questions about our specialized therapy services
We work with both individuals and couples. Our couples therapists are trained in evidence-based approaches like the Gottman Method and can help with communication issues, conflict resolution, rebuilding trust, navigating life transitions together, and deepening intimacy and connection.
We work with couples of all orientations and relationship structures. Whether you’re married, dating, polyamorous, or exploring non-monogamy, you’re welcome here.
We work with couples of all orientations and relationship structures. Whether you’re married, dating, polyamorous, or exploring non-monogamy, you’re welcome here.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a powerful therapy for trauma and distressing memories. It helps your brain process traumatic experiences that have been “stuck,” reducing their emotional intensity and allowing you to move forward.
During EMDR, you’ll focus on a traumatic memory while your therapist guides you through bilateral stimulation (typically eye movements, but can also be taps or sounds). This helps your brain reprocess the memory in a less distressing way. Many people experience significant relief in fewer sessions than traditional talk therapy alone.
EMDR is particularly effective for PTSD, but it also helps with anxiety, depression, phobias, and other issues rooted in difficult experiences. Learn more about EMDR here.
During EMDR, you’ll focus on a traumatic memory while your therapist guides you through bilateral stimulation (typically eye movements, but can also be taps or sounds). This helps your brain reprocess the memory in a less distressing way. Many people experience significant relief in fewer sessions than traditional talk therapy alone.
EMDR is particularly effective for PTSD, but it also helps with anxiety, depression, phobias, and other issues rooted in difficult experiences. Learn more about EMDR here.
Yes. We understand the unique challenges faced by first responders, military personnel, and veterans. Several of our therapists have specialized training in PTSD, moral injury, hypervigilance, and the impact of repeated exposure to trauma.
We understand the culture, the reluctance to seek help, and the specific stressors of these careers. You don’t have to explain what it’s like. We get it, and we’re here to help.
We understand the culture, the reluctance to seek help, and the specific stressors of these careers. You don’t have to explain what it’s like. We get it, and we’re here to help.
Yes, we work with families, teens, and young adults. Adolescence is a challenging time, and family dynamics can be complex. We help with communication issues, behavioral concerns, depression and anxiety in teens, family conflict, life transitions, and parent-teen relationships.
For families, we understand that change happens within a system. We work with the whole family to create healthier patterns of communication and connection.
For families, we understand that change happens within a system. We work with the whole family to create healthier patterns of communication and connection.
Absolutely. Anxiety and depression are among the most common reasons people seek therapy, and all of our therapists are experienced in treating both. We use evidence-based approaches tailored to your specific experience.
We’ll help you understand the roots of your anxiety or depression, develop coping strategies, challenge unhelpful thought patterns, address any underlying trauma, and create a life that feels meaningful and manageable. You don’t have to keep living this way.
We’ll help you understand the roots of your anxiety or depression, develop coping strategies, challenge unhelpful thought patterns, address any underlying trauma, and create a life that feels meaningful and manageable. You don’t have to keep living this way.
How it Works
Logistics, insurance, and what to expect
Standard therapy sessions are 45-60 minutes, depending on your therapist, insurance requirements or your needs. Most clients meet weekly, especially at the beginning of therapy. As progress is made, some people transition to biweekly or monthly sessions.
We also offer extended sessions (75-90 minutes) for couples therapy or intensive individual work. The frequency and length of sessions can be adjusted based on your needs and progress.
We also offer extended sessions (75-90 minutes) for couples therapy or intensive individual work. The frequency and length of sessions can be adjusted based on your needs and progress.
Yes, we accept many major insurance plans, including Aetna, Blue Shield, Cigna, United Healthcare, Optum, and several others. We also work with out-of-network benefits through our partnership with Mentaya, which handles the claims process for you.
For detailed information about rates, insurance, and payment options, please visit our Therapy Rates and Insurance page. We’re happy to help you understand your benefits and options.
For detailed information about rates, insurance, and payment options, please visit our Therapy Rates and Insurance page. We’re happy to help you understand your benefits and options.
We understand that life happens. If you need to cancel or reschedule, please let us know at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations with less than 24 hours notice may be charged the full session fee.
We try to be flexible when emergencies arise. Just communicate with us. Your consistent attendance matters, but we also know that sometimes things come up.
We try to be flexible when emergencies arise. Just communicate with us. Your consistent attendance matters, but we also know that sometimes things come up.
If you’re experiencing a mental health crisis, please call 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) or go to your nearest emergency room. These services are available 24/7 and can provide immediate support.
While we care deeply about your well-being, we’re not able to provide crisis support outside of scheduled sessions. During your first session, we’ll create a safety plan together that includes resources you can access any time you need help.
While we care deeply about your well-being, we’re not able to provide crisis support outside of scheduled sessions. During your first session, we’ll create a safety plan together that includes resources you can access any time you need help.
You can leave messages for administrative matters (scheduling, billing questions, etc.) and your therapist will respond within 1-2 business days. For urgent clinical matters, please use crisis resources.
Therapy works best when the therapeutic work happens during sessions. Some therapists may offer brief check-ins between sessions in specific circumstances, which can be discussed with your individual therapist.
Therapy works best when the therapeutic work happens during sessions. Some therapists may offer brief check-ins between sessions in specific circumstances, which can be discussed with your individual therapist.
Both are fully qualified to provide exceptional care. Here’s the real difference:
Associate therapists (AMFT, ACSW) aren’t students or trainees. They’re fully qualified professionals who have:
• Completed the exact same master’s degree programs as licensed therapists
• Passed the same comprehensive exams
• Completed extensive clinical practicums during their graduate training
• Met California’s rigorous educational requirements for therapist licensure
The only difference? They’re completing the state-mandated 3,000 hours of supervised clinical practice required for independent licensure in California. This process typically takes 2 to 3 years of full-time work.
Think of it like this: A physician completes medical school, then completes their residency before practicing independently. Associate therapists have their degree. They’re doing their “residency” while providing excellent care.
The supervision requirement is actually an asset. Your associate therapist has ongoing access to clinical consultation from licensed supervisors. That means more expertise supporting your treatment, not less. They’re receiving regular guidance on complex cases, staying current on best practices, and benefiting from collaborative clinical support.
Licensed therapists (LCSW, LMFT, LPCC) have completed all 3,000 supervision hours and hold independent licenses, often with additional years of post-licensure experience.
The rate difference reflects where they are in the licensure process and years of experience, not their education, competence, or dedication to your healing. Both our associates and licensed therapists bring the same level of skill, compassion, and commitment to your care.
Many clients specifically choose to work with associates and maintain those therapeutic relationships for years. You’re in excellent hands with any therapist on our team.
Associate therapists (AMFT, ACSW) aren’t students or trainees. They’re fully qualified professionals who have:
• Completed the exact same master’s degree programs as licensed therapists
• Passed the same comprehensive exams
• Completed extensive clinical practicums during their graduate training
• Met California’s rigorous educational requirements for therapist licensure
The only difference? They’re completing the state-mandated 3,000 hours of supervised clinical practice required for independent licensure in California. This process typically takes 2 to 3 years of full-time work.
Think of it like this: A physician completes medical school, then completes their residency before practicing independently. Associate therapists have their degree. They’re doing their “residency” while providing excellent care.
The supervision requirement is actually an asset. Your associate therapist has ongoing access to clinical consultation from licensed supervisors. That means more expertise supporting your treatment, not less. They’re receiving regular guidance on complex cases, staying current on best practices, and benefiting from collaborative clinical support.
Licensed therapists (LCSW, LMFT, LPCC) have completed all 3,000 supervision hours and hold independent licenses, often with additional years of post-licensure experience.
The rate difference reflects where they are in the licensure process and years of experience, not their education, competence, or dedication to your healing. Both our associates and licensed therapists bring the same level of skill, compassion, and commitment to your care.
Many clients specifically choose to work with associates and maintain those therapeutic relationships for years. You’re in excellent hands with any therapist on our team.
We provide limited documentation. We can write letters for:
• Verification of therapy attendance (dates of service)
• Missed school or work due to therapy appointments
• School accommodation recommendations
We cannot provide documentation for:
• Medical or disability claims
• Custody evaluations
• Immigration cases
• Legal matters
Please discuss any documentation needs with your therapist to determine what we can provide.
• Verification of therapy attendance (dates of service)
• Missed school or work due to therapy appointments
• School accommodation recommendations
We cannot provide documentation for:
• Medical or disability claims
• Custody evaluations
• Immigration cases
• Legal matters
Please discuss any documentation needs with your therapist to determine what we can provide.
It depends on the situation. Seeing two therapists simultaneously can sometimes work well (for example, individual therapy and couples therapy, or therapy and psychiatric medication management). However, seeing two therapists for individual therapy at the same time can create confusion and slow progress.
If you’re considering working with multiple providers, let’s discuss how to coordinate care effectively. Open communication between your providers (with your permission) can actually enhance your treatment.
If you’re considering working with multiple providers, let’s discuss how to coordinate care effectively. Open communication between your providers (with your permission) can actually enhance your treatment.
Office Location
317 West Bedford Ave, 105D,
Fresno, CA 93711
Fresno, CA 93711
Contact Detail
559-633-9030
Email Address
info_va@relationship
counselingcenterof
california.com
counselingcenterof
california.com
Still Have Questions?
We’re here to help.
If you didn’t find the answer you’re looking for, or if you’d like to discuss your specific situation, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We offer free consultations where you can ask anything you need to know.
All inquiries are confidential, and we typically respond within 2-3 business days.
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All inquiries are confidential.
Crisis Support:
If you’re experiencing a mental health crisis, please call 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) or go to your nearest emergency room.
Our practice is not equipped for crisis intervention.