What is mental health counseling?

Mental health counseling is usually provided one-on-one in a private, confidential setting. For us, we provide our counseling services via telehealth only. In your counseling session, you have a safe space to discuss any issues or problems you are experiencing in your life; you can learn many things about yourself or gain a variety of skills, such as learning ways to cope with those issues, identifying areas to grow, challenging yourself to think differently about situations, etc.

Our counseling services are individualized for each person, which means it can look different for everyone. If you are curious about how mental health counseling can impact you or would like to know more, you can schedule a free consultation with one of our counselors by visiting this page and scheduling with one of our counselors. Not sure which counselor may be right for you? Fill out our contact us form and let us help you navigate this decision.

What is telehealth counseling?

Telehealth is a digital way to have your counseling session, via online video conferencing software. You will be able to access the same benefits as in-person counseling. Many people find telehealth to have additional benefits, such as flexibility in scheduling appointments and the ability to have your session from anywhere in the state of Florida, as long as you have access to a private, safe space. 

What equipment or technology will I need for telehealth counseling?

Our electronic health record system includes secure video-conferencing software. When you set up your client portal, you will use this to access your telehealth session with the click of a button. You will need a camera and microphone for the session, but most phones, tablets and laptops have these features built in. We recommend logging on to the portal a few minutes early to orient yourself to the interface and to check your video and audio settings. Some people find it more comfortable to use headphones with an attached microphone for their sessions.

Do you only see people who live in Florida?

No! We currently have counselors who are licensed in Florida, Virginia, or both. If you are physically located in either Florida or Virginia, we are able to provide counseling services to you. Additionally, the counseling compact is supposed to go into effect at the end of 2024 to allow mental health providers the ability to see clients in states outside of their current licensure. Over 30 states are participating in the counseling compact to improve access to mental health services. To see if your state will be participating in the counseling compact, click here.

Are counseling and therapy the same?

Many people use the terms mental health counseling, mental health therapy and psychotherapy interchangeably. We use “counseling” because some people are uncomfortable with the word therapy. Our dedication to you is the same no matter what we call it.

Because of universal insurance coding, you may see the term “psychotherapy” used for our services on billing items or on an explanation of benefits (EOB).   

Do you accept insurance?

We are currently in-network with many plans under Optum (United Healthcare), Aetna, and Cigna. We are actively working towards becoming in-network with other insurances and will update this page when we are approved. Please let us know if you need an itemized receipt to submit to your insurance for reimbursement if it is not a plan we currently take.

What is an Employee Assistance Program (EAP)?

An Employee Assistance Program, or EAP, is a confidential counseling service provided through employers to support their employees' mental and emotional well-being, which can include a range of counseling services, including individual therapy, family counseling, and crisis intervention. Our team of licensed counselors is dedicated to providing personalized support to help employees navigate life's challenges effectively. EAP's are in place to help employees access professional counseling services conveniently and confidentially, empowering them to lead healthier and more balanced lives both at work and at home. 1up Counseling is in-network with UnitedHealth's EAP and Cigna’s EAP, but some employers opt to handle EAP services internally.

What can I expect in the first session?

The first counseling session is structured differently than most sessions. Your counselor will review policies and answer any questions you may have. The first session covers a comprehensive picture of who you are as a person, your background, history, and any issues or problems you are experiencing. Your counselor will guide you more formally through questions to cover these topics in order to utilize the session time effectively. You will also discuss your goals for counseling in this session. If you have questions or concerns about what mental health counseling looks like, we would be happy to discuss this with you!

What if I don’t play video games? Can I still receive counseling from 1up Counseling Services?

Absolutely! There is no requirement to like or play video games to receive counseling services. We strive to make sure the counseling experience is unique and tailored to each person. Feel free to tell your counselor what your hobbies or interests are during your consultation or first session!