Why should I seek counseling?
Each individual, couple, and group is unique, and reasons for seeing a therapist. Ultimately, therapy is about providing a safe space in which, with the help of a trained and nonjudgmental provider, clients such as yourself can learn to exercise your agency where possible, to empower and help yourself.
Why should I seek counseling at Access California Services?
AccessCal’s mantra emphasizes the innate dignity of a person, and we believe mental health in integral to that. AccessCal operates on a community-based model, and providers take into consideration clients’ cultural and spiritual needs and perspectives. Our therapists are pre-licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (MFT) and Clinical Social Workers working under a licensed supervisor. Currently, we can offer therapy in English, Dari, and Arabic.
What type of counseling services do we offer?
- • Psychotherapy for: individuals, couples, families, children and group
- • Common issues include: anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and other life stressors
- • Crisis Intervention (e.g. suicidal and/or homicidal ideation)
- • Parenting classes
- • General advocacy
How does counseling work?
Being comfortable with your counselor is the first step for effective counseling. In the first session, you will express your concerns and get to know your counselor and you will have the full right to ask any questions regarding expertise and the methods that will be used during sessions. Your counselor will go over important topics such as limits to confidentiality, and can help you identify preliminary goals. You can request a change of counselor at any time.
Therapy is not a quick fix for your problem, rather it is a process. With effort on your part and a strong relationship with your therapist, you will develop the tools and skills you need to move toward healing.
Will the counseling be confidential?
AccessCal therapists will not disclose any personal information without your written consent. However, there are a few exceptions: if the counselor thinks that you may harm yourself or someone else, if the counselor suspects any child or elder abuse, or if a court subpoenas the counselor’s records and testimony. These are the limits to confidentiality referred to in the previous question.
How long will the therapy take?
The length of therapy depends on the goals that you set with your counselor. Short term therapy usually takes 10-12 sessions, while more extensive therapy can take six months or longer. Typically, counseling is scheduled on a weekly basis.
How do I get started?
Call for an appointment today, and our counseling staff will schedule you with a counselor that meets your needs.