FAQ ~ Counseling
At Creative Family Counseling and Coaching, we want you to feel informed and supported. Below are answers to common questions about our services, process, and policies.
Do I need to schedule an appointment?
Yes. All counseling and play therapy sessions must be scheduled in advance.
To schedule, call our main line at (770) 648-2500 ext. 505. Pam, our Intake Specialist, will help match you with your preferred therapist—or recommend the best fit based on your needs.
We offer flexible scheduling, including evening appointments, to support busy families.
What should I expect at the first counseling session?
In your first session, we’ll gather personal and family history to better understand your needs.
For child and teen counseling, the initial appointment is parents-only. This gives you time to share concerns, ask questions, and help us gather important background—without your child present.
In the next session, we’ll meet with your child or teen individually to begin therapy. From there, your therapist will create a personalized treatment plan, including frequency of sessions and whether individual, family, or play therapy is most appropriate.
When does a child or teen need therapy?
It’s normal for children to go through phases, but some behaviors may signal deeper distress.
Your child may benefit from counseling or play therapy if they:
Struggle to adjust to life changes (e.g. divorce, moves, loss)
Seem persistently anxious, angry, or withdrawn
Experience academic or behavioral challenges
Have trouble coping for an extended period of time
We specialize in child counseling in Buford, GA using evidence-based play therapy to support emotional healing and growth.
How should I explain play therapy to my child?
You can simply say:
“You’ll be coming each week to a special playroom to play and talk. It helps kids feel better, and most kids say it’s really fun!”
We want children to feel safe, seen, and understood—and play is their natural language.
What if the parents are divorced?
If you share joint legal custody, we need written consent from both parents unless there are safety concerns.
If you have sole legal custody, we can proceed with one parent’s consent. However, when appropriate, involving both parents often helps the child feel more supported and accelerates healing.
Is counseling confidential?
Yes, with a few legal exceptions. Your information is protected and confidential. We will not release any information without your written permission—except in the following situations:
If someone’s life is in danger
If there is suspected child, elder, or disabled person abuse
If you request information be shared
If ordered by a court
Using health insurance also requires us to share limited information with your provider, including your diagnosis.
Do you accept insurance?
We primarily operate as a private pay counseling practice to preserve confidentiality and flexibility.
Private pay ensures:
Your mental health records stay private
No diagnosis is added to your child’s medical record
You and your therapist choose your care—not your insurance company
We are currently in-network with:
Aetna
Health Partners
Alliant
Healthgram
Benefit Support
For all other plans, we can provide a Superbill for you to file for Out-of-Network reimbursement.
How much do counseling sessions cost?
Initial intake or family session: $175
Ongoing 50-minute individual or play therapy session: $150
We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, and HSA cards. We do not accept cash.
Can I cancel my appointment?
Yes, with notice. If you need to cancel or reschedule, please contact your therapist at least 48 business hours in advance.
Late cancellations (less than 48 business hours) will incur a $100 fee, as that time is reserved just for you.
What if I’m late to my session?
Sessions start on time and end on time. If you arrive late, the remaining time will be used.
If you are more than 20 minutes late, the session will be canceled and charged as a missed appointment.
What should I do in a crisis or emergency?
If you are in a medical or mental health emergency, please seek immediate assistance.
Call 911 for life-threatening emergencies.
Contact Northeast Georgia Medical Center at (770) 219-9000 for 24/7 mental health support.
Call the Georgia Crisis & Access Line (GCAL) at 1-800-715-4225.
Call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988—available 24/7, nationwide, and confidential.