Family Matters of Coastal Georgia, Inc.

Unique Therapeutic approaches because your Family Matters

Q & A

Welcome to Family Matters of Coastal Georgia! We are excited that you have stopped by our web page and are interested in information about couseling services. You have taken the first step on your journey to a happier healthier you. It's' understandable that you have questions, we hope you will find this Q&A page helpful. Don't see your question here? Want clarification on something you've read here? We're just a click away! Click here and connect to our contact page. It's that easy, we want to help make your experience at FMCG and with counseling services as smooth and successful as possible.



Q. What is professional counseling?


A. Professional counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse individuals, families, and groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals. Counselors work with clients on strategies to overcome obstacles and personal challenges that they are facing.

~2014, American Counseling Association



Q. What is the Difference Between a Counselor, Therapist, Psychologist, and Psychiatrist?


Just click the different professional category below for a full description of each.
Counselor Therapist Psychologist Psychiatrist




Q. Do I really need therapy? Maybe I can handle this on my own...


A. No doubt you have handled situations in your life before on your own and most likely you feel as though you can do it again. But you don't have to go it alone. Therapy is for people who have enough self-awareness to realize they need a helping hand, and that is something to be admired. You are taking responsibility by accepting where you're at in life and making a commitment to change the situation by seeking therapy. Therapy provides long-lasting benefits and support, giving you the tools you need to avoid triggers, re-direct damaging patterns, and overcome whatever challenges you face.



Q. What is professional counseling? How long does counseling take? How long does counseling take?


A. Unless you are court mandated to attend therapy, the amount of time you spend in counseling will be up to you. Your therapist may encourage you to adhere to a specific schedule, and modify it as progress is made. People often enter counseling with ideas of what they wish to achieve, and how long it will take them to accomplish their goals. The course your counseling takes, and the length of that course, is directly related to where you want to go, what you want to learn, and what steps you are willing to take.

~ Keep in mind some insurance companies and managed care plans may limit the number of sessions for which they pay. Our experienced and highly trained insurance specialist will handle all the paperwork and billing for your counseling sessions at FMCG.



Q. Is counseling confidential?


A. YES! FMCG Confidentiality statement and policies are included in our New Patient Package. However, you can click here to view these policies separately now. The law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and a psychotherapist. Information is not disclosed without written permission with the following exceptions:

  • Suspected child abuse or dependant adult or elder abuse. The therapist is required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
  • If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person/s. The therapist must notify the police and inform the intended victim.
  • If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The therapist will make every effort to enlist their cooperation in insuring their safety. If they do not cooperate, further measures may be taken without their permission in order to ensure their safety.


Q. Does my insurance cover therapy?



A. Most insurance plans provide for some kind of mental healthcare benefits to receive services. We encourage you to contact your insurance carrier. Check your coverage carefully and look for this information:

  • Do I have mental health benefits?
  • What is my deductible and has it been met?
  • Is my primary care physician approval required?
  • Do my benefits include EAP services?

Our NEW PATIENT page lists insurance plans FMCG accepts. If you still have questions after contacting your insurance carrier, you may contact our insurance specialist and we'll assist you in navigating and understanding what your policy/coverage includes.