Frequently Asked Questions

How do I schedule an appointment?

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​1. Book Online: Visit our website and use the online scheduling tool to select an available time that works best for you.

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2. Email: Send an email to jocelynchavez@casaamarillo.onmicrosoft.com, and we’ll get back to you with appointment options.

If you have any questions, feel free to ask. 

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What is your availability?

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We strive to offer flexible appointment times to accommodate your schedule. We have evening and sometimes weekend slots available.

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Do you offer teletherapy or in-person sessions?

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At this time, sessions are held virtually. 

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What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule a session?

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If you need to cancel or reschedule a session, please let us know as soon as possible. We ask that you provide at least 24 hours' notice to avoid any cancellation fees. We understand that unexpected things can come up and will do our best to accommodate your needs.

What should I expect in the first session?

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Expect a safe, welcoming environment where you can speak openly. In your first session, we'll take time to get to know each other and discuss what brings you to therapy. We'll explore your goals, concerns, and any questions you may have. This session is a chance for us to understand your needs and create a plan together for your therapy journey.

We’ll cover practical details, like confidentiality, session structure, and what you can expect from our work together. It's natural to feel nervous, but the first session is all about helping you feel comfortable and supported.

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How long is each therapy session?

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Individual Therapy: Usually around 50 minutes.

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How many sessions will I need?

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The number of sessions you'll need depends on your unique goals and situation. Some people find they benefit from just a few sessions for specific issues, while others may prefer ongoing support over a longer period.

During our first few sessions, we'll assess your needs and develop a plan tailored to you. Therapy is a highly individualized process, so the pace and duration will be adjusted to suit your progress and comfort. Ultimately, the decision is up to you, and we’ll work together to determine what feels right for you.

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Is therapy confidential? What are the limits of confidentiality?

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Yes, therapy is confidential. This means that everything you share with your therapist is private and will not be shared with anyone without your permission. Confidentiality is a key part of creating a safe and trusting environment in therapy.

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However, there are a few legal and ethical limits to confidentiality. Therapists are required to break confidentiality if:

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1. There is a risk of harm to yourself or others: If you are in danger of harming yourself or someone else, your therapist may need to take action to keep you or others safe.

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2. There is suspected abuse or neglect: Therapists are mandated reporters, so they must report any suspected abuse or neglect of vulnerable individuals (such as children, elderly, or disabled persons).

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3. Court orders: In rare cases, a court may require your therapist to release records or provide testimony.

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These limits are in place to protect safety and comply with the law. If you have any concerns or questions about confidentiality, please feel free to discuss them with your therapist.

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• What happens if I have a crisis or emergency between sessions?

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If you experience a crisis or emergency between sessions, it’s important to reach out for immediate support. While your therapist may not be available outside of scheduled sessions, here are a few options:

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1. Emergency Services: If you’re in immediate danger or facing a crisis, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

2. Crisis Helplines: Many areas have crisis helplines or text services that can offer immediate assistance.

3. Contacting Your Therapist: If it’s not an immediate emergency but you need support, you can reach out to your therapist via phone or email to discuss the situation. They may be able to offer guidance or schedule an emergency session.

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• What if I am unsure about my goals in therapy?

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If you're unsure about your goals in therapy, that's completely okay! It’s common to start therapy without a clear idea of what you want to achieve. Your therapist will help guide you through the process of exploring what you’re hoping to work on.

In the beginning, the focus might be on gaining clarity, understanding your feelings, and identifying areas of your life where you'd like support. As you work together, your goals may become clearer. You and your therapist will regularly check in and adjust your goals as needed to make sure you’re heading in the direction that feels most helpful to you.

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Remember, therapy is a flexible process that evolves as you do.

What technology is required for teletherapy?

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1. Device

• A computer, tablet, or smartphone with a camera and microphone is essential for video sessions. A computer or tablet is generally preferred due to larger screen size, but smartphones can work for flexibility.

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2. Internet Connection

• A stable, high-speed internet connection (at least 3-5 Mbps) helps to prevent lagging or disruptions during sessions.

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3. Secure Environment

• The therapist and client should have a private, quiet space where they won’t be interrupted or overheard to maintain confidentiality.

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What happens if we experience technical issues during a session?

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Reschedule if Necessary

• If the problem disrupts the session significantly and can’t be resolved, offer to reschedule. Clarify your policy around rescheduling so clients know what to expect.

Yes, I do offer sliding scale fees to make therapy more accessible for clients who may need financial assistance. Here’s how it works:

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1. Sliding Scale: Based on individual financial circumstances, I offer a reduced fee option. This can be helpful for clients who may not have insurance coverage or for whom standard fees may be a barrier to accessing therapy.

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2. Eligibility: The sliding scale is typically offered to clients with financial constraints, such as students, low-income individuals, or those experiencing temporary financial hardship. We can discuss your specific situation to determine eligibility.

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3. Adjustable Fee Structure: Sliding scale fees are set on a case-by-case basis, taking into account factors like income level, family size, and financial obligations. This way, we can create a fee structure that is manageable for you.

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4. Availability: Since sliding scale spots are limited, I may offer them based on availability.