Frequently Asked Questions
We know that reaching out for counseling can feel like a big step. These are some of the most common questions we hear from new clients — we hope they help you feel informed, at ease, and ready to take that next step toward healing.
About Christian Counseling:
What is Christian counseling? Christian counseling integrates proven, evidence-based therapeutic approaches with a faith-centered perspective. Our counselors are trained mental health professionals who also honor the role that faith, values, and spiritual well-being play in a person's overall health.
Do I have to be a Christian to come to Mt. Hope? Not at all. You are welcome here regardless of your faith background or beliefs. Our counselors respect every person's spiritual journey and will never pressure you to adopt any particular viewpoint. What matters most to us is that you feel safe, heard, and supported.
How is Christian counseling different from regular therapy? The therapeutic techniques are largely the same — Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, trauma-informed approaches, evidence-based methods — but Christian counseling adds the dimension of faith as a resource for healing when the client desires it. Think of it as whole-person care that does not leave your spiritual life at the door.
Is Christian counseling only for people with religious problems? No. People come to us with the full range of human struggles — anxiety, depression, grief, relationship difficulties, trauma, life transitions, and more. Faith is a lens through which we can approach those challenges, not a prerequisite for the work.
Getting Started:
How do I make an appointment? You can book online through our website or call us directly at (417) 624-9659. We will help match you with the right counselor based on your needs, schedule, and preferences.
What happens at my first session? Your first session is simply a conversation. Your counselor will take time to listen to your story, understand what has brought you in, and learn what matters most to you. There is no pressure to have everything figured out — just come as you are. From there, you and your counselor will work together to set goals and build a plan that fits your life.
How do I know which counselor is right for me? Our team will help you find the best fit based on your specific needs and goals. If at any point you feel the counseling relationship is not the right match, we will work with you to transition to another counselor on our team — finding the right fit matters to us.
Do you offer a free consultation? We encourage you to call us at (417) 624-9659 to speak with a team member before booking. We are happy to answer your questions and help you determine whether Mt. Hope is the right fit for you.
Sessions & Scheduling:
How long are sessions? Sessions are 60 minutes long.
How often will I need to come? Most clients begin with weekly sessions, which allows for consistency and momentum in the early stages of counseling. As you progress, your counselor may recommend moving to bi-weekly or monthly sessions. Ultimately the pace is tailored to your needs and goals.
How many sessions will I need? Every person's journey is different. Some clients find meaningful progress in 6–8 sessions, while others benefit from longer-term support. Your counselor will regularly check in on your progress and adjust the plan accordingly — there is no one-size-fits-all timeline.
Is everything I share confidential? Yes. Confidentiality is a cornerstone of counseling. What you share in sessions stays between you and your counselor. There are a small number of legal exceptions — such as imminent risk of harm to yourself or others — which your counselor will explain fully at your first appointment.
Do you offer telehealth or virtual sessions? Please contact our office at (417) 624-9659 to ask about current telehealth availability.
Rates & Payment:
What are your session rates? Our licensed counselors charge between $100 and $175 per session depending on the service type. Sessions with our intern counselors are available at $85 per session for all service types. See our full rates on the Services & Fees page.
What is an intern counselor? Intern counselors are graduate-level students completing their supervised clinical training under the direct oversight of a licensed professional counselor at Mt. Hope. They bring current training, genuine dedication, and attentive care to every session — at a reduced rate. All intern sessions are fully supervised to ensure the highest standard of care.
Do you accept insurance? Mt. Hope Christian Counseling Center is a private pay practice and does not bill insurance directly. However, we do provide superbills upon request.
What is a superbill? A superbill is a detailed, itemized receipt of your counseling services that includes the information your insurance company needs to process a claim. You can submit it directly to your insurance provider for potential out-of-network reimbursement. Many insurance plans cover a portion of out-of-network mental health services — we recommend calling your insurance provider and asking about your out-of-network mental health benefits before your first appointment.
What forms of payment do you accept? Please contact our office at (417) 624-9659 for information on accepted payment methods.
For Parents & Families:
My teenager does not want to come to counseling. What should I do? This is very common. Teens often feel more open to counseling when they have some say in the process — such as choosing their counselor or knowing their sessions are confidential. We are happy to speak with you as a parent first to help you think through the best approach for your child.
Will you share what my teen says in sessions with me? Adolescent sessions are confidential, which is essential for building the trust that makes counseling effective. Your counselor will communicate with you about general progress and will always involve parents if there is a safety concern. The specific details of what your teen shares remain private.
Can we do a mix of individual and family sessions? Absolutely. Many families find it helpful to combine individual sessions for specific family members with joint family sessions. Your counselor will work with you to find the right combination for your situation.
Still Have Questions?
We would love to hear from you. Call us at (417) 624-9659 or use the contact form on our website and a member of our team will get back to you promptly.
Taking that first step is the hardest part — we are honored to walk the rest of the journey with you.