Frequently Asked Questions

Therapy for young adults can provide a safe space for them to explore their emotions, learn coping skills, and develop a better understanding of themselves. It can help improve mental health, build resilience, enhance communication skills, and foster personal growth and self-awareness.

The ADHD evaluation process for individuals under 18 focuses on childhood behavior and symptoms. Healthcare providers use rating scales, diagnostic criteria, and behavioral assessments to determine if ADHD is present in children or adolescents. Information is gathered from parents, teachers, and healthcare professionals who have observed the child in various settings. Proper diagnosis in childhood is crucial for providing appropriate treatment and support.

Treating anxiety issues, regardless of gender, typically involves a combination of individual therapy, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, medication. At the Banyan Tree, we offer holistic individual counseling services that focus on understanding the root cause and symptoms of your anxiety. Counseling approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness techniques, and stress management strategies can be particularly effective.

We advocate for a balanced lifestyle that includes regular exercise, a nutritious diet, adequate sleep, and mindfulness practices. In some instances, medication may be recommended in conjunction with therapy, and we can provide referrals to appropriate healthcare professionals. 

It's important to remember that every person is unique, so what works for one person might not work for another. That's why we tailor each mental health treatment to meet the specific needs and preferences of the individual. If you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety, we encourage you to reach out to us.

Recognizing a good therapist who specializes in women's issues requires considering several factors.

First, they should have relevant qualifications and experience in the field of women's health. Their therapeutic approach should be holistic, addressing the unique emotional, social, and physical needs women often encounter. Second, they should create a safe and comfortable environment where you feel seen, heard, and validated. Finally, a good therapist should demonstrate cultural competency, understanding how different cultural, societal, and personal factors can influence a woman's experience. They should tailor their therapeutic strategies to align with your own community, unique needs, and circumstances.

At the Banyan Tree, our therapists embody these qualities, focusing on their relationships and a personalized approach to support women in all aspects of their lives.

Choosing a therapist is a highly personal decision and depends on your comfort level. Some women may prefer to work with a female therapist due to shared gender experiences or comfort in discussing certain issues. However, the effectiveness and satisfaction of therapy largely depends on the quality of the therapeutic relationship, not the therapist's gender. At the Banyan Tree, we offer our sessions with a diverse team of experienced therapists and aim to match each client with the therapist best suited to their unique needs and comfort level. It's essential to choose a therapist with whom you feel comfortable discussing your concerns, regardless of their gender.

Therapy can be beneficial for women at any time, regardless of their life stage or circumstances. It's particularly important to consider seeking therapy when experiencing feelings of overwhelming stress, anxiety, sadness, or other emotional distress that interfere with daily activities. Major life transitions, relationship issues, divorce, grief, and trauma are also common reasons for seeking therapy. Changes in eating or sleeping habits, persistent feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness, or thoughts of self-harm are urgent signals to reach out to a professional. At the Banyan Tree, we provide a safe and supportive environment for women to navigate these challenges and promote their general well-being.

At the Banyan Tree, our therapists can assist women with a multitude of issues. These may include managing life transitions like marriage, motherhood or menopause, dealing with reproductive and sexual health issues, coping with gender-based violence or harassment, and navigating professional challenges such as workplace discrimination or balancing career and family. Additionally, therapists can help address mental health concerns like anxiety, depression, eating disorders, body image issues, and self-esteem problems. They also provide support for relationship problems, personal growth, loss and grief, and stress management. Therapy is a personal journey, and our therapists are here to help with whatever challenges you're facing.

Women's issues in therapy refer to a range of challenges and experiences that are unique to or more common among women. These issues may include postpartum depression, body image and eating disorders, gender discrimination or gender role stress, self-esteem issues, domestic violence, and sexual assault trauma.

Women's therapy refers to a specialized type of therapy that focuses on issues specific to women, including maternal mental health, body image concerns, fertility issues, aging, menopause, domestic violence, sexual abuse, career pressures, and societal expectations. At the Banyan Tree, our women's therapy is tailored to address these unique concerns, offering a supportive environment for women to explore, understand, and navigate their individual challenges. The ultimate goal is to enhance their emotional well-being, resilience, and self-empowerment.

Yes, a child can certainly refuse to talk to a therapist or counselor. Especially in the initial sessions, it's quite common for children to feel shy or uncertain. At the Banyan Tree, we respect a child's feelings and pace, and our skilled therapists are trained to gently engage with children to help them feel comfortable. Building a trusting and supportive relationship takes time and patience, and our team is committed to ensuring that children feel safe and empowered during their counseling journey.

At the Banyan Tree, the duration of therapy for children varies significantly, as it's highly dependent on the child's unique needs and the specific issues being addressed. Some children may benefit from short-term therapy spanning a few weeks or months, while others may require a more extended approach that lasts one year or more. It's important to remember that every child's therapeutic journey is different, and our experienced therapists will work closely with you and your child to determine the best course of action. Regular reviews will be conducted to assess progress and adjust treatment plans as necessary.

Many teenagers can benefit greatly from therapy. Adolescence is a period of significant change and growth, which can sometimes be challenging. Teen therapy provides a safe, non-judgmental space for your teen to express their feelings, understand their emotions better, and learn effective coping strategies. Counseling can help them navigate issues like academic stress, social anxiety, peer pressure, self-esteem concerns, and family conflicts. At the Banyan Tree, our skilled therapists are well-versed in working with adolescents and can provide the support your teen needs to thrive during these pivotal years.

At the Banyan Tree, therapy provides a safe and supportive environment for children and teens to express their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Our trained therapists use age-appropriate techniques, such as play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and creative arts to help younger clients communicate their feelings and understand their experiences.

By building a relationship of trust, therapists are able to assist children and teens in exploring and managing their emotions, improving their communication skills, and developing coping strategies for life's challenges. This process of self-understanding and skill-building can lead to increased self-esteem, better relationships, and improved mental well-being. Each therapy plan is individualized to respect the uniqueness of every child and teen, their developmental stage, and their specific challenges. The goal of therapy is not only to address current problems but also to equip children and teens with the skills to navigate future challenges.

Child and adolescent counseling can benefit young individuals who are experiencing challenges with behavior, emotions, social interactions, or academic performance. It can help those undergoing significant life changes, such as parental divorce, school transitions, or the loss of a loved one. It can also assist children and teens who are dealing with mental health concerns, including anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD, and other emotional or psychological difficulties. Counseling provides support for young individuals dealing with trauma or stress and aids in developing resilience, self-esteem, and coping skills. Any child or teenager striving for a healthier mental and emotional state can benefit greatly from our counseling services.

At the Banyan Tree, you can expect a nurturing, safe, and engaging environment where children can express themselves openly. Our expert child therapists employ age-appropriate techniques, including play, art, and talk therapy, to help children communicate their feelings and work through their issues. We focus on building trust and rapport between the family therapist and child to facilitate open conversation and understanding. Our approach is tailored to the child's individual needs, and our therapists work in close collaboration with parents and caregivers to ensure a consistent and supportive approach across the child’s environments.

Counseling sessions can help children manage a variety of issues, such as anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, and life transitions. The goal is to provide the child with healthy coping strategies, improved self-esteem, and better emotional regulation. Parents and caregivers are also provided guidance to support their child's therapeutic journey. Every child's therapy journey is unique, and progress occurs at their own pace. Our therapists are committed to providing a positive and empowering family therapy experience for every child.

The best therapy for children often depends on their unique needs and circumstances. At the Banyan Tree, we often use play therapy for younger children, as it allows them to express their feelings and thoughts in a language they know best: play. For older children and teens, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can be particularly effective, as it helps them identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. We believe in a personalized approach, so we tailor our therapeutic techniques to best suit each child's individual needs. An initial consultation with our skilled therapists can help determine the most beneficial therapeutic approach for your child's behavior.

Family counseling, also known as couples and family therapy, is a form of therapy that focuses on improving communication and resolving conflicts within a family unit. It involves sessions with a trained therapist who helps family members identify and address issues affecting their relationships.

It varies depending on the approach and style of your mental health professional at the Banyan Tree. Some may provide "homework" or activities to do between sessions as part of your therapeutic journey. These can be invaluable tools to help reinforce what you learn during therapy. However, it's important to discuss any concerns or preferences with your therapist to ensure your therapy is tailored to your comfort and needs. The goal is to make your therapy beneficial and manageable for you.

Yes, family counseling can be extremely effective. At the Banyan Tree, we have seen many families make significant strides in improving their relationships and overall dynamics. By providing a safe, structured environment for open dialogue, our therapists help families develop healthier communication patterns, resolve conflicts, and foster mutual understanding. It's important to remember that progress varies depending on individual circumstances and the commitment of all involved family members to attend family therapy. But in our experience, families who fully engage in the counseling process often experience positive, long-lasting change.

Conflict is natural in any relationship, and our therapists guide families in honing their communication skills for healthier conflict resolution. We recognize the importance of each family member feeling understood and heard, fostering an environment of mutual support for emotional well-being. Our counseling services are personalized to align with your family's specific needs and encourage active participation in the healing process.

To enhance family dynamics, we utilize evidence-based techniques, including cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused talk therapy, and narrative therapy. Our aim is not only resolving current conflicts but also equipping families with skills to prevent future escalations. At the Banyan Tree, we place importance on a healthy balance between individual needs and collective family well-being. By nurturing each member's emotional health and well-being, we help foster a harmonious family environment.

Family counseling typically includes various therapeutic techniques and interventions tailored to meet the unique needs of each family. These may include:

1. Individual family counseling sessions: Individual sessions allow each family member to express their thoughts, emotions, and concerns in a safe and confidential environment.

2. Group sessions: In group sessions, all family members come together to discuss their issues and work toward finding solutions as a unit.

3. Communication skills training and education: Effective communication is vital for healthy relationships within a family. Family counseling may focus on improving communication patterns, teaching active listening skills, and helping family members express their needs and feelings in a constructive manner.

4. Conflict resolution: Family counseling helps families develop strategies for resolving conflicts and managing disagreements in a respectful and peaceful way.

5. Parenting skills: Family therapy may involve providing guidance and support to parents in developing effective parenting techniques and strategies.

6. Problem-solving: Family counseling equips families with problem-solving skills that can be applied to various situations, enabling them to navigate difficulties more effectively.

7. Emotional support: A key aspect of family counseling is providing emotional support to each family member, fostering a sense of validation, understanding, and empathy. The family therapist also creates a safe space where family members can openly express their emotions and receive support from one another.

8. Building resilience: Family counseling aims to build resilience within the family unit by identifying and strengthening coping mechanisms and promoting adaptability in the face of challenges.

9. Healing past wounds: Family therapy may address unresolved issues from the past that continue to impact the present dynamics of the family. By exploring these wounds and working toward healing, families can move forward with greater harmony.

10. Strengthening family relationships: Ultimately, family counseling seeks to strengthen relationships within the family by fostering a sense of unity, trust, and mutual understanding. Through open communication and active participation in the therapeutic process, family members can develop a deeper appreciation for one another and build stronger connections.

At the Banyan Tree, our family counseling services are tailored to address each family's unique needs and challenges. Our therapists foster a safe, supportive space where families can collaboratively work toward positive change. In family therapy, our primary focus is on conflict resolution, equipping families with effective communication skills to navigate disagreements constructively. We also emphasize emotional support, aiming for each family member to feel heard, validated, and understood to encourage a supportive, empathetic environment.

Integrative counseling improves mental health challenges by offering a holistic approach to addressing various aspects of mental health issues. It combines evidence-based techniques with alternative practices to provide a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to individual needs. By incorporating different modalities such as talk therapy, mindfulness practices, art therapy, or body-centered techniques, integrative counseling helps individuals gain self-awareness, develop coping skills, manage symptoms of anxiety disorders or depression, and enhance overall well-being. This integrated approach recognizes that mental health is influenced by multiple factors and aims to support healing and personal growth on all levels—mind, body, and spirit.

Counseling can certainly help improve self-esteem. Through therapy, you will have the opportunity to explore and address underlying issues that contribute to low self-esteem. Our therapists can provide guidance, support, and tools to help you develop a more positive self-perception and build confidence in various areas of your life.

Yes, there is research that supports the effectiveness of integrative counseling and wellness. Studies have shown that this approach can lead to improved mental health outcomes, reduced symptoms of an anxiety disorder and depression, increased self-awareness and self-confidence, and enhanced overall well-being. Integrative counseling combines evidence-based techniques with alternative practices, allowing individuals to benefit from a wide range of therapeutic interventions. The holistic nature and counseling style of integrative counseling also recognizes the importance of addressing the mind, body, and spirit in achieving optimal wellness. If you're seeking a comprehensive approach to healing and personal growth, integrative counseling with a licensed professional counselor may be a great fit for you.

In an integrative counseling session with a licensed therapist, you can expect a personalized approach that addresses your specific needs and goals. The therapist will work collaboratively with you to create a treatment plan that may include traditional talk therapy as well as other approaches, such as mindfulness practices, art therapy, or body-centered techniques.

Integrative counseling combines traditional therapy techniques with alternative and complementary practices. Through this method, therapists, such as family therapists, offer clients a holistic approach to healing.

Integrative counseling and wellness is an approach that combines traditional therapy techniques with alternative and complementary practices to promote holistic healing. It focuses on addressing the mind, body, and spirit to achieve overall well-being and balance in an individual's life.

Simply put, it is a way to enrich your life. Counseling can increase emotional, mental, and physical well-being. It can improve relationships and enhance the quality of day-to-day life. Counseling and psychotherapy restores hope and gives direction as individuals and families address personal and emotional challenges. We provide a setting of safety, confidentiality, and acceptance. This allows the client to fully explore what they want to talk about. Together, the counselor and the client will create new ways to effectively find the best course of action.

The process of human growth and development has often been compared to the growth of a tree. The more rooted we are, the stronger we are and the greater our capacity to reach great heights. We chose the Banyan Tree for our image because it most accurately represents the process of an individual’s growth. As it first grows, a Banyan tree has a single trunk or support system, but as time passes and experiences of learning and skill development take deeper root, the branches of wisdom form. New experiences reach out by sending down new roots or "experiments" that sway in the breeze until reaching the ground and taking root. The individual's support system spreads as the roots deepen and become themselves to support further personal growth and development. Through a willingness to gain new skills and develop additional and deeper roots, the tree (or self) becomes much more than one had ever imagined. Past, present, and future intertwine, as do the roots and branches, under the flourishing canopy. The story of the tree is like the story of one's life, continually growing and expressing the wisdom inherent in the necessary risk of such growing.

Yes! Not only do we believe it can, there is a substantial amount of research to support the idea that counseling works. We understand that you may feel skeptical and uncertain. Perhaps you or someone you know has tried it before with no success. We encourage you to try it anyway. The greatest predictor of counseling effectiveness is the relationship formed between the client and therapist. Browse our staff pages and contact our intake coordinator for a free consultation to determine if someone on our staff would be a good fit to work with you. Counseling works when you find the right fit.

Our typical clients are between the ages of 13 and 65+. They come to improve their lives in many different areas, including personal, school, career, and family. They may have relationship problems, addictions, parenting challenges, difficulties managing stress, depression. or anxiety. They may be learning to cope better with life's difficulties, such as illness, finding meaning in life, transitions, and decision-making. Maybe you've heard of people going to counseling and because of a stigma or belief that it was for people with "real problems," you hesitated to contact a therapist. Counseling teaches truly effective ways to deal with common, everyday irritations as well as more entrenched patterns of living. At the Banyan Tree, we can help you with whatever concern prompted you to look into our services. If we don't work with your particular concern, we will help you find someone who does. So whatever you're facing, please contact us. You will be taking a big first step to living the life you want to live!

Counseling is a confidential process. We adhere to strict professional standards of ethics and confidentiality. We are required by practice guidelines and standards of care to keep records of your counseling sessions. However, information can only be released with your permission and written consent unless mandated by law. You should be aware; however, that there are a few exceptions regarding confidentiality. For example, therapists are required to take appropriate action when a client is judged to be in imminent danger of harming oneself or threatens grave bodily harm to another person, and this action supersedes confidentiality. We must also report all incidents of child or elder abuse, whether it has already occurred or is likely to occur. Finally, under certain circumstances, confidentiality may be superseded by a court order. If you have any questions regarding confidentiality, bring them to the attention of your therapist.

Our purpose is to help you resolve problem areas in your life. Although no one can solve your problems for you, we are trained to help people cope more effectively with their difficulties. We will do our best to understand you as a unique individual and help you work through your difficulties. We will listen, understand, and help you to the fullest extent of our professional training and experience. It is your responsibility to help us understand your life situation, thoughts, and feelings and to have the courage to try to master your problem areas. As a patient, you have the following rights:

• To ask for and receive information about our qualifications, including licensure, education, training, experience, membership in professional organizations, specific areas of practice, and limits on practice
• To have written information before therapy about fees, method of payment, insurance coverage, number of sessions that may be needed, on-call therapists used in case of vacations and emergencies, and cancellation policies
• To refuse to answer any question or give any information you choose not to answer or give
• To know if your case will be discussed with others (for instance, supervisors or consultants) and what information will be shared
• To ask about your progress
• To have any therapy procedure, including pros and cons of its use, explained to you before it is used
• To end treatment at any time (However, please schedule at least one session with your therapist before terminating treatment.)

Clients under 18 years of age who are not emancipated and their parents should be aware that the law allows parents to examine their child's treatment records unless we believe that doing so would endanger the child or we agree otherwise. Because privacy in counseling is often crucial to successful progress, particularly with teenagers, it is our policy to request an agreement from parents that they consent to give up their access to their child's records. If they agree, during treatment, we will provide them only with general information about the progress of the child's treatment and their attendance at scheduled sessions. Any other communication will require the child's authorization, unless we feel that the child is in danger or is a danger to someone else. In that case, we will notify the parents of our concern. Before giving parents any information, we will discuss the matter with the child, if possible, and do our best to handle any objections they may have.

Mental health professionals differ in many respects from other healthcare providers. Unlike most physicians, dentists, and other professionals who work on flexible and inexact schedules, we commit a specific time period to each client. Therefore, it is important for you to appreciate the fact that a block of time has been set aside for you only. Our schedules can be crowded. Canceling or rescheduling an appointment without sufficient notice often means the loss of an hour of therapy to someone else that needed the appointment time. Therefore, we ask that you give at least 48 hours notice if you cannot be at the appointment for which you have contracted. If no notice of your cancellation is received, or if less than 24 hours notice is given, YOU WILL BE CHARGED A FEE FOR THE MISSED APPOINTMENT. Of course, rescheduling an appointment can be done at any time if there is an emergency or unexpected illness. Cancellation messages can be left on the voicemail. To prevent any confusion about your appointment time, always keep your appointment card. If a mistake is made, your appointment card is your means of verification.

Due to the nature of their work and the complexity of their schedules, our counselors are often not immediately available by telephone. The Banyan Tree phone number (706-850-7041) is answered Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. by our office manager and intake coordinators. During other times, it is answered by a confidential answering machine, and calls will be returned by our office manager during the times listed above. The answering machine is also monitored once or twice daily during weekends and holidays. Please speak clearly and give numbers slowly, since we may not have any way to look up your number. If you have an urgent need, please make this very clear in your message. However, since we do not carry pagers, there may be a delay in our receiving your call request. If you are unable to reach us and feel that you can't wait for a return call, please contact your family physician or the nearest emergency room or mental health crisis center. If your counselor will be unavailable for an extended time, we will provide you, via our outgoing message, with the name of a colleague to contact, if necessary.