Sorry to make another thread but I didn't want my question to get lost in the rest of the discussion.

I know I said I would leave it up to DH but if we're doing counseling, I want the right counselor. Our insurance covers 8 visits and if more is needed we need to get preauthorization first. So, i'm going through this list of 50+ marriage/family counselors. It says nothing more about them than if they are male/female, phone number and where the office is located as well as if they are board certified. How do I choose the right one from that?!?!?! I'd love a religeous one but how do I choose one that does that? Do I just have to call a bunch and ask questions? If so, what are good questions to ask?

By Debbie on Wednesday, October 18, 2006 - 12:11 pm:

Yes, call and ask questions. I did the same thing when we were looking for one. I called 4 of them, and asked questions. I basically asked what approach they took. The one I chose said that he focused on communication. He asked leading questions to open important discussions, and he just guided things. He ended up being wonderful. And, if you pick one, and don't like him/her, don't hesitate to try another. You will know after 1 or 2 sessions if you feel comfortable with him/her. I also picked a male because I felt dh would be more comfortable, and I really didn't care.

By Cat on Wednesday, October 18, 2006 - 12:13 pm:

Try this site, Melissa. It's through Focus on the Family. They have a list of counselor and therapists that go through a some pretty extensive paperwork to be listed through them. We're seeing someone tomorrow that I got the name through them (specializes in teens). When you get some names through them you can cross reference them through Tricare to find the ones that will accept the insurance. Good luck and hugs.

By Boxzgrl on Wednesday, October 18, 2006 - 12:43 pm:

Thanks Cat. I just submitted a request.

By Ginny~moderator on Wednesday, October 18, 2006 - 03:02 pm:

Melissa, when I get home I'll post a link to a website of pastoral counselors. I know the group is nationwide. I know that some of them can be paid by insurance. But you'd still have to do the homework.

By Ginny~moderator on Wednesday, October 18, 2006 - 08:03 pm:

Melissa - American Association of Pastoral Counseling http://www.aapc.org/