FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Many people have questions about the process of counseling. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.


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How does counseling work?
People seek counseling for many different reasons: a crisis, a loss, a major life change, to sort things out to have a happier life, or to improve relationships. Counseling begins with an initial meeting with the therapist to gather information and history in order to develop a plan to meet each individual’s/family’s needs. Counseling may include individual, group, and/or family sessions.
How long does it take?
Each session lasts typically 50 minutes. Your therapist will establish with you a regular schedule based on your specific need. A person may come to counseling once or twice or may choose to continue counseling until they have met their goals for life improvement.
How much does counseling cost?
We have therapists available at the following levels and fees.

  • Licensed Therapists are licensed by the State of California to provide counseling services. Fees range from $80 to $150 per session.
  • Psychological Assistants have a Doctor’s degree in psychology and are working toward their licensure. They are registered with the Board of Psychology to practice therapy under the supervision of a licensed psychologist. Their fees range from $50-$95 per session.
  • Registered interns have a Master’s or Doctor’s degree in counseling or psychology and are working toward their licensure. They are registered with the Board of Behavioral Sciences to practice therapy under the supervision of a licensed therapist. Their fees range from $35-$90 per session.
  • Trainees are advanced students enrolled in a graduate program in counseling. The trainees are also under the supervision of a licensed therapist. Fees are $25 per session.
  • The Good Samaritan Fund exists to enable counseling for clients, especially pastors and their families, who would otherwise not be able to afford counseling.
Will what I share be kept private?
All of your conversations with the CCC staff are completely confidential (except where mandated otherwise by law, as in the case of child abuse and/or elder abuse or imminent danger to yourself or others).
Do you offer services to teenagers and children?
Yes. Children often have a difficult time “talking” about their feelings. A variety of methods including art, play and family therapy are used to help children express their feelings and solve problems. Teenagers are often helped by having individual sessions, participating in a group, or by family therapy. Teenagers can help the therapist decide what works best for them.
What kind of training does your staff have?
Each of our licensed staff members has either a Master’s or Doctoral degree in counseling or psychology. Each is licensed by the State of California to practice counseling.

Our registered interns have a Master’s or Doctor’s degree in counseling or psychology and are working toward their licensure. They are registered with the Board of Behavioral Sciences to practice therapy under the supervision of a licensed therapist.

Our trainees are advanced students enrolled in a graduate program in counseling. They are also under the supervision of a licensed therapist.
Do I have to be a Christian to receive services at the Christian Counseling Center?
No. The Christian Counseling Center does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, class, culture or sexual orientation. All are welcome to come for counseling services. The therapists at CCC respect our clients’ choices regarding spirituality and faith. While all of the therapists are committed to a personal relationship with Christ, they also understand that everyone has their own spiritual path to experience. We welcome the opportunity to discuss the client’s spiritual journey and what it has meant to him or her – regardless of religious preference. Some of our clients choose not to discuss their spiritual beliefs during therapy, and this is fine, too.
What is an MFT?
The term MFT stands for Marriage and Family Therapist, and is the official terminology used by the State of California. The term LMFT stands for Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. They specialize specifically in relationship issues.
What is a Psychologist?
A Psychologist is a licensed professional who has completed a graduate program in Psychology that includes clinical training and internships, and who provides care for individuals with mental and emotional problems. Psychologists typically have a doctorate degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) and have undergone postdoctoral training; however, they are not physicians and cannot prescribe medication.

Psychologists are trained in a variety of psychotherapeutic techniques rather than in one particular school or theory.
What is a Psychiatrist?
A Psychiatrist is a licensed medical doctor (M.D.) who has had specialized postgraduate training in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental and emotional disorders. Psychiatrists are the only mental health professional licensed to prescribe medication. Board-certified psychiatrists have passed national oral and written examinations after completing a residency program in psychiatry.
What agency licenses MFTs in California?
Marriage and Family Therapists are regulated and licensed by the Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS).

What agency licenses Psychologists in California?
Psychologists are regulated and licensed by the Board of Psychology.

How many counseling sessions will I need?
The number of sessions depends on several factors, including but not limited to the goals for therapy, the severity of the issues encountered, and of course, the client’s willingness to actively participate.
What if I have to cancel my counseling session?
There is no charge for any session cancelled 24 or more hours prior to the scheduled time. However, sessions cancelled with less than 24 hours notice will be charged full fee.
Will my insurance company pay for counseling?
Many PPO plans will, and many HMO plans will not. So keep in mind that payment is expected at the time of service, and that reimbursement is the responsibility of the client. Be sure to check with your insurance company to determine if the type of counseling you’d like is covered, and in addition, that the percentages and maximums that apply for out-of-network providers like our therapists are acceptable to you.
Where is your office and what are your hours?
Our offices are located in the Chantel Building at 3880 S. Bascom Avenue between Hwy 85 and Camden Avenue, in San Jose, California.,

Google Maps for a map and directions

We have daytime, evening, and weekend appointments available depending on your therapist. Please call for availability. Call us at (408) 559-1115.
How do I start counseling?
Simply contact our office manager Alexandra to discuss matching you with a therapist that best meets your needs. Once Alexandra refers you to a therapist, you will be able to discuss with that therapist an appropriate schedule for your first appointment.

Call us at (408) 559-1115.