Who is Advent Group Ministries?
Established in 1985, Advent Group Ministries is a 501c3 non-profit organization. Our diverse team of highly trained and compassionate counselors offers low-cost, faith-based therapy to children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. We believe that by lifting one person in need, we lift and strengthen our entire community. Our goal is to ensure that no one is turned away because they can’t afford the care they need.
What does it mean when you say you’re a faith-based organization?
As a Christian faith-based counseling center, we integrate biblical principles with therapeutic practices to offer guidance and support, addressing emotional and psychological issues through a spiritual lens. We aim to help individuals find healing and growth by aligning their mental well-being with their Christian beliefs and values.
What are the qualifications of your counselors?
We have three levels of counselors for you to choose from with a different fee structure for each.
Counseling Interns are individuals who are in the process of completing their required supervised clinical hours as part of their graduate education, working under close supervision and still learning practical skills.
Associates are recently graduated professionals who have obtained a master's or doctoral degree in counseling or a related field and are now working under supervision to gain the experience needed for full licensure.
Fully licensed therapists have completed all required supervised hours, passed licensing exams, and are authorized to practice independently, often bringing a wealth of experience and specialized training to their practice.
Regardless of the level of counselor you choose, you’ll receive high-quality, compassionate care. Research shows that with proper supervision, the counseling quality delivered by interns and associates is comparable to that of fully licensed counselors. This oversight ensures that these emerging professionals provide effective and reliable therapeutic support.
How much do you charge?
We have three levels of counseling services available:
Counseling Interns - $50 per session.
Associates - $115 per session
Fully Licensed Therapists - $165
For each level of service, we offer additional discounts on a sliding scale based on financial need/hardship. To learn more, you can discuss additional discounts when you schedule your first appointment. Our goal is to ensure no one is turned away because they can’t afford the care they need.
Will you bill my insurance?
Advent has contracts with Aetna, United Healthcare, Cigna, and Optum Care Network and can bill these companies directly for services. Coverage and benefits vary by plan, so please check with your provider to determine your specific benefits, coverage, and co-pay. In addition, coverage applies only to services provided by fully licensed therapists, not to those delivered by associates or interns.
For all other insurance plans, we will, upon request, provide a “super bill” which is a detailed invoice provided by the counselor that you can submit to your insurance company directly for reimbursement. Please check with your insurance company to determine your specific benefits, coverage, and co-pay.
I don’t have insurance and don’t have a lot of money, can I still get counseling?
Yes. Our goal is to ensure no one is turned away because they can’t afford the care they need. Our Counseling Intern fees start at $50 per session. However, further discounts are available on a sliding scale based on financial need/hardship. To learn more, you can discuss additional discounts when you schedule your first appointment.
Rest assured that you’ll still receive high-quality, compassionate care. Research shows that with proper supervision, the counseling quality delivered by interns and associates is comparable to fully licensed counselors. This oversight ensures that these emerging professionals provide effective and reliable therapeutic support.
Do you charge less for telehealth appointments vs. in-person office visits?
Our rates are the same for in-person and telehealth visits. However, you may find telehealth more convenient and less expensive in terms of travel time and costs associated with in-person visits.
How is a counselor chosen for me?
You can request a specific counselor by reviewing their qualifications and specialties here or one will be selected for you based on your specific area of interest and personal preferences as indicated on the Make An Appointment form.
Can I change counselors?
Yes. If for any reason you start the process and you feel your counselor isn't a good fit, you can change counselors at any time without penalty.
Are my sessions confidential?
Generally, what you tell your counselor is confidential, but there are limited exceptions. For example, if the counselor has reason to believe you pose serious harm to yourself or another, they are required to report this information to relevant authorities. Before starting therapy, please discuss with your counselor their legal obligations to confidentiality if you have any concerns or questions.
What should I expect during my first counseling session?
During your first session, you can expect to discuss your reasons for seeking help, including any specific issues or goals you have. The counselor will also gather background information to better understand your history and context, and together you will outline a plan for future sessions.
How should I prepare for my first counseling session?
You can best prepare by reflecting on your primary concerns and goals and sharing them openly and clearly during the session. Additionally, it can be helpful to gather any relevant personal or medical information that might assist the counselor in understanding your background and current situation.
What are your hours for therapy?
Therapy Hours for in-person and telehealth appointments are Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Telehealth appointments are only available in California.
Do you have any client testimonials?
See our Client Testimonials here.
