Frequently Asked Questions
What is a typical treatment time frame? What kind of time commitment will be required from me?
Everyone’s counseling journey is unique, and we want to design the best experience for you. While it’s impossible to provide a one-size-fits-all timeline, as a point of reference, we typically provide short-term therapy (10-12 sessions), medium-term therapy (3-6 months), and long-term therapy pathways (over 6 months). Most sessions last about an hour and take place during a weekly visit, although this schedule may be adjusted as time goes on. Rest assured that we’ll craft a therapy plan that is personalized to your needs and in alignment with your goals.
Do I choose my own therapist or will I be paired with someone? What if I don’t connect with my therapist?
You most certainly can choose your therapist, as long as schedules align. A great place to start is by browsing our therapist profiles online to find someone whose expertise, approach, and experience resonate with your needs. If you’re unsure who to select, our Client Relations Coordinator will help guide you toward the right fit during your initial intake call.
Remember, therapy isn’t about feeling a “spark” or becoming best friends, and it’s completely normal not to feel an immediate connection with your therapist. With that said, you should always feel comfortable and understood. If you're not connecting right away, we encourage an open conversation with your therapist—it may simply be a matter of adjusting the approach. If after a few sessions things still don't feel right, we fully support your decision to switch therapists. Your well-being is our top priority.
Remember, therapy isn’t about feeling a “spark” or becoming best friends, and it’s completely normal not to feel an immediate connection with your therapist. With that said, you should always feel comfortable and understood. If you're not connecting right away, we encourage an open conversation with your therapist—it may simply be a matter of adjusting the approach. If after a few sessions things still don't feel right, we fully support your decision to switch therapists. Your well-being is our top priority.
I’m ready to begin therapy but unsure where to start. How do I book my first session, and what happens from there?
We're excited that you're taking the first step on this journey, and our support is yours every step of the way. Here’s a quick look at what to expect:
We look forward to walking alongside you on this journey!
- Get in Touch: Reach out by phone, email, or through our online booking system to check our availability and schedule your first appointment. Our intention is to honor your time and connect you with the care and support you need as quickly as possible—so please expect to receive a personal call from our Client Care Coordinator within 24 hours (48 if your inquiry was received over the weekend).
- Initial Consultation: Your initial consultation with our Client Care Coordinator will be focused on discussing your needs and objectives. We’ll use the details gathered during this call to match you with the therapist who best aligns with your personal goals.
- Complete Paperwork: Prior to your initial appointment, we will ask you to complete our simple, straightforward intake forms. Thoughtful responses that speak to both your background and present needs will pave the way for a productive first session.
- Attend Your First Session: Your initial appointment is all about throwing spaghetti on the wall and establishing rapport with your therapist. During subsequent sessions, we’ll work together to unravel each strand of your story. It’s completely normal to feel a bit vulnerable following our initial meeting—but you should also experience a sense of relief, connection, and confidence in our ability to guide you toward an improved state of being.
- A Clear Path Forward: We will conclude our first session by outlining a customized treatment plan that gives you an understanding of the road ahead. Although individual needs vary, timelines typically span a minimum of 10-12 weeks. Much like physical training, the gains you make during therapy will continue to multiply over time as we enter the heavy-lifting phase of treatment: building emotional strength and resilience.
What should I expect to feel during the first few weeks of therapy?
It’s very common to feel a mix of emotions as you begin therapy — relief, curiosity, vulnerability, or even discomfort. You’re sharing parts of your story that may have been held in for a long time. Many clients describe the first few sessions as a chance to “exhale” and start making sense of things out loud.
Is it normal to feel worse before I feel better?
Yes. Therapy often stirs up emotions that you may not have had space to fully face before. This doesn’t mean something is wrong — it means the work is starting. Like exercise, there can be some soreness before strength builds. With time and support, most clients find those early waves of discomfort give way to deeper clarity and relief.
What are some common challenges clients face in the beginning?
Many people feel uncertain about what to say, worried about “doing therapy right,” or frustrated that change doesn’t happen instantly. These feelings are normal. Your therapist is there to guide you, set a steady pace, and remind you that the process unfolds over time — not in one perfect session.
How can I get the most out of my first few sessions?
Come as you are. You don’t need to have everything figured out or a perfect story to tell. Bring your questions, your worries, and even your silence. Therapy is most effective when you allow yourself to be open and honest, and when you trust that the process itself — even the messy beginnings — is moving you forward.
What kinds of topics will be covered during my first session?
Your first therapy session is a great chance to get to know your therapist, see how she works, open the door to your personal history, and receive insight about the path forward. Be open about what you're hoping to achieve, and let your therapist know how you're feeling about the process. This is your journey, and your input is important!
What steps does the Montfort Group take to ensure my personal details remain confidential? Why should I trust the Montfort Group?
Your peace of mind is our top priority, and we're here to make sure you feel safe and supported throughout your therapy journey. Our therapists strictly adhere to the ethical guidelines established by professional bodies such as the American Counseling Association (ACA) and the Texas Board of Professional Counselors. At the beginning of your treatment course, your therapist will present an informed consent form that details our confidentiality policy. This document explains how your information is safeguarded, the rare exceptions to confidentiality (such as concerns for your safety or the safety of others), and your rights regarding your personal data.
Will all of my sessions take place in person?
Whether your therapy sessions are held in person or not depends on several factors, including your preferences and your therapist’s approach. In-person sessions often provide a more immersive and direct sense of connection. However, for flexibility and accessibility, we also offer virtual counseling through a secure video platform. Hybrid options are also available that blend in-person and virtual sessions. You and your therapist will work together to determine the option that best supports your journey.
What if I cannot make my scheduled appointment? What is your cancellation policy?
We understand that “life happens.” If you need to reschedule an appointment, simply reach out as soon as possible—whether by phone, email, or through our online booking system. We kindly request a 48-hour notice for cancellations. If you cancel within this window, there is no penalty. However, cancellations made with less than 48-hour notice will incur the full session fee. These policies not only respect our therapists' time, but also promote consistency and commitment to your process, as regular attendance is key to making meaningful progress.
Please click here for more information about our cancellation policy.
Please click here for more information about our cancellation policy.
What kind of support does the Montfort Group provide after my treatment concludes?
Our goal is for you to leave therapy feeling supported, empowered, and confident in managing your mental health and well-being. As your therapy journey concludes, your therapist will collaborate with you to create a personalized aftercare plan. The valuable resources and strategies she imparts might include techniques for sustaining your mental health, recognizing early signs of potential setbacks, and identifying coping mechanisms or resources to turn to during challenging moments.
After your regular sessions end, you may also have the option to schedule occasional “booster” appointments. These check-ins are designed to reinforce the skills and strategies you've developed, address any emerging challenges, and maintain your connection with your therapist.
After your regular sessions end, you may also have the option to schedule occasional “booster” appointments. These check-ins are designed to reinforce the skills and strategies you've developed, address any emerging challenges, and maintain your connection with your therapist.
How does your approach differ from others?
Therapy at The Montfort Group is a collaborative journey, where you and your therapist work together to set goals, select therapeutic approaches, and adjust your treatment plan as needed. This ensures that you remain an active participant in your healing process. Our highly diverse and experienced team brings a range of specialties and backgrounds to the table, allowing us to match you with the therapist best suited to your unique needs. Our holistic approach covers both mental and physical health, giving you well-rounded support to feel your best both inside and out!
What will my financial investment into therapy look like?
Initial Visit: For your first visit, you can choose either a 50-minute or 80-minute session. There is a one-time additional fee of $50 for your initial intake assessment, which covers the extra time required to develop your custom treatment plan.
Please click here to review our current rates.
Insurance: Counseling sessions at The Montfort Group are considered out-of-network, which means we do not bill insurance directly. However, many insurance plans offer out-of-network benefits that will reimburse you for a portion of the session cost. We’re happy to provide monthly superbills and guide you through the process.
To make reimbursement easier, we recommend Thrizer—a secure platform that verifies your benefits, submits your superbills, and manages communication with your insurance provider. Once your deductible is met, many clients receive direct deposit reimbursements within a few weeks. You can also use HSA or FSA cards to pay for sessions.
To find out what your insurance will cover, contact your provider or create a free account at www.thrizer.com to get started.
Payment: Cash, check, all major credit cards, HSA, and Flex cards are accepted for payment.
Please click here to review our current rates.
Insurance: Counseling sessions at The Montfort Group are considered out-of-network, which means we do not bill insurance directly. However, many insurance plans offer out-of-network benefits that will reimburse you for a portion of the session cost. We’re happy to provide monthly superbills and guide you through the process.
To make reimbursement easier, we recommend Thrizer—a secure platform that verifies your benefits, submits your superbills, and manages communication with your insurance provider. Once your deductible is met, many clients receive direct deposit reimbursements within a few weeks. You can also use HSA or FSA cards to pay for sessions.
To find out what your insurance will cover, contact your provider or create a free account at www.thrizer.com to get started.
Payment: Cash, check, all major credit cards, HSA, and Flex cards are accepted for payment.
How will I know if therapy is starting to work for me?
Progress in therapy doesn’t always look like big breakthroughs right away. It often begins with small shifts — noticing your patterns, feeling more self-aware, or having language for emotions you couldn’t name before. Over time, these shifts become stepping stones toward lasting change and greater ease in your day-to-day life.
Is couples counseling really worth the cost??
When you consider what’s at stake, it often is. In Collin County, a contested divorce involving children can cost anywhere from $25,000 to over $100,000. That doesn't include the emotional stress, the impact on your kids, or the time it takes to recover.
By comparison, three months of focused couples counseling typically costs between $3,000 and $5,000 depending on your therapist and session length. For many couples, that investment creates the space to reset communication, work through gridlocked issues, and make thoughtful decisions—whether you're trying to reconnect or considering next steps.
Even if the relationship doesn’t continue, counseling often leads to a healthier separation and better long-term outcomes for everyone involved.
By comparison, three months of focused couples counseling typically costs between $3,000 and $5,000 depending on your therapist and session length. For many couples, that investment creates the space to reset communication, work through gridlocked issues, and make thoughtful decisions—whether you're trying to reconnect or considering next steps.
Even if the relationship doesn’t continue, counseling often leads to a healthier separation and better long-term outcomes for everyone involved.
Mark
Client
“We figured it couldn't hurt, and honestly, we were shocked by how much changed in just a few sessions. Counseling cost us less than what we would have paid in a single month of legal fees, and it gave us something we hadn’t had in years: real clarity. Whether we stayed together or not, we both agreed this was the smartest decision we could have made before blowing up our family and finances. It wasn’t magic. It was work. And it was worth every penny.”
“We were one signature away from calling a lawyer when a friend told us to try The Montfort Group first.”