FAQs
How much does counseling cost?
Shelly Kessinger, LPC: $200/session, except for the first session which is $300
First session is 75 minutes, all follow up sessions are 60 minutes.
*Accepting new clients with immediate availability
Kacey Petrash, LPC Associate: $125/session, except for the first session which is $140
*Accepting new clients with immediate availability
Do you take insurance?
No, we are considered an out-of-network provider. We can give you a receipt, and you can submit that receipt to your insurance company for a possible reimbursement.
The amount that is reimbursed depends on your insurance plan. You can call your insurance company and ask what out-of-network benefits that you have.
We do accept FSA and HSA cards for payment.
How do I get started?
To schedule with Kacey: Call or text our mainline at 281-317-7057
To schedule with Shelly: Call or text our mainline or you can go to her online calendar at: www.calendly.com/friendswoodmarriagecounseling and schedule directly from there.
How often are the counseling sessions?
You can choose how often you would like to come in, depending on your budget, schedule, and progress in counseling. Some couples choose weekly, some couples choose monthly, and some couples check in as needed throughout the year. We are open to whatever works best for you.
Does couples counseling work?
Many couples that we have worked with have said that counseling was helpful. However, the outcome depends on the couple themselves.
Couples counseling works best when both partners are motivated to change. In session, we will give you strategies and communication techniques to try. However, it is up to the couple to implement those strategies at home.
Is the fee the same if only one person comes to counseling?
Yes, the fee is the same regardless of how many people are in session.
Can I speak with the counselor alone before a session?
Generally, we prefer to speak with the couple as a group first. However, we can accommodate a phone call or an email with extra information if you would like. Please let your counselor know if you would like to talk individually. During the first session, we can also discuss having an individual session with each person if necessary and appropriate.
What if my partner refuses to come into counseling?
Many people decline counseling for different reasons. There are a few options that you can still consider though. You can choose to come in individually, and we can work on your individual communication.
You can also ask if your partner is open to other forms of help. For example, is your partner open to reading a relationship book with you or maybe going on a marriage retreat? Is your partner open to watching an online class on communication?
Friendswood Marriage Counseling offers a self-paced virtual class about healthy communication skills, taught by Shelly Kessinger, LPC.
Click on "Virtual Class" from the menu bar on our homepage for more information or click here.