FAQ - PIL

Frequency Asked Questions

Find answers to your most pressing questions about therapy and mental health support.

Do you accept insurance?

We accept all major credit cards. No cash, checks, or money orders accepted.

Managed Care Organizations (MCO) Insurances we accept: Anthem, Aetna, Aetna Better Health, Sentara Health, Cigna/Evernorth, United Heathcare/OPTUM, Compsych, Tricare East, and Medicaid under all the mentioned MCOs

We do not accept insurance for SAP(DOT) services.

What if I don't have insurance?

We offer self-pay rates for clients without insurance.

How do I know if I should choose telehealth or in-person sessions?

Both options provide the same quality of care! Telehealth is perfect if you prefer the comfort of your own space, have transportation challenges, or live anywhere in Virginia outside the Virginia Beach area. In-person sessions at our Virginia Beach office work well if you prefer face-to-face interaction or find it easier to focus without home distractions. We can also switch between formats based on your changing needs – you’re not locked into one choice.

How do I get started, and how quickly can I be seen?

Getting started is simple! Call us at (757) 577-9434 or use our online contact form. We’ll schedule a brief phone consultation to understand your needs and match you with the right therapist. We typically can schedule new clients within 72 hours. Don’t worry about having all the answers – we’ll guide you through the process step by step.

What should I expect during my first therapy session?

Your first session is all about getting to know you and making you feel comfortable. We’ll ask about what brought you to therapy, your goals, and your background – but only what you’re ready to share. There’s no pressure to dive into difficult topics immediately. Most people leave feeling heard, understood, and hopeful about the journey ahead. Sessions are typically 50-60 minutes, and we’ll end by discussing next steps and scheduling future appointments.

Do you work with children, teens, and adults?

Yes! We provide services for children, adolescents, and adults. Our therapists are specially trained to work with different age groups and adjust their approaches accordingly. For children and teens, we often incorporate family members into treatment and can coordinate with schools when helpful. Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or a family member, we have the expertise to provide age-appropriate, effective care.

How long does therapy typically take to see results?

Everyone’s journey is different, but many clients start feeling some relief within the first few sessions just from having a safe space to talk. Noticeable changes often happen within 6-12 sessions, though this varies based on your goals and circumstances. We’ll check in regularly about your progress and adjust our approach as needed. Some people benefit from short-term focused work, while others find longer-term therapy helpful for deeper changes.

Is everything I share in therapy completely confidential?

Yes, confidentiality is fundamental to our work together. What you share stays between you and your therapist, with very limited exceptions required by law (such as risk of harm to yourself or others, or suspected child/elder abuse). We’ll explain these limitations clearly in our first session. For teens, we also discuss confidentiality boundaries with both the teen and parents to ensure everyone feels comfortable with the process.

What makes PIL Professional Counseling different from other therapy practices?

We combine warm, genuine care with extensive expertise across a wide range of conditions and life stages. Our therapists are specially trained in evidence-based treatments, and we take time to really understand you as a whole person. We offer unique services like SAP/DOT evaluations, comprehensive assessments, and specialized programs for conditions like ADHD and autism. Most importantly, we create a judgment-free environment where you can be yourself while working toward your goals.

I need a SAP evaluation for work – how does that process work?

As certified Substance Abuse Professionals, we handle the entire SAP process for DOT violations. First, we conduct a comprehensive evaluation to understand your situation and recommend appropriate education or treatment. After you complete those recommendations, we do a follow-up evaluation to determine if you’re ready for return-to-duty testing. We also provide ongoing monitoring as required. Throughout the process, we treat you with dignity and respect while ensuring full compliance with federal regulations.

What if I'm in crisis or having thoughts of suicide?

Your safety is our top priority. If you’re having thoughts of suicide or are in immediate danger, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room. You can also call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (just dial 988) for immediate support. For urgent but non-emergency situations, call our office and we’ll work to see you as soon as possible, often within 24-48 hours. We want you to know that suicidal thoughts are treatable, and reaching out for help shows incredible strength. You can also call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (just dial 988) for immediate support.

Have More Questions?

We’re here to help! Call us at (757) 577-9434 or send us a message through our contact form. No question is too small, and we’re happy to talk through any concerns before you schedule your first appointment. Taking the step to reach out is often the hardest part – we’re here to make everything else as easy as possible.