FAQ - Outpatient Counseling
What is outpatient counseling?
Counseling is an opportunity to talk with a trained professional to help solve problems.  For a child or teen, counseling can provide help in solving problems with behavior, feelings, school or family. Counselors use a variety of skills, such as listening, watching, playing and talking, to help clients understand and cope with feelings, as well as learn new skills for positive behavior.

Who can receive counseling at Applewood Centers?
Children up to age 21 can receive counseling at Applewood Centers. In most cases, especially when young children are involved, parents are also a part of the counseling process. Sometimes it is even appropriate for an entire family to participate.

How do I make an appointment for my child?
The first step is to contact Applewood Centers Intake Department at (216) 459-9827 or in Lorain County (440) 934-9930.  Trained professionals will talk with you confidentially about your concerns with your child or teen. If it’s determined that counseling may be beneficial, we will assist you in making an appointment. If you find that other resources may be more helpful to your family, we will help you make a connection to those services.

Who are the counselors?
Our counseling staff consists of licensed professionals in the fields of social work, counseling, psychology, psychiatry or nursing.  In addition, these counselors specialize in working with children and teens.

Where do we go for counseling?
While Applewood's counselors see clients in many environments, including schools, in the community and at home, it is most likely that appointments will be made at one of our neighborhood offices, most convenient for you.

What will take place during a counseling session?
At the first appointment, the counselor will spend time with you and your child or teen in order to understand your concerns. You will be asked some questions and you and the counselor will complete some paperwork. The counselor will explain the rights that you and your child or teen have as clients of Applewood Centers. You may be asked for permission to allow the counselor to speak with other professionals, such as your child's teacher or pediatrician. Together you will set goals so you can measure the progress made in treatment, and the counselor will work with you to schedule future appointments.

How long is a counseling session?
Each counseling session usually lasts about one hour. The number of sessions your child needs depends on many things, including: the extent of the problem; the length of time it takes to feel comfortable in counseling; and the amount of time and effort you and your child are able to commit to the counseling process. While they vary greatly, the average number of sessions at Applewood is anywhere from eight to 12.

How will I pay for counseling?
Applewood Centers accepts many traditional insurance, HMOs, PPOs, and Medicaid. As a contract agency of both the Cuyahoga County Community Mental Health Board and the Lorain County Board of Mental Health, Applewood is able to offer a sliding fee scale based on family income to assist with payment, when appropriate.
 

"Ninety-five percent of children served in our Residential Treatment Program are able to return home or transition into a foster home."