COOKEVILLE MEDICAL CENTER

Counseling Services

Answers to Your Questions

Healthcare Providers

Our counselors have been trained in a number of techniques that research has shown to be effective for most problems that are presented in counseling. The main theoretical approach is Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT).  Extensive studies by the National Institute of Mental Health and others have shown this to be a very effective short-term approach that typically lasts from 8-15 sessions, depending on the nature of the problem.  CBT helps patients relieve their distress by teaching them to identify and change patterns of thinking that cause them to misperceive events or situations.  Specific methods and treatment plans are individually tailored for each client.

Counseling cannot be effective if you concentrate on issues of concern only once a week.  Much improvement is possible between sessions.  In order to have the greatest effect in the shortest period of time you will be asked to do specific activities and/or read specific books and articles between sessions.  These activities will help to speed up the time it takes for you to work out your concerns or problems.  

The practitioners in this group adhere to the ethical standards of their representative professional associations:  
The American Psychological Association
The American Counseling Association

Law requires that all client records and knowledge be kept confidential.  This includes the conversations of minors and their therapist.  Parents are assured that therapists are trained to assist in matters where there is a need to know on the part of the parents.  Records are turned over only under the express permission of clients or their legal guardians.  In rare events, a court may demand records.  However, skilled attorneys are frequently able to avoid misuse of the records by the court  system.  In the event that you are applying for insurance coverage, certain information is released to the insurance company.  Managed-care companies frequently require extensive information.

Exceptions to Confidentiality by Law are as follows:
1.  Probability of physical or sexual abuse
2.  Threats a client makes on his/her life or the life of another

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• Adolescent through Adult

• Cognitive-Behavioral Brief Therapy

• Mood Disorders

• Behavior Management Training

• Personal Growth and Development

• Marriage and Family 

• Career/Educational Planning

• Psychological Evaluations & Assessments Available

• Medical Consultations Available

The Counseling fee is $65.00, payable at each visit.  You will receive help in filling out the necessary insurance forms, but you will need to contact our billing office to determine if we are certified by your insurance company and at what level.  

Helpful Hints for Your First Session. 

• Fill out the questionnaire.

• Make a list of ideas you want to talk about.

• Don't be afraid to ask any question that you might have.

• If problem feelings or thoughts come up, write them down.

• Make sure your questions are answered by the end of the session.

Broken Appointments.  Due to the time commitment our office makes to you, if you fail to show without having given at least 24 hours notice, you will still be charged the full $65.00 appointment fee.  You may reach our receptionist or leave a message 24 hours a day at 931-528-8899.

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