Frequently Asked Questions
How long will I have to wait for an appointment?
We can typically schedule you an individual, couple, or family therapy appointment within 48 to 72 hours of your request for an appointment. We strive to meet every appointment request we receive quickly. In rare situations, where your schedule demands atypical appointment times, it may require additional time to accommodate your request. However, we have many clinicians with varied schedules that can accommodate your needs.
I'VE NEVER BEEN TO therapy. WHAT'S IT LIKE? HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE?
Counseling does not typically require a pre-determined number of appointments. Your goal for what you want to accomplish and how you want to accomplish that goes is discussed with your therapist and the two of you work together to reach those goals. Counseling is a collaborative conversation between you and your therapist. What you want to talk about is up to you, and the more you have an idea of what you want to get from this process, the easier it will be to reach your goals.
How much does therapy cost?
Our directors and faculty operate at a fixed fee. All associate therapists operate on a sliding scale. To determine the sliding scale cost for associate therapists, we consider your income and number of dependents.
Do I have to come every week?
How often you come is a decision you and your therapist make together in order to accommodate what is in your best interest, what you can afford, and what works with your schedule. One session at AFI is 50 minutes.
How many locations do you have?
We have two publicly accessible locations. Our main office is located on Bee Cave Road in West Austin. Our south location is located on FM 1626 and Manchaca Road.
What do I do in the case of an emergency and your office is closed?
In the event that you would need immediate medical or mental health care, we encourage you to either call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room. If you need to talk with your AFI therapist, you can leave a confidential message on the AFI voicemail. Messages are picked up every evening and several times each weekend day.
Should my spouse or partner come to therapy with me?
Attending together will be the most productive for resolving relationship issues, but we know this is not always possible. Working with one person is also helpful. If you are ready to get help and your partner is not, do not wait to get help for yourself. Getting help for yourself when you identify relationship problems can be a great way to make a change.
How does therapy work?
Therapy works well when you believe that you can change, when you develop a strong alliance with a therapist, and when you are willing to be open to change. Change can be hard, but with the help of a competent and compassionate therapist, you may find the change you are looking for.
Do you take insurance?
AFI associate therapists do not accept insurance at this time. However, we are committed to providing affordable, low cost services. Your therapist will provide you with a receipt after each session, which you can submit to your insurance. If your insurance company accepts out of network services, we can provide you with a billable summary of our sessions for you to submit.
Who will know that I have come to therapy?
Therapists are bound by law to maintain confidentiality unless a person is at an immediate risk of harm either to himself or herself or to another person, in cases of child abuse, or if compelled by a court. At AFI we respect you and your right to complete confidentiality within the law.
