Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to what people ask before their first appointment.
Most asked
How do I schedule an appointment?
Call or text us at 801-875-2892, or fill out our contact form. We’ll reach out quickly to get you started.
Do I need a referral to start therapy?
No referral is needed! You can reach out directly and we’ll help you get started — no doctor’s note required.
What should I expect during the first session?
You’ll share your goals, challenges, and history. Your therapist will help create a plan tailored to your needs.
Do you accept insurance?
Yes! We accept most major plans including Select Health, United Behavioral Health, Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, EMI, Cigna, University of Utah, PEHP, and more.
What if I don’t have insurance?
No problem. We strive to keep our private pay rates affordable and offer flexible payment plans. Feel free to call our office to discuss what options may work best for your situation.
Do you offer telehealth or in-person sessions?
Yes! We offer both secure video and in-person therapy. You can choose or switch depending on your needs.
All questions, by topic
Getting Started & Appointments
7 questions
How do I schedule an appointment?
Call or text us at 801-875-2892, or fill out our contact form. We’ll reach out quickly to get you started.
Can I book online?
We currently schedule appointments via phone, text, or form. If you leave your name and number, our team will contact you directly to help.
Do I need a referral to start therapy?
No referral is needed! You can reach out directly and we’ll help you get started — no doctor’s note required.
How quickly do you respond to texts or calls?
We try to respond as soon as possible — usually within a few hours during business hours, and by the next day if it’s after hours.
Can I schedule a consultation first before committing to sessions?
Yes! Many of our therapists offer a free 10–15 minute phone consultation to help you decide if it’s a good fit.
Do you have a cancellation waitlist?
Yes! If your preferred time isn’t available, we can add you to a waitlist and notify you if something opens up.
Are you open on weekends?
Our offices are closed on Saturdays and Sundays, but occasionally a therapist can make an exception. Let us know your availability and we’ll do our best to match you with someone who can accommodate you.
Therapists & Fit
4 questions
Can I choose my therapist?
Yes! You can browse our therapist bios or let us know your needs — we’ll help match you with someone who fits.
Can I switch therapists if it’s not a good fit?
Absolutely. If something isn’t clicking, we’ll help you find a better fit within our team.
What qualifications and experience do your therapists have?
Our therapists are licensed professionals with advanced training and experience in trauma, anxiety, relationships, and more.
What if I don’t feel like therapy is working?
That’s okay — it’s important to talk about it. We’ll adjust the approach or help you find a therapist who’s a better match.
Sessions & Structure
9 questions
What should I expect during the first session?
You’ll share your goals, challenges, and history. Your therapist will help create a plan tailored to your needs.
How do I prepare for my first session?
You don’t need to bring anything. Some clients like to write down a few goals or concerns beforehand.
How long is each session?
Most sessions last around 50 minutes and are held weekly.
Will my therapist give me advice?
Therapists guide rather than advise — they help you explore and clarify your own path forward.
Will I get homework or exercises between sessions?
Sometimes. Many therapists offer optional tools or activities to support your progress.
How will we measure my progress?
We’ll check in regularly and review your goals together to track your growth.
How long will I need therapy?
It depends on your goals. Some people come for a few sessions; others stay longer for deeper work.
What if I get stuck or run out of things to say?
That’s common. Your therapist can help guide the conversation and explore what’s beneath the silence.
Can therapy help even if I’m not in a crisis?
Absolutely. Therapy supports personal growth, insight, and resilience even when things are generally okay.
Insurance, Payment & Policies
7 questions
Do you accept insurance?
Yes! We accept most major plans including Select Health, United Behavioral Health, Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, EMI, Cigna, University of Utah, PEHP, and more.
Will you bill my insurance for me?
Yes — we handle insurance billing for you.
What if I don’t have insurance?
No problem. We strive to keep our private pay rates affordable and offer flexible payment plans. Feel free to call our office to discuss what options may work best for your situation.
Do you accept EAPs (Employee Assistance Programs)?
No, we do not accept EAPs at this time.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes — we’ll work with you to make therapy affordable.
What is your cancellation policy?
We ask for at least 24 hours’ notice to cancel or reschedule. Late cancellations or no- shows may result in a fee.
Do you provide letters for work, school, or disability accommodations?
Possibly. This is determined by your therapist based on clinical appropriateness and an ongoing treatment relationship.
Telehealth & Locations
3 questions
Do you offer telehealth or in-person sessions?
Yes! We offer both secure video and in-person therapy. You can choose or switch depending on your needs.
Where are you located?
We have offices in Orem, Sandy, Riverdale, St. George and Pleasant View, Utah. Each office's address, map and hours are on our Locations page.
Is parking available?
Yes — all our locations offer free and convenient parking.
Specialties & Modalities
10 questions
What types of therapy do you offer?
We offer EMDR, CBT, DBT, ART, trauma therapy, anxiety and depression support, and more.
Do you help with anxiety, depression, or PTSD?
Yes — these are some of the most common concerns we help with.
Do you offer EMDR therapy?
Yes — several of our therapists are certified in EMDR for trauma and emotional healing.
Do you offer grief support?
Yes. We help clients navigate grief and loss in all its forms.
Do you offer marriage or couples counseling?
Yes — we work with couples to improve communication, rebuild trust, and reconnect.
Do you work with children or teens?
Yes — we have therapists who specialize in children, adolescents, and parenting support.
Can you help with addiction or pornography struggles?
Yes — we help individuals and couples recover from pornography and substance use issues.
Do you offer group therapy?
We do offer group therapy, but currently do not have any open groups. Let us know if you'd like to join our waitlist.
Do you offer support for major life transitions?
Yes — we help with divorce, career changes, new parenthood, and other major changes.
Languages & Access
3 questions
Do you offer therapy in Spanish or other languages?
Yes! We have therapists who speak Spanish, Portuguese, Swedish, and Romanian.
Can I request a male or female therapist?
Yes — just let us know your preference.
Is therapy confidential for teens?
Yes, within legal and ethical limits. We balance teen privacy with parent involvement where appropriate.
Medical & Emergency Support
3 questions
Do you prescribe medication?
No, but we can refer you to trusted providers if medication becomes part of your care plan.
What if I need help right now?
If you are in crisis, call 911, or call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. We do not provide 24/7 services.
Can I talk to someone today?
Possibly — text or call us at 801-875-2892 and let us know it’s urgent.
Other Client Concerns
8 questions
What makes Deseret Counseling different from other therapy clinics?
We’ve been named Best of Utah County for 14 years and have hundreds of 5-star reviews. Clients trust us to be caring, experienced, and results-focused.
Do you work with LGBTQ+ clients and diverse backgrounds?
Yes! We provide inclusive, culturally responsive care for all backgrounds and identities.
What’s your treatment philosophy?
We’re client-centered, trauma-informed, and use evidence-based approaches that work.
How do you maintain client confidentiality?
We follow HIPAA and state laws strictly — everything you share stays confidential with rare exceptions involving safety.
Can I bring someone with me to my session?
Usually therapy is one-on-one, but you can discuss this with your therapist.
Can I bring my child to therapy with me?
If the child is the client, yes. Otherwise, we suggest arranging childcare for your own session.
What if I have a hard time opening up?
That’s completely normal. We’ll move at your pace and create a safe space for you.
Do you offer court-ordered therapy?
No — we do not provide court-mandated services.
Still have a question?
Our office is glad to help. If you need help right now, see our list of outside resources.
