FAQs
Should I go to counseling?
This is a common question. In a lot of cases, a person is likely asking themselves, “what’s wrong with me?” Unfortunately, this negative self- perception can lead to feelings of fear, blame and embarrassment. Actually, the counseling experience can help a person reconnect with “what’s right with me.” Improvement can be a powerful motivator. My goal is to help you understand yourself, your situation, and ways best for you to experience purposeful living.
What can I expect?
My goal is to offer a supportive, comfortable environment that allows for trust and respect to be formed. People are unique, in that we have our thought processes, our feelings, our behaviors and our limitations. All of these influence our experiences and how we relate to them. Whatever issue brings you to counseling, I will join you in your journey to find understanding and a basis for decision making that works well for you.
Can my situation really change for the better?
I firmly believe the answer is yes. I like the analogy of “seasons”. We are used to seasons and the changes that come with them. Most changes are anticipated, some come as a surprise. It is a learning process. Here’s the good news. Your story is not over. We are a “storied” work in progress.
How do I contact Dr. Ward?
Click on the Contact Me page/tab. I will respond to you within 24 hours, excluding weekends and holidays.
May I call Dr. Ward?
If at this point you have more questions, you may call me at the office number, which is 682-232-4453. If I don’t answer, leave a message with your contact number. I will respond to you within 24 hours, excluding weekends and holidays.. Please do not text me by using standard SMS texting since it is not secure.
May I email Dr. Ward?
Yes, but as a brief way to ask for a call back. I am at drgaryward@gmail.com *Please do not share any confidential information through your personal email, as this not a secure format. I will make every effort to return your message within 24 hours, excluding weekends and holidays.
What are the fees for clinical counseling sessions?
45 minutes Individual/Couples $ 90
60 minutes Individual/Couples $ 100
60 minutes Family $120
60 minutes Group $150
Is insurance accepted? Yes. Participating provider with the following insurance plans.
I accept cash, check, all major credit cards and flex accounts as forms of payment. For convenience, you may keep your credit card on file in my HIPAA secure portal with Simple Practice.
Simple Practice--Click here to learn more
Is a sliding scale offered for therapy?
Yes. It is based on annual income and other factors. I will be happy to discuss the terms with you.
Do you partner with churches for therapy/counseling sessions?
Yes. Currently there are churches who partner with me to make counseling available for their members and community. If you feel your church might be interested, I would be glad to discuss it with them.
Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes. If you are unable to attend a therapy session, please make sure you cancel at least 24 hours beforehand. Otherwise, you will be charged $75 for the missed session.
What are the fees for non-clinical services, such as life coaching, educational classes, support groups and seminars/ retreats?
Normally offered to organizations, fees are usually based on number of sessions and attendees. *Expenses such as location amenities or their policies are extra. I will be happy to discuss packages, options or arrangements advantageous to everyone. *Note- Life Coaching though non-clinical, is most often offered to individuals, couples of families. If offered in those venues, the fee is synonymous with those of clinical counseling. Sliding scale can be offered. Cancellation policy applies.
Any other questions?
Please contact me for any additional questions you may have. I look forward to hearing from you!
If I feel I want to come to counseling, what is my next step?
Your next step is to schedule a counseling appointment. This can be done in one of two ways.
Should I go to counseling?
This is a common question. In a lot of cases, a person is likely asking themselves, “what’s wrong with me?” Unfortunately, this negative self- perception can lead to feelings of fear, blame and embarrassment. Actually, the counseling experience can help a person reconnect with “what’s right with me.” Improvement can be a powerful motivator. My goal is to help you understand yourself, your situation, and ways best for you to experience purposeful living.
What can I expect?
My goal is to offer a supportive, comfortable environment that allows for trust and respect to be formed. People are unique, in that we have our thought processes, our feelings, our behaviors and our limitations. All of these influence our experiences and how we relate to them. Whatever issue brings you to counseling, I will join you in your journey to find understanding and a basis for decision making that works well for you.
Can my situation really change for the better?
I firmly believe the answer is yes. I like the analogy of “seasons”. We are used to seasons and the changes that come with them. Most changes are anticipated, some come as a surprise. It is a learning process. Here’s the good news. Your story is not over. We are a “storied” work in progress.
How do I contact Dr. Ward?
Click on the Contact Me page/tab. I will respond to you within 24 hours, excluding weekends and holidays.
May I call Dr. Ward?
If at this point you have more questions, you may call me at the office number, which is 682-232-4453. If I don’t answer, leave a message with your contact number. I will respond to you within 24 hours, excluding weekends and holidays.. Please do not text me by using standard SMS texting since it is not secure.
May I email Dr. Ward?
Yes, but as a brief way to ask for a call back. I am at drgaryward@gmail.com *Please do not share any confidential information through your personal email, as this not a secure format. I will make every effort to return your message within 24 hours, excluding weekends and holidays.
What are the fees for clinical counseling sessions?
45 minutes Individual/Couples $ 90
60 minutes Individual/Couples $ 100
60 minutes Family $120
60 minutes Group $150
Is insurance accepted? Yes. Participating provider with the following insurance plans.
- Ambetter
- Anthem
- BlueCross and BlueShield
- Cigna
- Optum
- Superior HealthPlan
- UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
I accept cash, check, all major credit cards and flex accounts as forms of payment. For convenience, you may keep your credit card on file in my HIPAA secure portal with Simple Practice.
Simple Practice--Click here to learn more
Is a sliding scale offered for therapy?
Yes. It is based on annual income and other factors. I will be happy to discuss the terms with you.
Do you partner with churches for therapy/counseling sessions?
Yes. Currently there are churches who partner with me to make counseling available for their members and community. If you feel your church might be interested, I would be glad to discuss it with them.
Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes. If you are unable to attend a therapy session, please make sure you cancel at least 24 hours beforehand. Otherwise, you will be charged $75 for the missed session.
What are the fees for non-clinical services, such as life coaching, educational classes, support groups and seminars/ retreats?
Normally offered to organizations, fees are usually based on number of sessions and attendees. *Expenses such as location amenities or their policies are extra. I will be happy to discuss packages, options or arrangements advantageous to everyone. *Note- Life Coaching though non-clinical, is most often offered to individuals, couples of families. If offered in those venues, the fee is synonymous with those of clinical counseling. Sliding scale can be offered. Cancellation policy applies.
Any other questions?
Please contact me for any additional questions you may have. I look forward to hearing from you!
If I feel I want to come to counseling, what is my next step?
Your next step is to schedule a counseling appointment. This can be done in one of two ways.
- Call the office and schedule the appointment, or
- Sign up as a new client under Simple Practice. Click here.