Why choose Central Counseling Services? 

At CCS, we pride ourselves on being different—and for good reason. Our approach is centered around creating a safe, confidential, and comfortable space where you feel genuinely cared for, listened to, and encouraged.

We believe you don't have to endure excessive worry or doubt any longer. By utilizing outcome scales, we effectively evaluate your therapeutic progress, ensuring that you achieve tangible results. Our goal is not to keep you in therapy indefinitely but to help you address and resolve issues in the moment.

Anxiety should never stand in the way of pursuing your goals. We are here to help you overcome it and reclaim your life. Contact us today and take the first step toward a happier, healthier you.

What should I expect when I arrive? 

After your appointment is scheduled, you will receive an invitation to the Client Portal where you can fill out your intake documents. Please complete these documents at least 24 hours before your appointment. These documents include legal consents and symptom assessments, which are essential for your therapist to understand and address your needs.

We offer both in-person and telehealth appointments to accommodate your preferences. If you choose a telehealth appointment, a link will be sent to you prior to your session.

Once the paperwork is completed, you will have your intake appointment with your individual counselor. During this session, your therapist will conduct a clinical interview and work with you to define your personal treatment goals.

If you encounter any issues with the digital paperwork, we can provide physical copies. Please call our office to notify us and arrive early for your first appointment to complete the intake paperwork.

How long will treatment last?

The duration of treatment typically ranges from three to six months, depending on your goals, frequency of sessions, effort in therapy, and the type of treatment pursued. Many people start to feel improvements after just a few sessions.

Are my records confidential?

All information disclosed during a session and the written records from those sessions are strictly confidential and will not be shared without your written consent, except where disclosure is legally required. Legal exceptions include situations such as suspected child abuse, threats of harm to oneself or others, or court orders.

For more information on these exceptions, please refer to the California Department of Social Services on Mandated Reporting.

Disclosure may be necessary in legal proceedings involving you. If your mental status is at issue in litigation, the defendant may obtain your psychotherapy records or testimony from Central Counseling Services (CCS). In couple and family therapy, confidentiality does not apply between family members. CCS will use clinical judgment when disclosing such information and will not release records to outside parties without consent from all involved adults. For details, refer to the California Psychotherapist-Patient Privilege Exceptions (Cal. Evid. Code § 1014)

How often do I come to therapy?

Therapy is often weekly. Speak to your therapist for their recommendation for you.

What Types of Licensed Professionals Provide Therapy and Who Should I See?

In California, various licensed professionals provide psychotherapy services to individuals, couples, and families. Here's an overview of their qualifications:

  1. Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW):

    • Education: Master's degree in Social Work

    • Experience: 3,000 hours of supervised clinical work

    • Licensing: Passed a state-certified exam

    • Focus: Individual, family, and couple's therapy using community resources and strength-based assessments

    • Continuing Education: 36 hours every two years (California Board of Behavioral Sciences)

  2. Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT):

    • Education: Master's degree in Psychology

    • Experience: 3,000 hours of supervised clinical work, including a year-long practicum and internship

    • Licensing: Passed state-certified exams

    • Focus: Clinical training in individual, child, and family therapy

    • Continuing Education: 36 hours every two years (California Board of Behavioral Sciences)

  3. Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC):

    • Education: Master's or doctoral degree in counseling or psychotherapy

    • Experience: 3,000 hours of supervised clinical work

    • Licensing: Passed the National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Exam

    • Focus: Empowering clients to handle life situations, reduce stress, experience personal growth, and make rational decisions

    • Continuing Education: 36 hours every two years (California Board of Behavioral Sciences)

Choosing the Right Professional: All LCSWs, LMFTs, LPCCs, and Psychologists in California are qualified to provide psychotherapy services. The key factor in choosing the right professional is your personal connection to the therapist and their experience in treating your specific concerns.