Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, we accept several major insurance plans. Coverage can vary, so we recommend checking with your provider to confirm if your plan includes our services. We are currently in network with

• Highmark BCBS

• Aetna

• Independence Blue Cross

• Quest Behavioral Health.

We also take Health Advocates EAP and Carebridge EAP.

We also accept Victim’s Compensation for victims of sexual assault. If you or your child experienced sexual assault, you may be eligible for therapy at no cost through victims compensation. You do NOT have to have reported the crime to police to qualify. Reach out with questions about victims compensation: hello@nest-counseling.com

The initial session is designed to build a foundation for therapy by getting to know you and your unique story. For adults, this means exploring your background, values, and what you hope to achieve through therapy. The therapist will discuss your expectations, ask about your life experiences, current challenges, and goals, creating a comfortable space to begin.

For children, the first session typically involves both the child and their parent(s) to help everyone feel at ease and establish trust. After this, subsequent sessions usually involve the child alone, allowing them to engage freely in the therapeutic process. Throughout, parents are actively included, with regular parent sessions scheduled to provide updates, discuss progress, and offer guidance to support the family as a whole.

There’s no pressure to continue therapy after the first session, and you’re free to decide what feels right moving forward.

Yes! While we specialize in supporting children & parents, our therapists are trained in a variety of specializations such as anxiety, trauma, mood disorders and grief. We love working with folks of all ages.

Absolutely, parents are a vital part of the therapeutic journey. We don’t offer a “drop-off and fix” approach; instead, we focus on empowering the entire family.

Parents are actively engaged through regular check-ins, dedicated parent sessions, and ongoing collaboration with the therapist. This ensures you’re equipped to support your child’s emotional growth, fostering a stronger family connection and lasting positive change.

Not exactly. While it might look like just play, it's actually how children naturally communicate, and the toys serve as their way of expressing thoughts and feelings. A trained therapist uses Play Therapy techniques to interpret this "language," helping children feel understood and supported. This process reduces unhelpful behaviors by addressing their underlying causes, not just the surface symptoms. The therapist also collaborates with parents to improve their ability to connect with their child through play and communication.

Unlike regular play, which is spontaneous and focused on fun, Play Therapy is a structured process led by a professional to help children work through emotional or behavioral challenges. It uses toys, art, or stories as tools for children to express feelings they might not be able to verbalize. The therapist creates a safe environment, observes patterns in the child’s play, and guides them toward emotional growth and problem-solving. While regular play is carefree, Play Therapy is purposeful, aiming to foster self-awareness and coping skills in a supportive, child-focused way.

Sometimes, taking a child out of school for therapy is necessary, as mental health is critical for their overall well-being and academic success. Therapy can equip children with tools to manage anxiety, trauma, or behavioral issues, which can ultimately improve their focus and engagement in school. Since after-school or weekend therapy slots are often limited, a daytime appointment may be the only option.

Early intervention can prevent emotional struggles from worsening, supporting better learning and social outcomes. Most schools allow excused absences for therapy, recognizing its importance to a child’s health. We can give parents an excuse letter to give to the school if needed.