The Department of Social Work has licensed clinical social workers who work directly with patients and caregivers as part of the multidisciplinary team. They are available to help patients and caregivers cope with the impact and changes that result from a diagnosis of cancer.
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Services Offered
Counseling services include:
* Adjustment to diagnosis and treatment * Coping with life changes * Relaxation and mindfulness * Advance care planning * Crisis intervention * Grief and loss * Sexuality and intimacy * Relationship safety * Talking to children/teens whose parents have cancer * CLIMB: Children's Lives Include Moments of Bravery * KIWI: Kids Inquire, We Inform * Couples/family
Fees and Payment
Services are free, can be provided in person or over the phone, and do not require a referral from a physician or medical team.
Services Offered To: Adults Couples Teens Children
Payment: Sliding Scale Pro-bono
Online Counseling: Yes
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Qualifying for assistance from Texas' program usually depends on the severity of your condition and financial circumstance. Read our full guide to Texas' program.
A community counseling agency is a group therapy practice that offers affordable mental health services. Most are independent non-profit agencies, state agencies, or publicly-funded agencies. A few may restrict who is eligible for services, so it is a good idea to check when you call.
Community counseling agencies are generally more affordable than other therapy providers, but how much more affordable they are will depend on whether you qualify for a discount or sliding scale fee (or if they accept your insurance). Many, but not all, have a policy that they won't turn away anyone due to inability to pay. You should ask about their fees when you first call.
Expect to talk to kind people who want to help you find the care you need. Most community agencies strive to connect you with a live person within 24 hours, if not immediately. If you're asked to hold or leave a message, don't give up; just leave a message and wait. You should hear back pretty quickly.
Most agencies try to set up an initial assessment appointment within a week (some do within 24 hours), though the waitlist to start therapy is usually longer—about a few weeks on average. If you're not eligible or if the agency is not right for you, it's usually still worth it to call or drop in, because staff are knowledgeable about local options and can often refer you to one.