Affordable Counseling Program

We understand that not everyone can afford private psychotherapy, but we believe ALL individuals should have access to quality support and mental health services regardless of financial variables. While publicly funded mental health services are always a viable option*, at Bridges Counseling, we are committed to providing a lower cost option for our community within the private practice setting through our Clinical Internship Program.

Clinical Interns are aspiring therapists in training. They are Master's Level Students working toward licensing and are closely supervised by Bridges Counseling Owner & Director, Heather DiDomenico. Clinical supervisors are licensed therapists who help trainee therapists gain the skills they need to be effective therapists by meeting weekly to discuss the work they’re doing with their clients and give them feedback and guidance. The best part about our Affordable Counseling Option is that, in essence, you get two therapists invested in your well being!

If you don’t have insurance, or you find that your insurance doesn’t cover therapy, our Affordable Counseling option may be the right fit for you.

*You can find free or low cost therapy through social services, nonprofits, universities, financial assistance programs, and employee assistance programs. The National Alliance on Mental Illness has a telephone line that offers free assistance and advice 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can reach the helpline at 1-800-950-6264. This is a great resource not only for emergency situations but also for guidance on where and how to access additional free resources in your area.

How Does It Work?

Just like private psychotherapy, you will receive an individualized treatment plan by a Clinical Intern according to your needs and circumstances. You will have the ability to meet regularly for counseling while you work toward your mental health goals at a reduced private pay rate. (Individual circumstances and needs will be reviewed and approved by the Director prior to scheduling).

How Do I Qualify?

You qualify if one or more of the following apply to you:
A. You do not have insurance
B. Your insurance plan does not have out of network benefits
C. You cannot afford our Private Pay rates
D. You think an Intern's specialties reflect your personal needs

What Is The Cost?

Our initial “Intake Session” includes a one hour assessment to gather information and address client needs and goals. Subsequent sessions are 45 minutes. $50 per session for an individual or $80 per session for couples and families.

(ONLINE SCHEDULING IS NOT CURRENTLY AVAILABLE)

To Inquire, email us at: info.bridgescounseling@gmail.com

(please indicate request for Affordable Counseling Program specifically)

Confidential Voice Mail to leave a message requesting a call back at 908-888-6090.

What is a Clinical Intern?

Clinical Interns are counselors in training who have completed a college degree and are pursuing a Master’s Level degree in Social Work or Clinical Counseling. They are required by degree programs to complete “field training” that allows working directly with clients while under supervision by fully licensed clinicians for the purposes of engaging in problem-solving discussions and offering feedback concerning specific interventions which assures that clients receive the highest quality of care. Rest assured, they have the relevant education and background to assist clients with their mental health journey and are very eager to help! Training is provided to help clients develop better cognitive and emotional skills, and cope with various life challenges.

Seeing a clinical intern can have several benefits including the fact that you're getting "behind the scenes" expertise of a seasoned clinician, as well as a fresh perspective of an intern who may bring new, innovative approaches. In effect, it's an added layer of support and two clinicians working on your behalf!

Important note: clinical interns are with us for a specific period of time as part of their graduate degree program and will eventually end their services at Bridges Counseling according to their individual practicum contracts. Please know that soliciting clients away from Bridges Counseling as an intern is strictly prohibited as well as unethical. Should your intern come to the end of their contract during your time with us, Bridges Counseling will automatically find a suitable replacement of equal or greater expertise within our organization so that services are uninterrupted and can continue seamlessly for you. All clinical notes can be shared and discussed prior to a transition with your approval.

Meet Clinical Intern, MICHELLE AHN

Please contact the office to see if you qualify for services with Michelle!

You can read Michelle's Bio and watch her intro video in the Our Team tab.