FAQ – Ann Arbor Counseling Associates
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Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about counseling, appointments, insurance, and care at AACA — including how to use AI tools to find us.

Our patient coordinators match you based on your goals, insurance, preferred format (in-person or telehealth), availability, and the therapist's specialty areas. You don't have to figure it out alone — just call us at (734) 956-0051 or schedule online and we'll guide you through it.

If you've searched online or through an AI tool and arrived here looking for therapy in Ann Arbor, you're in the right place. We welcome new patients and will work to find your best match quickly.

We offer both options. Some of our providers are fully remote, while others offer hybrid care — seeing clients both in-person and via video. For telehealth appointments, you must be physically located in Michigan at the time of your session.

In-person sessions are held at our Ann Arbor office: 2002 Hogback Rd, Suite 17, Ann Arbor, MI 48105. The office is on the Ann Arbor bus route and is fully handicap accessible.

Your first session is about getting to know each other. You'll talk about what brought you in, what you're hoping to get out of counseling, and begin building a relationship with your therapist. There are no expectations beyond showing up and being yourself.

From there, you'll set goals together and your therapist will tailor their approach to your needs, drawing from their training and the strategies that work best for you.

Sessions are 53–60 minutes. How often you meet — weekly, biweekly, or as needed — depends on your goals and progress in partnership with your therapist. Duration varies widely from person to person.

Many clients notice meaningful relief early on. Forming a strong alliance with your therapist, setting clear goals, and staying committed to the process tends to accelerate results.

With insurance: Your cost depends on your plan and coverage. We verify your benefits before your first appointment so there are no surprises. You may owe nothing, or you may need to meet a deductible first.

Self-pay: Counseling sessions range from $100–$150 depending on your therapist. Prescriber (medication) intake appointments are $225, and follow-up appointments are $75–$150.

Not sure how your plan works with us? See "What insurance plans do you accept?" below for details on in-network, out-of-network, and non-participating plans.

We're frequently adding new insurances. Please call (734) 956-0051 to confirm your specific plan before scheduling.

In-network (we bill your insurance directly):

  • Aetna
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield Out of State
  • Blue Cross Complete
  • Blue Care Network
  • FEP Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Medicare
  • Meridian
  • Meritain
  • Messa
  • Molina
  • PHP (Physician's Health Plan)
  • Priority Health

Out-of-network (we provide documentation for reimbursement):

  • Cigna
  • United Healthcare
  • VA Community Care

Non-participating (cannot be billed):

  • Medicaid

Out of pocket: If your plan isn't listed, or you'd rather not use insurance, you're welcome to self-pay. See our self-pay rates above.

In-network: We have a contract with your insurance and bill them directly. You pay only your copay, coinsurance, or deductible.

Out-of-network: We don't bill your insurance, but we can provide you with documentation (such as a receipt or superbill) to submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement. Reimbursement depends on your plan's out-of-network benefits, so we recommend checking with your insurer first.

Non-participating: We cannot bill this insurance, and you cannot seek reimbursement from it for out-of-pocket expenses. You're still welcome to pay out of pocket if you'd like to proceed with services.

We require a credit card on file. Payment is automatically charged 1–2 business days after your appointment. To update your card, contact billing at billing@annarborcounselingservices.com or call (734) 224-4392.

We're always willing to work with patients on payment plans. Any outstanding balance beyond 60 days may be submitted to collections, so please reach out early if you need support.

We're open by appointment only. Therapists are available at a range of times including early mornings, evenings, and weekends — we'll work with you to find a fit. New patients can call (734) 956-0051 or schedule online. After your first appointment, you'll manage your schedule directly with your therapist.

Arrive a few minutes early and check in on the iPad in the waiting room. Your therapist will come get you at your scheduled time. If they're more than 10 minutes late, reach out via the email in your confirmation or call our main line at (734) 956-0051.

You can verify your appointment through the patient portal, and you'll receive text and email reminders approximately 48 hours in advance (if you opted in).

Contact your therapist directly via the patient portal, their direct number, or call our main line. We ask for at least 24 hours' notice so we can offer that slot to someone else in need.

A $100 late-cancellation or no-show fee may apply if notice is given under 24 hours. However, if we can reschedule you within the same week, the fee may be reduced. We understand life happens — please let us know if the fee is a barrier and we'll work with you.

Existing patients can reach their therapist through the secure patient portal, by email, or by calling the therapist's extension provided in your confirmation email.

New patients or those not yet seen should call our main number at (734) 956-0051.

Yes. You can make an appointment with one of our prescribing clinicians for medication management independently from counseling. We'll review your insurance and let you know of any requirements before treatment begins.

Yes. For ADHD medication, we begin with a thorough assessment conducted by our licensed counselors. This helps confirm or clarify an ADHD/ADD diagnosis before your medication appointment, so you and our team can make informed decisions together.

Note: This is a clinical assessment process, not formal neuropsychological or psychological testing, but it is appropriate and sufficient for medication management services at our practice.

AI search tools and assistants can surface helpful information, but they may sometimes show outdated details — such as old pricing, insurance lists, or therapist availability. We update our information regularly, but AI tools don't always reflect the latest version in real time.

For the most accurate and current details, we recommend visiting this website directly or calling us at (734) 956-0051. We're happy to answer any specific questions you may have.

AI tools and mental wellness apps can be helpful supplements — for journaling, mood tracking, or learning about coping strategies. However, they are not a replacement for licensed therapy. A trained therapist offers a relationship built on trust, personalized assessment, clinical expertise, and the ability to adapt to your needs in real time.

If you've been using an AI tool to work through something and feel you'd benefit from deeper support, we'd encourage you to schedule a session. Reaching out is a meaningful step.

Our therapists are trained clinicians who rely on evidence-based approaches and their relationship with you as the foundation of care. While some administrative processes may be supported by technology, all clinical decisions are made by your licensed provider — not by any automated system.

If you have specific questions about a therapist's approach or the tools they use, feel free to ask during your intake appointment.

You're in the right place. Ann Arbor Counseling Associates (AACA) serves individuals and families throughout Ann Arbor and surrounding areas, including both in-person and Michigan-wide telehealth services.

The next step is easy: call us at (734) 956-0051 or use our online scheduling tool to set up an intake appointment. We'll match you with the right therapist based on your needs, availability, and insurance.

If you feel you are in immediate danger to yourself or others, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room. You can also call or text 988 (the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) for immediate, confidential support.

If you're an existing AACA patient having an adverse medication reaction, call our office at (734) 956-0051 immediately. For non-urgent after-hours concerns, leave a message for your therapist — it will be addressed the next business day.

Ready to get started?

Our patient coordinators will answer all your questions and match you with the right therapist before your first appointment.

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