One of the best things that happened in my life was discovering Pinecrest Counseling. It may sound cheesy, but I was so relieved and glad when I discovered this place. I found out about it through my previous employer's Employee Assistance Program (EAP). I was given a list of referrals and after doing some research on the Internet, I settled on Iris More. I called to make an appointment but she was booked, so I waited a month for the next available appointment and it was worth the wait despite how awful I was feeling at the time.
I started off going once or twice a week, then every other or few weeks, and then back to every week. I usually make one or two months worth of appointments ahead of time because Iris gets booked pretty quickly. The day before every appointment, you get a text to confirm yes or no. If you do not reply, they will remind you again. They do that to ensure that the session gets allocated to someone else if you cancel or do not reply back to confirm. I think it's fair and logical because someone else can really use that session to feel better or get help.
I love the waiting area because it's cozy and welcoming. The magazines on the tables are actually helpful and diverse. There is calm music playing in the background along with tissues readily available for any tears dropped. Motivational quotes and artwork are decorated throughout the offices. There is a little room with cold, room temperature, and hot water dispenser. You can make teas and coffees if you'd like. The restroom is off in the back at a corner. It's always clean and well endowed with good toilet papers and paper towels. Parking is usually plenty. The office is open til late, which is easier for people who work like a 9-5 job.
Before every appointment, payment is collected by the receptionist using Square. I think that using that payment collection method is fine, not sure why the other Yelper has something against it. Every office operates differently, so I don't think it's wrong of them to use Square or not accept HSA. I am glad that they don't charge the clients the Square fee. The office accepts some major insurance plans. They can also do Emotional Support Animal (ESA) letters, but you must qualify for them and your therapist will determine that from the sessions.
I've been going to Iris for a while now and she has been amazing. Iris's office is cute and comfortable, and has natural lighting. Aside from the 20 to 30 minute wait sometimes, every session is worth it for me. I always learn something new and gain new insight every time. Iris provides professional, unbiased, helpful, and great advice. She is patient and not judgmental. She helps you see situation and different aspects of your life in another perspective. She remembers everything I share with her and follows up. I think she's great and I absolutely love working with her. Everything that I've learned and has helped me--I've been able to pass onto friends or others to help them as well.
I had been hesitant about leaving a review because this is something that I don't really broadcast, but if my review can help someone consider coming to this office for therapy, I would highly recommend it, because coming here has helped me so much. Please also keep in mind that the therapist that works for me may or may not work for you, so try it out before making final decisions about who to work with in the long run. Remember, look for someone who you connect with and you feel who can help you throughout your mental health journey. Oh! And the effectiveness of therapy also depends on the willingness and readiness of the client to get better.
Lastly, I'd like to share this quote that my colleague, Isabel, shared with me, "For you to sustain your recovery you will need to pace yourself and focus on maintenance and sustainability. Emotional health is a life-long pursuit and more like a marathon than a race.
Breathe. Pause. Proceed. Start Again.
Every day, gently." :-) read more