How to start counseling in Tucson
Learn how to start counseling in Tucson and prepare for your first counseling appointment with someone who feels like a good fit.
You do not need to have everything figured out before your first counseling appointment. You may know what you want help with, or you may still be finding the words.
At Joshua Tree, getting started means choosing your counselor, requesting a session, and completing your paperwork. Follow the steps below to learn what happens next.
01 / Find your fit
Start counseling in Tucson with the right fit.
Before requesting your first counseling appointment in Tucson, take time to find someone whose experience and approach connect with what you need. Feeling comfortable with the person you choose matters, too.
Explore our counselor profiles to learn who each person serves, the concerns they work with, and how they approach counseling. You can also compare session fees, office locations, and in-person or telehealth options.
When someone feels like a good fit, you can take the next step. If you are still unsure, Kelly can help you consider a few options.
02 / Make your request
Request your first counseling appointment in Tucson.
Once you have chosen your counselor, request a counseling appointment through our secure booking portal. Select a day and time that work for you, then follow the steps below.
- Select the counselor you would like to see.
- Choose an available day and time.
- Enter your name and contact information. Adult clients should use their own name and email address.
- Add a valid credit card. A card on file is required for scheduled services.
Joshua Tree is private pay. Check your counselor’s fee before requesting a session. Read about fees and payment.
03 / Get ready to meet
Before you start counseling in Tucson: paperwork.
After your first counseling appointment in Tucson is accepted, you will receive an invitation to our secure client portal. Complete your intake information and electronically sign the required documents before your first session.
- Use the portal invitation to access your account.
- Complete the intake questions and review your service agreements.
- E-sign every required document. For couples and teens under 18, make sure all required people have signed.
If you have trouble accessing or finishing your forms, contact Kelly before the deadline so she can help.
A few details before you book
Starting counseling in Tucson: couples, teens, and adults.
Before your first counseling appointment in Tucson, check who needs to request the session and sign consent. Requirements differ for couples, teens, and adults.
Couples
One partner may request the appointment. Both partners must electronically sign consent for treatment at least 24 hours before the first session.
Make sure each partner receives and completes the required documents. If either person’s consent is missing at the deadline, the appointment will be canceled.
Teens
A parent or legal guardian may request counseling for a teen under 18. The first appointment is with the parent or guardian only.
If parents are married, one parent’s consent is required. If parents are divorced, legally separated, or were never married, both parents must sign consent for treatment.
Another adult
The adult receiving counseling must request their own appointment using their own name and email address, even if someone else will pay.
You may help with the cost through an approved third-party payment arrangement. Contact Kelly to set this up before the first session.
If your family has a different custody or guardianship arrangement, please contact Kelly before booking so the required consent documents can be reviewed.
Your first appointment
Your first counseling appointment in Tucson.
Before your first session, confirm whether you are meeting in person or online. Check your counselor’s office location or telehealth instructions so you know where to begin.
Start counseling in person in Tucson.
For an in-person counseling appointment in Tucson, check which office your counselor uses. Joshua Tree has two nearby Northwest Tucson locations: La Cholla and Oracle. Counselors may work at either office or both.
- La Cholla
- 7522 N La Cholla Blvd
Tucson, AZ 85741
La Cholla directions (opens in a new tab) - Oracle
- 6891 N Oracle Rd #155
Tucson, AZ 85704
Oracle directions (opens in a new tab)
Your first online counseling appointment.
For an online session, choose a quiet, private space and use the telehealth link provided. Check your internet connection, camera, and microphone before your appointment begins.
If you will be outside Arizona for an online appointment, check with your counselor before scheduling or traveling.
Your client portal keeps your appointment information and paperwork in one place. Sign in to your portal.
You don’t need to arrive with a perfectly organized story.
Your first counseling appointment in Tucson gives you space to share what brings you here, ask questions, and get to know your counselor. Start with what feels most important to you; you do not need to have all the answers.
A few common questions
Questions about how to start counseling in Tucson.
Do I need a referral to start counseling?
You can start counseling in Tucson at Joshua Tree without a referral. Choose your counselor and request your first session directly through our secure online portal.
How much does counseling cost, and do you take insurance?
Before your first counseling appointment in Tucson, check the fee listed on your counselor’s profile. Fees vary by counselor and service. Joshua Tree is private pay and accepts credit card payments only. A valid card must remain on file.
Clients receiving psychotherapy from a licensed counselor may request a superbill for possible out-of-network reimbursement. Your insurance plan determines eligibility. Superbills are not available for internship sessions or pastoral counseling. Read our fees and payment information.
What if I’m unsure which counselor to choose?
Start with profiles that match your concerns, age group, and preferred way of meeting. For help narrowing your options before your first session, use the counseling inquiry form below. Kelly can suggest a few counselors for you to consider.
What if I need help scheduling my first appointment?
Kelly can help with the practical steps to start counseling in Tucson. She can assist with booking, portal access, or an email address already connected to Joshua Tree. Use the inquiry form below or text (520) 308-4999.
Can someone else pay for my counseling?
Yes, with an approved third-party payment arrangement. Contact Kelly before your first counseling appointment to complete a Third Party Payor Agreement and arrange the card on file.
Paying for counseling does not give the payer access to your clinical information or counseling records. Payment responsibilities, including any applicable late-cancellation or missed-appointment fees, are explained in the agreement.
What if I need to cancel or want a different counselor?
Once your first counseling appointment has been accepted, you can cancel it in your client portal. Review your service agreement for the cancellation policy and any applicable fees.
If you would like to work with a different counselor, contact Kelly for help making the change. If you decide not to begin counseling, contact her about removing your card on file.
Will Christian faith be part of my counseling?
Before you start counseling in Tucson, consider whether you would like faith included in your sessions. In licensed counseling, you can discuss whether and how faith is integrated. You can also choose counseling without faith integration.
Pastoral counseling at Joshua Tree begins with a Christian framework. Read about the different kinds of care and share your preferences with your counselor.
Your next step
Ready for your first counseling appointment in Tucson?
If you are ready to start counseling in Tucson, explore our counselor profiles and find someone who feels like a good fit. Then request your first counseling appointment through the secure portal.
Counseling inquiry
Help with starting counseling in Tucson.
If you have questions about how to start counseling in Tucson, use the inquiry form below. Kelly, our practice manager, can help you compare counselor options and work through booking or paperwork questions.
For a quick question, you can also text Kelly.
Please keep your inquiry to general scheduling and fit questions. Use your secure client portal for sensitive clinical information.