Starting Therapy Is Easier Than You Think
Whether you're new to counseling or returning after a break, we make it simple to take the first step. Here's everything you need to know about getting started at River City Integrative Counseling.
Your Path to Care — Step by Step
From your first call to your first session, we walk alongside you every step of the way.
Reach Out
Start with our Psychology Today profile to review details and request care. You can also call (804) 230-0999if you'd like direct support from our team.
Matching & Intake
We begin with a thoughtful matching conversation and intake review to better understand what you're experiencing, your goals, and your preferences. There are no wrong answers — it's a conversation, not a test.
Begin Your Journey
Your first session is a deeper clinical assessment with your therapist. Together you'll build a personalized treatment plan — in person or via HIPAA-compliant telehealth, whichever you prefer.
What to Expect at Each Stage
A closer look at each step of the intake journey.
Step 1 – Initial Call
Start with our Psychology Today profile or call our intake line at (804) 230-0999. Our team will answer your questions, explain what we offer, and schedule a time that works for you. No pressure, no obligation.
All communications are completely confidential.
Step 2 – Intake Screening
A brief intake conversation with a member of our clinical team covers what you're experiencing, your treatment goals, and any relevant history. This helps us build a plan for outpatient care and recommendations.
There are no wrong answers. The intake is a conversation, not a test.
Step 3 – Insurance Verification
Our billing team verifies your insurance benefits before your first appointment so you know exactly what is covered and what, if anything, you'll owe — no surprises at check-in.
Don't have insurance? We can discuss self-pay options and help you explore coverage you may qualify for.
Step 4 – Your First Appointment
Your first session is a clinical assessment — a deeper conversation with your assigned therapist about your history, current concerns, and goals. Together, you'll build a personalized treatment plan.
Available in person at our Richmond office or via HIPAA-compliant telehealth.
Step 5 – Ongoing Care & Progress
Regular sessions begin — weekly at first for most clients, then adjusted as you progress. Your treatment plan is reviewed and updated collaboratively as your needs evolve.
Insurance & Access
River City Integrative Counseling accepts Medicaid and many commercial insurance plans. For current panel details, please review our Psychology Today profile and call us for verification.
Plans we accept include:
- Medicaid (Virginia Medicaid / Magellan)
- Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Aetna
- Cigna
- United Healthcare / Optum
- Optima Health
- And more — verify your specific plan through our Psychology Today page or by phone
Insurance accepted may change. Please call to confirm your specific plan is currently in-network.
No Insurance? No Problem.
We can help you explore Medicaid eligibility, discuss self-pay sliding-scale options, and connect you with grant-funded resources. We are committed to making care accessible — call us to talk through your options.
Confidentiality & HIPAA
All sessions and records are protected under HIPAA and applicable Virginia law. Mental health and substance use records have additional confidentiality protections — your information is never shared without your written consent, except as required by law.
What to Bring to Your First Appointment
Don't let paperwork stop you from taking the first step — we can gather what we need over time. But if you have these items, bring them along:
- A valid photo ID
- Your insurance card (if applicable)
- A list of current medications (name and dosage)
- Prior treatment records (optional)
- Emergency contact information
Flexible Scheduling Options
- Morning & afternoon appointment slots
- Telehealth & in-person options
- Rapid access — most clients seen within days
- Confidential, judgment-free intake
- Insurance benefit verification before your visit