Answers to help you feel at ease

Frequently Asked Questions

We know that reaching out for support can bring up questions, especially in uncertain times. Below, we offer answers to some of the most common questions we hear, so you can feel confident and supported as you begin your journey with us.

  • If you’re facing a mental health emergency, please call 911, go to the nearest emergency room, or connect with 24/7 support:

    • Call or text 988, or visit 988lifeline.org

    • Region Ten Emergency Services: 434.972.1800 (24/7)

  • You can start by attending an initial consultation, either in person during our walk-in clinic or by phone during call-in clinic hours. This session includes your intake and a brief counseling conversation with a therapist, which is free of charge and lasts about one hour. For more information on available times and when to arrive, visit our wellness clinic page.

  • Eligibility is based on several factors, including financial circumstances and where you live. The best way to find out if you’re eligible is by attending a screening during our walk-in clinic or by phone during call-in clinic hours. If we’re not the right fit, we’ll do our best to provide referrals to other providers in the area.

  • If you’re eligible for counseling services, you’ll be added to our waitlist, which is typically around four weeks. After that, a counselor will reach out based on your communication preferences. If you are not eligible for our counseling services, you are welcome to join our group resilience programs to learn new skills for self-care and to connect with others.

  • No documents or insurance are required. You will complete a short form, either in person or by email. All services are free, and we do not accept insurance.

  • You’re welcome to return three months after your last session to complete a new intake and updated paperwork to be screened for counseling services.

  • Our licensed counselors use approaches rooted in trauma-informed, culturally responsive care, including:

    • Internal Family Systems (IFS)

    • EMDR

    • Mindfulness, art therapy, and more

    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

    We also offer:

    You’re welcome to request a specific approach or counselor during your intake.

  • We offer individual counseling only, but we’re happy to share referrals for couples or family services.

  • We serve adults 18 and older. For support for children or teens, we recommend connecting with ReadyKids.

  • We’re grateful when you share our services, but the person seeking counseling must contact us directly or attend a free wellness clinic.

  • Yes. We provide interpretation and translation in many languages, including ASL, through PROPIO, which specializes in mental health and follows strict confidentiality standards.

  • Yes. We follow all HIPAA guidelines. Your information is never shared without your written permission, and you choose how we contact you.

  • No. The Women’s Initiative remains committed to trauma-informed, culturally responsive care. We continue to offer programs centering women, and members of the LGBTQ+ community and communities of color. We will adapt as needed to preserve access to our services.

  • Our services are supported by a mix of community giving, grants, and partnerships. While we are monitoring federal policy changes closely, we remain committed to providing care at no cost to participants.

  • We follow all HIPAA privacy rules. We never share your information without your written permission, and we do not report participant information to any government agencies.

  • Immigration status is not part of our eligibility requirements to receive services at The Women’s Initiative.