Prioritizing Your Mental Health and Well Being!

Cortez Counseling
  • Home
  • Book Appointment
  • Meet Dr. Cortez
  • Common Difficulties
  • Therapeutic Approach
  • Contact Me
  • FAQ'S
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  • Make A Difference
  • More
    • Home
    • Book Appointment
    • Meet Dr. Cortez
    • Common Difficulties
    • Therapeutic Approach
    • Contact Me
    • FAQ'S
    • Español
    • Make A Difference
Cortez Counseling
  • Home
  • Book Appointment
  • Meet Dr. Cortez
  • Common Difficulties
  • Therapeutic Approach
  • Contact Me
  • FAQ'S
  • Español
  • Make A Difference

Frequently Asked Questions

I offer a complimentary 15 minute phone or video consultation to assess fit and answer any questions, so you can make an informed decision. Click the “Book an Appointment” button to view my availability.


  • Standard sessions are 50 minutes for individuals 
  • In take Sessions are 60 minutes (initial client intake sessions).
  • Longer sessions can be arranged with an advance notice/request at a prorated. fee. 


I accept the following insurance plans, in-network!

  • Aetna
  • Optum
  • United Healthcare
  • Carelon/Carelon Behavioral Health
  • Out-of-Pocket (Superbill provided monthly or at longer intervals for you to submit to insurance for reimbursement)


  • The length of services depends on your specific needs and goals. 
  • Some clients may find resolution in a shorter timeframe of 6 to 8 sessions, others may opt for a longer-term approach spanning several months or even years to explore deeper issues and make permanent changes. 
  • Your commitment to the process will ultimately determine the outcome and duration of therapy.


During the Session you will need:

  • Stable Internet Connection: Ensure uninterrupted video conferencing with Simple Practice Telehealth.
  • Active Camera: Maintain engagement and communication with an active camera during sessions.
  • Minimize Distractions: Stay focused by disconnecting from other activities during the session.

Between Sessions be proactive:

  • Practice Prescribed Exercises: Enhance therapeutic progress with consistent exercise practice.
  • Record Thoughts and Changes: Track personal insights and progress in a dedicated notebook.


  • Appointments must be cancelled with a minimum of 24 hours’ notice. Cancellations made with less than 24 hours’ notice will be charged the full session fee. Insurance only reimburses for services rendered, so missed or late-cancelled sessions are not covered. 
  • This policy helps protect my ability to provide care and maintain the sustainability of my practice.


  • I do not engage with clients in any capacity on social media platforms. 
  • While I may post informational content on social media, comments are typically disabled to maintain confidentiality. 
  • Additionally, to best protect your confidentiality, I discourage any posting related to your therapeutic process.


Please reach me at Christy@CortezCounseling.com if you have additional questions.


Crisis Help

Emergency – Call 911

For any life-threatening emergency.

⸻

Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Dial 988

Free 24/7 national support (veterans press 1).

https://988lifeline.org

⸻

Crisis Text Line – Text HOME to 741741

Text-based crisis support, available 24/7.

https://www.crisistextline.org

⸻

County of SB Behavioral Wellness Crisis Line (24/7)

Call (888) 868-1649

Mental health or substance-use crises, referrals, and mobile response.

https://www.countyofsb.org/behavioral-wellness

⸻

Central Coast Hotline

Call or text (800) 783-0607

Confidential emotional and mental health support.

https://www.t-mha.org

⸻

Domestic Violence Solutions (24/7)

Call (805) 964-5245

Emergency shelter, counseling, and safety planning.

https://www.dvsolutions.org

⸻

The Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ Youth)

Call (866) 488-7386 or text START to 678678

Crisis support for LGBTQ+ youth.

https://www.thetrevorproject.org

⸻

Noah’s Anchorage (Youth 12–17)

Call (805) 963-8775

Youth shelter and crisis services.

https://www.noahsanchorage.org


  • Home
  • Book Appointment
  • Meet Dr. Cortez
  • Common Difficulties
  • Therapeutic Approach
  • Contact Me
  • FAQ'S
  • Español
  • Make A Difference

Cortez Counseling & Associates

924 Anacapa Street | Unit 4E | Santa Barbara | California 93101

Christy@CortezCounseling.Com

Fax: 805.500.0711

©2024 Cortez Counseling & Associates. All rights R

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