FAQs

Getting Started at Novus Family Counseling and Recovery

Where do I start?

Getting started with therapy can feel intimidating and overwhelming, and taking the first step can feel difficult. At Novus, it is important to us to meet you where you are on your journey.

We want to make it as easy as possible, so we use our secure HIPAA-compliant messaging system, Klara. It’s easy and fast to use. Simply send us a text to 562-431-5100 or click the purple “Message Us” button at the bottom of the page.

What challenges or struggles do you help with?

Novus provides support to people struggling with overwhelming emotions, such as anxiety, depression, stress, grief, and anger.  We specialize in treating relationship conflict challenges, sex addiction, pornography addiction, betrayal trauma, and behaviral addiction recovery.

What types of therapy do you offer?

At Novus we have a wonderful team of compassionate and knowledgeable therapists who provide individual therapy, couples therapy, group therapy, marriage and relationship counseling.

Our therapists have use many different techniques such as regular talk therapy, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), GMI (Guided Music and Imagery), DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and other modalities.

What is a CSAT?

A Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist (CSAT) is a Licensed Therapist who has gone through additional rigorous certification and training programs offered by the International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals (IITAP).

CSATs are highly trained trauma treatment experts who support clients working through difficulties that untrained clinicians may overlook. CSATs have a deep understanding of the root causes, experiences, patterns, and trauma that can lead to compulsive sexual behaviors.

Our CSAT team is betrayal trauma-focused and can help partners of betrayal heal the overwhelming trauma that comes with a partner addicted to sex or pornography.

Are your therapists experienced in trauma?

Our therapists are highly experienced in Trauma Model Therapy. This is a structured therapy that involves a blend of cognitive-behavioral, systems, psychodynamic and experiential principles. The program can be delivered in individual or group therapy in an in-patient or out-patient setting.

We approach our therapy from a trauma-focused lens, using all our therapeutic modalities to help you resolve trauma and the overwhelming thoughts and emotions that go with it. Trauma does not have to be your life. There is healing.

Do you take insurance?

Novus is not contracted with any insurance companies.  We are a cash-pay facility and payment in full is taken at the time of service.  If you do have a PPO plan with Out of Network mental health coverage, we can submit courtesy claims on your behalf following the session to request any reimbursement you may be eligible for be paid directly to you.  Many of our clients are able to obtain partial reimbursement once their out of network deductible has been met.   

Do you take Medicare or Medi-Cal?

Services provided at Novus are not covered under Medicare or Medi-Cal.  Novus providers are either ineligible or have opted-out. Medicare beneficiaries who receive care from a provider at Novus must complete an opt-out agreement acknowledgement.

What does therapy cost?

The cost of therapy varies depending on the training and expertise of your therapist as well as their years of experience. We offer a range of fees and will work to coordinate the best clinical care for you that works within your budget.

What is your Covid protocol?

Due to Covid-19, we are currently offering in-person therapy for clients who are fully vaccinated. If you are not vaccinated, we can provide support to you remotely via video or phone sessions. 

All staff at our office in Long Beach are fully vaccinated. Sanitizing cleanliness measures have been implemented and FDA approved air filters installed in each office.  Masks are required in our lobby and common areas, however may be removed while in session if both you and your therapist agree. 

I’m ready to schedule my first appointment. What's next?

We are honored you have chosen Novus for your road to healing and recovery. Our office is located in Long Beach, California.  You can book an intake session by calling us at 562-431-5100 or messaging us at 562-431-5100.  When you text us it will take you to our secure texting platform Klara, in which you can message our scheduling team directly.

Do you offer a free consultation?

Novus offers a free consultation with one of our trained Intake Coordinators who can speak with you to understand your unique situation, offer helpful resources and support you in finding the best therapist who can meet your treatment, scheduling and budget needs.  

How does online therapy work?

Your therapist may arrange to conduct a remote video session with you using TherapyPortal, Google Meet or any HIPAA compliant platform. 

What can I expect therapy to be like?

Usually in your first session your therapist will ask you a few questions to better understand what you are struggling with and what support you will need. You will leave the session with a plan on how to manage the struggles you are experiencing.

Each individual experiences therapy differently. You should leave therapy empowered, supported, and understood even when things are difficult.

How often do I have to come in?

Most individuals attend therapy weekly. You are always in control of the therapeutic process and how often you attend. Your therapist will assist you with a recommendation of how often visits might be scheduled based on your unique needs.   

You Are One Step
Away From Recovery