"What kind of problems do you treat?"
JF&CS works with individuals and families that may be struggling with any number of difficulties. Child development problems, difficulties in school, troubled relationships in one's marriage or between the generations, divorce and separation, anxiety and depression are some of the problems that we help people with. Individuals may also have difficulties in the workplace, concerns about aging and disability or the stress of certain life circumstances, such as unemployment, illness, death of a family member or friend or the detection of a learning problem in a child.

"What are your staff's credentials?"
Our staff is highly trained and experienced in working with individuals, couples, families and groups. All JF&CS therapist have earned Master's Degrees in Social Work, are licensed as Clinical Social Workers in New Jersey. May have additional postgraduate training and special expertise in working with children, couples, families and the elderly. For a fuller description of the JF&CS staff, and their credentials and experience, please see our "Staff" webpage.

"I've never seen a counselor before. What is it like?"
The counseling process and the relationship that develops between the client and the counselor are both very special. People have described it as "exciting," "scary," "energizing," and "inspiring." They have said that, "I looked at things in a different way," and "I was able to think about many issues from another perspective." Because the counseling relationship is confidential, clients feel freer to talk about many issues and life experiences that they had previously been reluctant to discuss. A counselor can help you in thinking about your concerns, making choices and facing difficult issues regarding yourself, your relationships or your work-life. Your concerns and goals are discussed in your initial interviews and reviewed during the counseling process.

"What kind of counseling do you do? How long does it take?"
JF&CS offers many types of counseling and psychotherapy. It is difficult to say how "long" the counseling process takes. Factors such as the nature of the problem, your goals and availability, as well as your therapist's assessment of the situation all must be considered. Our focus is not on the length of treatment but on its quality and effectiveness based on the special needs of each client.

"We are not Jewish. Can we call JF&CS?"
JF&CS services are open and available to the entire community regardless of religious, ethnic or racial background. Our programs and services reflect the Jewish principles of social concern and communal responsibility.

"I am thinking of making an appointment, but I am concerned that I might run into someone who recognizes me. Does that ever happen?"
While this rarely occurs, it may happen. If you wish, we can try to schedule your appointment in such a way or at such a time to minimize the possibility of this occurring. JF&CS has two locations: our main office in Wayne and our branch office in Fair Lawn. Both locations are available for appointments.

"Will my insurance cover the agency fee for counseling?"
In most cases, clients are able to pay for services through a combination of direct payment and health insurance. JF&CS is a participating member of many insurance plans and HMO's. The details of this process will be clarified at the time of your first appointment, or before if necessary.

"What happens when my insurance benefits for counseling run out? Do I have to stop coming to JF&CS?"
Service at JF&CS does not depend on a client's health insurance or even whether you have health insurance. In the event that your benefits either change, are terminated or reach their maximum, we will work with you to determine a fee and payment plan that will enable you to continue receiving service.

"I don't need counseling, but I think my husband does? How can I convince him to make an appointment?"
This is not an unusual situation. The first step would be to speak to a staff person on the phone to discuss your concerns. Options include suggesting that your husband call for a consultation, coming in together to discuss the problem or, in some cases, coming in yourself. Our staff can help you make this decision.

"If I bring my child in, will his school find out about it?"
All services at JF&CS are confidential. We will not give out information or discuss a client with a third party without a signed consent form, except in certain cases as required by law. If you wish, we would speak with other professionals involved with your child, but only with your written consent.

"I need some advice and information so that I can better look after my elderly parents. Is JF&CS the right place for me to call?"
Absolutely. Senior Adult Services provide telephone information and referrals for in-home services, alternate living options, kosher meals on wheels, transportation, and community programs for the elderly. Staff is available for consultation with adult children, and makes home visits to the elderly to assess needs and develop a care plan. We provide a wide variety of services through our geriatric care management services.

"My mom is in her 80's, lives alone, and doesn't get out much. She seems so sad. Is there counseling for older people?"
Sadness and depression are common in older people whose once active lives have brought changes and loss. Our Senior Adult social workers are skilled therapists who provide support to the elderly. Home visits are available to those who are homebound.

"Do you accept credit cards?"
At this time, JF&CS does not accept credit cards although we will be able to do so in the near future.

"Do you have a psychiatrist on staff?"
JF&CS works with several specialists in the fields of psychiatry, psychology and neurology. If you and your therapist feel it would be useful for you to obtain a consultation or an evaluation for medication or other services, we will make the appropriate referral and work with you and the consulting professional.

"I'm not sure about taking the first step. What should I do?"
The first step is often the hardest one to take. It is important to know that all of your questions and concerns about counseling are valid and important. We encourage you to call JF&CS with any questions you might have and we will be glad to address them.

For further information, or to make an appointment, please call us at
(973)595-011 (Wayne) or (201) 796-5151 (Fair Lawn) or email at info@jfcsnj.org.