Common questions
We've got answers.
Whether you're considering counseling, coaching, or simply not sure yet—start here.
Counseling vs. Coaching
Two services, one heart.
What is the difference between licensed counseling and biblical coaching?
Both are rooted in the same heart—helping people grow, heal, and move toward wholeness—but they serve different needs.
Licensed counseling with Elizabeth is a clinical service. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, she is trained and credentialed to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, and trauma, using evidence-based approaches within a biblical framework.
Biblical coaching with Sam is faith-based and growth-oriented—not therapy. Drawing from Scripture, pastoral wisdom, and practical tools, Sam helps people gain clarity, find direction, and move forward in their faith, relationships, and calling. It's especially helpful for people navigating transition or looking for wise, grounded accountability.
How do I know which one is right for me?
A good rule of thumb: if you are struggling with a specific mental health concern—anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship conflict, or something that feels like it has a grip on your daily life—licensed counseling is likely the right fit.
If you are generally functioning well but feel stuck, uncertain about your direction, or looking for someone to help you grow and stay accountable, biblical coaching may be exactly what you need.
If you're still not sure, that's okay. Reach out and we'll help you figure it out together. Sometimes the best first step is simply a conversation.
Can I do both?
Absolutely—and for some people, it's a natural fit. There's no rule that says counseling and coaching have to be separate, and having both available under one roof is part of what makes Wellspring unique.
That said, we'd always start by making sure you're in the right place first. If counseling is what you need, that comes first. Coaching can be a wonderful complement as you begin to stabilize and grow—helping you move from healing into intentional forward momentum.
If you're curious whether both might be right for you, bring it up when you reach out. We're happy to talk it through.
About licensed counseling
With Elizabeth.
Does Elizabeth accept insurance?
Wellspring is a self-pay practice. We are out of network with insurance providers, meaning payment is due at the time of service. However, many insurance plans offer out-of-network benefits that may allow for partial reimbursement. As a courtesy, we automatically submit claims on your behalf through our electronic health records system—making the process as simple as possible on your end.
What does a first session with Elizabeth look like?
Your first session is called an intake session, and it's less about diving into deep work right away and more about getting to know you. Elizabeth will take time to understand your story, what's been weighing on you, and what you most want to see change. Together, you'll begin mapping out a plan built specifically around your goals.
It's also a chance to get a feel for Elizabeth and ask any questions you have. There's no pressure to have it all figured out before you walk in—you just have to show up.
How long does therapy typically last?
Everyone's needs are different, but I typically recommend starting with weekly sessions and committing to at least 6 to 8 of them, just to build real momentum. As progress is made and things begin to shift, we'll gradually space out support, moving from active work into something more like maintenance.
It's true that in therapy, "you get out what you put in." The clients who make the quickest progress are the ones who invest the most, in and out of session.
How long are sessions?
The initial intake session typically lasts a full 60-minute hour. Each additional session lasts 50 minutes—considered the "therapeutic hour".
Do you offer telehealth or in-person sessions?
We offer both telehealth services and in-person sessions at our office located in downtown Fort Myers.
What is your cancellation policy?
We ask that you provide at least 24 hours notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment. Cancellations made within 24 hours of your session will be charged the full session fee.
That said, we understand that life happens. If something unexpected comes up, we're happy to explore switching to a virtual session last minute so you don't lose your time or incur a cancellation fee. Just reach out as soon as you know—the earlier we hear from you, the more options we have.
What ages does Elizabeth work with?
Elizabeth works with adolescents ages 10 and up, adult individuals, and couples. She also offers marriage and family counseling and parenting sessions, which may involve family members of varying ages. If you're not sure whether your situation is a good fit, don't hesitate to reach out—we're happy to help figure it out together.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept credit cards, cash, and checks. All payments are due at the time of service.
Is everything I share confidential?
Yes—what you share in session stays in session. Confidentiality is a cornerstone of the counseling relationship, and Elizabeth and Sam take it seriously. You should feel free to be honest and open without fear of what you share leaving the room.
That said, there are a few legal and ethical exceptions to confidentiality that all licensed counselors and mandated reporters are required to follow. These include situations where there is reason to believe someone is in danger of harming themselves or others, or where there is suspected abuse or neglect of a child or vulnerable adult. In those situations, Elizabeth and Sam may be required by law to take action to ensure safety.
These exceptions exist to protect you and others—not to undermine your trust. They'll be explained in full during your intake session, and you'll have the opportunity to ask any questions before you begin.
Do I have to be a Christian to work with Elizabeth and Sam?
Not at all. Elizabeth and Sam both welcome clients from all backgrounds and beliefs, and have extensive experience working with people who don't share their faith. You will always be treated with warmth, respect, and without judgment—regardless of where you are spiritually.
Their faith informs who they are and how they work, but it is never imposed. For clients who don't want faith integrated into their sessions, it won't be. For those who do, that door is open. Either way, the focus is always on you—your goals, your growth, and your wellbeing.
What does faith-integrated therapy actually look like in a session?
It looks less like a separate layer added on top of therapy and more like a lens through which everything is understood. Elizabeth's biblical worldview shapes how she conceptualizes what you're experiencing, how she understands people and relationships, and how she determines the best path forward—all while drawing from the same evidence-based approaches that inform quality clinical work. The two aren't in tension. They're integrated.
In practice, this might look like exploring how your sense of identity or worth is connected to what you believe about yourself and about God. It might mean bringing your faith into the conversation when it's relevant—not as a prescription, but as a resource. It is never reduced to "pray more" or "just have more faith." That's not therapy, and it's not what Elizabeth does.
For clients who are followers of Jesus, faith won't just be tolerated in the room—it will be genuinely welcomed and woven into the work. For those who aren't, the same clinical excellence and compassionate care applies. The worldview informs the work without being imposed on the person.
About biblical coaching
With Sam.
Biblical coaching is not licensed mental health therapy and is not a substitute for clinical care.
Is biblical coaching confidential?
While biblical coaching does not carry the same legal HIPAA confidentiality protections as a licensed clinical relationship, Sam treats everything shared in sessions as strictly confidential. Your personal information is also kept in a HIPAA compliant electronic health record system.
What does a first coaching session with Sam look like?
Your first session involves Sam spending time understanding your story, hearing what is keeping you stuck, and identifying what goals you would like to work towards. Together you will map out a practical plan for growth.
Do I have to be a Christian to work with Sam?
Sam believes men were designed by God for a life of purpose, strength, and integrity. Regardless of your faith, you'll walk away with practical tools to grow into the man you want to be.
Scheduling & logistics
Getting started.
How do I schedule a session?
The easiest way is through our contact form—choose your path (counseling or coaching) and we'll be in touch within one business day. You're also welcome to reach us by phone or email.
Do you offer virtual sessions?
Yes. Elizabeth offers telehealth therapy across Florida and Wisconsin, with in-person sessions available in downtown Fort Myers. Sam offers coaching both in person and virtually.
Where are you located?
Our office is located at 1713 Hough Street in Fort Myers, Florida, 33901. In-person and virtual options are both available, depending on what works best for you.