Frequently Asked Questions

Not at all. A referral simply means that someone in your child’s life cares about their well-being and wants to make sure they have access to support. Therapy is a form of health care—just like an annual check-up or a sports physical—and can be both preventive and strengthening. Your child doesn’t need to be “in trouble” or experiencing a crisis to benefit from talking with a trained professional. And if something is going on, we work alongside you as part of your child’s care team. We help develop care plans, coordinate resources, and provide consistent support so your child can thrive.

It’s very common for caring adults—teachers, mentors, coaches, or family members—to reach out when they notice changes in a young person’s behavior, stress level, or performance. A referral is not a judgment of you or your child. It’s an act of support. We often say it takes a village, and this is your village looking out for your child’s future. A referral to Hopebound simply means someone believes your child deserves additional care and resources. We believe that too.

Hopebound operates for most of the academic year, from fall through late spring. Families may choose to renew each year. Because we partner with different clinician cohorts annually, your child will typically be matched with a new clinician the following year. If your child returns, we will ensure they are paired with an equally caring and well-trained clinician to continue their wellness journey.

Hopebound serves young people ages 10–24. Our services support individuals from 4th grade through young adulthood, with programming tailored to each stage of development.

When a client transitions out of Hopebound services, we provide referrals to trusted external providers for those who wish to continue counseling.

A strong therapeutic connection is important, and sometimes a match simply isn’t the right fit. If your child isn’t connecting with their clinician, please reach out to our Program Manager, Araya McGee, at arayamcgee@hopebound.com. We will explore whether a new match is possible, based on clinician availability. We do our very best to accommodate these requests. As with any partnership, flexibility and patience from all sides helps us support your child’s wellness journey.

Hopebound offers no- or low-cost therapy through a sliding scale of $0–$30 per session, based on what caregivers feel comfortable contributing. Insurance is not required. Our commitment is that financial barriers should never prevent a young person from receiving care. Contributions help us sustain that mission, and we operate fully in good faith with no requirement to prove financial status.

Hopebound partners with exceptional master’s-level counseling trainees who bring fresh, evidence-based approaches and are closely supported by a licensed clinical supervisor. Each clinician completes a rigorous interview process, comprehensive onboarding, and ongoing training throughout the year.

They work under the supervision of a licensed professional and collaborate regularly with our full-time team. Research shows that “near-peer” clinicians—professionals closer in age and experience to the youth they serve—can build strong rapport and support positive social-emotional and academic outcomes. Our model blends high-quality training, close supervision, and meaningful connection for young people.

We aim to provide consistent, high-quality care while respecting the time of families and clinicians. To ensure equitable access for all clients, Hopebound uses a three-strike attendance policy for late cancellations (within 24 hours) or no-shows. After three missed sessions, your child may be placed on hold so another young person can receive care.

Additional details:

• Please cancel or reschedule at least 24 hours in advance.
• If a client does not join the session within 15 minutes, it is marked as a no-show.
• We understand that life happens—communication helps us make the best plan for your child’s support.

Our goal is always to partner with you in maintaining consistent care that benefits your child.

Building trust between your child and their clinician is essential for effective therapy. For that reason, sessions are confidential. Clinicians share information only when your child’s safety, or someone else’s, is at risk.

To keep you informed and involved, your child’s clinician will schedule regular family check-ins. These conversations help us work together, discuss progress, and address any questions or concerns you may have.

Please reach out to Araya McGee, Program Manager, arayamcgee@hopebound.com