Therapist Spotlight: Rose Thomas LCMHC

What First Attracted You to Working for Carolina Counseling Services?

Prior to coming to Carolina Counseling Services, I worked for a large, public agency. I decided that I would be happier working in a private practice where I could rely on administrative support and still have the advantages of being a contracted employee.

Why did You Decide to Contract with Carolina Counseling Services?

“This is the best company I have ever seen with regards to how they support their clinicians and how they always comply with state and local regulations. For any contracted therapist, this is a very good thing!”

Carolina Counseling Services takes an absolutely different approach from many other services. After six years here, I love it and especially take comfort knowing that in everything from the clinical piece to the business piece, we are assured that they stay on top of changes such as licensure requirements and credentialing procedures. The administrative support is outstanding. We have no surprises, either; it’s all up front.

What Was it Like to be a New Contractor with Carolina Counseling Services?

The owners are always accessible to provide mentoring aspects to new clinicians. They are not just “thrown out there.” There are no surprises, and expectations are clearly laid out – whether your work is full-time, part-time, or whatever. Each contractor decides themselves what hours they will be working and the clients who will match with their specialties. Everything is discussed and agreed upon clearly up front.

What Makes Working for Carolina Counseling Services as a Contractor a Great Choice?

Here, we have administrative support that handles insurance claims, intake assessments and assignments, and appointment booking. The management team is always approachable and willing to assist.  Contracted therapists ensure their own liability insurance and continued licensure, and Carolina Counseling Services provides multiple administrative support services

What are the Advantages of Working as a Private Contractor?

This frees up therapists to concentrate strictly on providing services to clients and keeping required notes and records. It also protects the therapist from the risks involved with starting their own business. We also set our own schedule, as flexible as we choose, and have the ability to change it at any time. We can take time off if needed or wanted. For example, I was off work with my husband’s illness before he passed and they were very supportive.

What makes Carolina Counseling Services a Match to Your Own Personal and Professional Standards?

I especially like the opportunity to develop and grow my skills. At Carolina Counseling Services, you get to choose which populations you prefer to work with, since clients are not randomly assigned. I have expanded to work with individuals, children, and families. Within the opportunity to choose our populations, sometimes there are also referrals made within the company that allow us to arrange for sending a client to a counselor more appropriate for their needs. While counselors are treated fairly and respectfully, finding the “right fit” between client and counselor remains top priority.

How Does Carolina Counseling Services Satisfy Your Own Professional Goals?

“Coming to work with Carolina Counseling Services is an investment in yourself.”

At Carolina Counseling Services, they address what the clinician’s needs are and what they as individuals will benefit from, based upon their preferences and expertise. Also, the management is not afraid to address any problems we may have. They ensure we know the guidelines, treat us honestly and fairly, and nothing is held back.
This key to success is not found in most agency situations. Carolina Counseling Services also emphasizes longevity and growth. You can consider contracting with Carolina Counseling Services as an “investment in yourself.”

What are Some Concerns that Counselors Typically Have, and How are they Addressed Here?

Counselors, like everyone, have personal difficulties from time to time. Often, their training kicks in when they’re able to look at their own problems, like grief, for example. You can take time to identify your immediate, personal needs until you are in a better place to serve that particular population again.

“Everything is set up to support the clinician. You are supported through the life span.”

What Makes Carolina Counseling Services a Great Place to Work and Why is it Different than Other Places?

I just love the people I work for, taking clients, and would recommend Carolina Counseling Services to anyone. This has been an investment through learning and doing, feeling safe, and not being afraid to ask questions.

We have two clinical managers who serve as directors and are also owners. They are available 24-7. At the building where my office is, we have five clinicians that support each other, and together have consultations for clarification of issues. All therapists are in private practice, yet through our work, we are introduced to new people, across different licensures, and encouraged to cross-support one another. Even now, while working in teletherapy, we are encouraged to continue those relationships. I personally feel strongly that this is very important.

How does our community benefit from Carolina Counseling Services?

Carolina Counseling Services serves a diverse population. While both military and civilian interests are considered, they are also sensitive to the needs of clients throughout the entire state of North Carolina. This company strives to provide the best mental health services anywhere. Additionally, they make every effort to support local economies and the particular interests of those communities. The company has a good reputation. There are a lot of individuals in the community who need assistance and it is satisfying to be able to provide that assistance.

How do You Anticipate the Needs of Counseling Services in the Future?

During the pandemic, teletherapy is ideal for the majority of our clients.  This has been a successful addition to our services at Carolina Counseling Services.  Counselors here have been taking hours of training to be approved to become tele-therapists.   As the pandemic subsides, some counselors and clients may want to return to a more traditional setting in which sessions are conducted.  Many will continue teletherapy or have a mix of both – it is up to each contractor what works best for them and their clients.