Everything You Want to Know Before Reaching Out
Frequently Asked Questions
It's completely normal to have a lot of questions before reaching out to a therapist for the first time — or even the fifth time. Therapy is personal, and knowing what to expect makes the first step a lot easier to take. The questions below cover everything from how to get started to how sessions actually work, what things cost, and what to do if you're not sure therapy is right for you.
If you don't find what you're looking for here, don't hesitate to reach out directly. Melanie is happy to answer any questions you have before you book. Send a message or call (254) 390-9243 — she typically responds within 1–2 business days.
No Question Is Too Small
Feel Informed Before You Begin
Getting Started & Working With Melanie
Yes — Melanie is currently accepting new clients for online therapy across Texas. All session requests are personally reviewed to ensure a good fit and appropriate scheduling. If you're unsure whether Bloom Within Counseling is right for you, reaching out is the best first step.
You can request a session directly through this website by clicking the "Request a Session" button, or by calling (254) 390-9243 to speak with Melanie by phone. Once she receives your request, she'll reach out to discuss available times and answer any initial questions.
Melanie typically responds to session requests within 1–2 business days. If you haven't heard back within that window, feel free to follow up by phone.
The first session is a conversation, not an evaluation. You and Melanie will talk about what's brought you to therapy, what your goals are, and what you're hoping to feel or experience differently. You're welcome to share at your own pace — there's no pressure to have everything figured out, and nothing is off the table. The goal of the first session is simply to begin building a relationship where the real work can happen.
Melanie maintains her own independent private practice, Bloom Within Counseling, PLLC. She also works in collaboration with another practice. Session requests submitted through this website and the scheduling link are for her independent practice. Melanie is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, supervised by April West, LPC-S.
Standard sessions are 45-50 minutes. EMDR sessions may occasionally run slightly longer depending on where you are in the processing protocol — Melanie will let you know in advance if that's likely. Sessions are held weekly for most clients, though frequency can be adjusted as you progress.
Melanie works with individuals ages 13 and up, including teens and adults. For adolescent clients, she creates a safe, supportive space to work through emotions, build coping skills, and strengthen communication — collaborating with parents when it's helpful and appropriate, while always prioritizing the teen's trust and privacy.
Yes — Melanie offers limited evening availability to accommodate school and work schedules. Availability changes over time, so please reach out to see what times are currently open when you request a session.
Melanie checks in regularly on how the work feels and whether you're making progress toward your goals. If something isn't clicking — whether it's the approach, the pacing, or the fit — she'd rather know and adjust than have you quietly disengage. Good therapy is collaborative, and your feedback always matters. If at any point you decide Bloom Within isn't the right fit, Melanie will help connect you with other providers.
No. As a private pay practice, Bloom Within Counseling does not require a referral from a doctor or a formal diagnosis to begin therapy. If you're struggling and ready to do something about it, that's enough. You're welcome to reach out at any point — no clinical paperwork required to get started.
Services, Fees & Telehealth
All sessions are held via a secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform. Before your appointment, you'll receive a private link to join. All you need is a phone, tablet, or computer with a camera and microphone, a reliable internet connection, and a quiet, private space. No app downloads are required. Virtual therapy is just as effective as in-person care — and for many clients, the comfort and privacy of their own space makes it easier to open up.
That's more common than you'd think, and it's a completely fine place to start. The first session is intentionally low-key — a chance to talk, ask questions, and get a feel for how therapy works before diving into anything heavy. Melanie is experienced at working with first-time therapy clients and will guide you through the process at a pace that feels comfortable.
<p>Bloom Within Counseling is a private pay practice and does not accept insurance. Many clients find that at $100 per individual session, private pay is straightforward and often comparable to — or less than — typical out-of-pocket costs after insurance. If cost is a concern, a limited number of reduced-fee spots are available.
Individual sessions are $100. Couple sessions are $125. Family sessions are $150. A nominal credit card processing fee is included in the total. All fees are due at the time of service. A limited number of reduced-fee spots are available for clients experiencing financial hardship — reach out to ask about availability.
Melanie's cancellation policy will be reviewed during intake. In general, she asks for reasonable advance notice if you need to reschedule. Please reach out directly if you have specific questions about the cancellation policy before booking.
Bloom Within Counseling offers telehealth therapy for anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, teen mental health, life transitions and stress, and faith-based counseling. EMDR therapy is a core specialty. Visit the Services page for a full overview and individual pages for each area of focus.
Yes. EMDR has been effectively adapted for telehealth delivery and Melanie is trained in virtual EMDR protocols. Research supports its efficacy in online formats, and many clients find that processing from a familiar, comfortable environment actually enhances the work.
It can be — if that's what you want. Melanie offers space for clients who want to incorporate their faith, values, or spiritual beliefs into therapy. That might look like exploring meaning through a spiritual lens, processing grief within a faith context, or simply bringing your whole self — beliefs included — into the room. Clients who don't identify with any faith tradition are equally welcome. Therapy is always centered on your values, your goals, and your comfort.
Yes — confidentiality is a foundational part of the therapeutic relationship. What you share in sessions is private and protected by law. There are a small number of legally required exceptions — including situations where there is risk of harm to yourself or others, or when records are subpoenaed by a court — which Melanie will review with you during your first session. Outside of those exceptions, your sessions and records remain between you and Melanie.
Melanie is based in Mexia, Texas, but serves clients statewide through telehealth. Primary service counties include Limestone, Freestone, Leon, Falls, Hill, and Navarro — but she welcomes clients from anywhere in Texas. See the full Service Areas page for details.
Reviews and Testimonials
Patients Love Bloom Within
While every patient is different and comes with different needs, Bloom Within works to create the perfect plan for you and your needs.
Mon - Thurs: 9AM - 5PM
Fri: 9 AM - 3 PM
Sat & Sun: Closed
Based in Mexia,
Serving all of Texas
(254) 390-9243
melanieburns@bloom-within-counseling.com
Still Have Questions?
Just Ask — There's No Obligation
If something isn't covered above, or you'd just like to talk through whether therapy is right for you before committing to anything, Melanie is happy to help. Reaching out doesn't lock you into anything — it's just a conversation.
