Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1

What is DRG Counseling?

Accepted Answer

DRG Counseling, Inc. is a privately owned Behavioral Health Counseling Practice with primary offices in the Raleigh, NC area. We serve clients of all cultural, racial, religious, political, gender, and economic backgrounds. All of our therapists are licensed in the State of North Carolina and utilize a strengths-based approach to care.

Question 2

Is DRG Counseling LGBTQIA+ affirming?

Accepted Answer

Yes. DRG Counseling is a proud LGBTQIA+ affirming practice. We welcome and celebrate clients of all gender identities and sexual orientations. Our therapists are trained to provide culturally sensitive, affirming care in a safe and non-judgmental environment.

Question 3

Where are you located?

Accepted Answer

Our primary offices are located in the Raleigh, NC area. We also offer Telehealth appointments for clients throughout North Carolina, so you can receive care from the comfort of your own home.

Question 4

Who do you serve?

Accepted Answer

We work with children, adolescents, and adults. Our therapists specialize in a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, substance use, family issues, and more. Please visit our Services page for a full list of treatment specializations.

Question 5

How do I schedule an appointment?

Accepted Answer

You can reach us by phone at 919-977-6018, by email at admin@drgcounseling.org, or by submitting our online contact form. A member of our team will follow up with you to schedule your first appointment and answer any questions you may have.

Question 6

What are your office hours?

Accepted Answer

Our office is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Saturday appointments are available by appointment only. We are closed on Sundays. Telehealth appointments may offer additional scheduling flexibility — contact us to discuss your availability.

Question 7

What should I expect at my first appointment?

Accepted Answer

Your first session is an intake appointment where your therapist will get to know you, understand your goals, and discuss what brings you to counseling. It's a relaxed, confidential conversation — there's no pressure to share more than you're comfortable with. Together you'll begin building a plan that works for you.

Question 8

How long are therapy sessions?

Accepted Answer

Individual therapy sessions are typically 45–50 minutes. Group therapy sessions, such as our DBT Psychoeducation Group, run approximately 2 hours. Your therapist will discuss session length and frequency with you during your intake appointment.

Question 9

Can I change or cancel my appointment?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Please contact us as soon as possible if you need to reschedule or cancel. We ask that you provide at least 24 hours' notice when possible. Late cancellations or no-shows may be subject to a fee — your therapist will review the cancellation policy with you at intake.

Question 10

Do you accept insurance?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we accept most major insurance plans. Please contact our office at 919-977-6018 or admin@drgcounseling.org to verify whether your specific plan is accepted before your first appointment. We recommend confirming your mental health benefits directly with your insurance provider as well.

Question 11

What if I don't have insurance or my plan isn't accepted?

Accepted Answer

We offer self-pay options for clients who are uninsured or whose insurance is not accepted. Please contact our office to discuss current self-pay rates and any available sliding-scale options. We are committed to making quality mental health care as accessible as possible.

Question 12

Does insurance cover Telehealth sessions?

Accepted Answer

Many insurance plans now cover Telehealth services, but coverage varies by plan and provider. We strongly recommend contacting your insurance company directly to confirm your Telehealth benefits before your first virtual session. Our office can also help answer questions about billing.

Question 13

Will my insurance cover the DBT group?

Accepted Answer

Insurance coverage for group therapy varies. The DBT Psychoeducation Group is currently offered at a self-pay rate of $500 for the full program. Please contact your insurance provider to understand your group therapy benefits, and reach out to our office with any questions.

Question 14

What is Telehealth counseling?

Accepted Answer

Telehealth counseling allows you to meet with your therapist via a secure video platform from anywhere in North Carolina. Sessions are conducted through a HIPAA-compliant video link sent to you before your appointment. All you need is a device with a camera and a stable internet connection.

Question 15

Is Telehealth as effective as in-person therapy?

Accepted Answer

Research shows that Telehealth therapy is just as effective as in-person therapy for most mental health concerns. Many clients find the convenience and comfort of attending sessions from home actually enhances their experience. Your therapist will work with you to determine the best format for your needs.

Question 16

What do I need for a Telehealth session?

Accepted Answer

You'll need a smartphone, tablet, or computer with a working camera and microphone, a stable internet connection, and a private, quiet space where you feel comfortable talking. Your therapist will send you a secure link before your session — no special software download is required.

Question 17

Can I switch between in-office and Telehealth?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer both in-office and Telehealth appointments, and many clients alternate between the two depending on their schedule and preference. Just let your therapist or our office know your preference when scheduling.

Question 18

What is DBT?

Accepted Answer

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a structured, evidence-based therapy originally developed for individuals with intense emotions. It teaches four core skill sets: Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation, and Interpersonal Effectiveness. DBT has been shown to be effective for a wide range of mental health concerns.

Question 19

What is the DBT Psychoeducation Group at DRG?

Accepted Answer

Our DBT Psychoeducation Group is a structured group therapy program that teaches practical DBT skills in a supportive group setting. The current group runs Mondays from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM, September 14 through October 26, 2026, and is held virtually. It is facilitated by Raymond Pantaleo, LCMHC-A, and Luke Sasser, CMHC-Intern.

Question 20

Who is the DBT group for?

Accepted Answer

The group is open to adolescents and adults who want to build practical emotional and relational skills. It is especially helpful for those experiencing anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, relationship difficulties, or anyone who wants to develop healthier coping strategies.

Question 21

How much does the DBT group cost?

Accepted Answer

The current DBT Psychoeducation Group is offered at a self-pay rate of $500 for the full program. Please contact our office to confirm availability and to register. We recommend checking with your insurance provider about group therapy coverage as well.

Question 22

How do I join the DBT group?

Accepted Answer

Contact our office by phone at 919-977-6018 or by email at admin@drgcounseling.org to inquire about availability and registration. You can also submit our online contact form and a team member will follow up with you promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions

About DRG Counseling

Scheduling & Appointments

Insurance & Fees

Telehealth Services

DBT Psychoeducation Group

Still Have Questions?