If cost is an issue, paying for therapy can be just one more problem that can add to a list of troubles. Family Service Agency of the Central Coast (FSA-CC) makes a real difference for the community of Santa Cruz County by providing affordable counseling. Since 1957, they have provided mental health care to those who might not otherwise be able to afford counseling. They have a sliding scale of fees for people without insurance. They also provide counseling for people with Medi-Cal or Medicare.
FSA-CC has now made it even easier for adults, families and children to seek help. They have opened a new counseling office in Soquel, halfway between their two current locations in downtown Santa Cruz and Watsonville. Earlier this month, FSA-CC held an open house for members of the community to tour their new mid-county offices situated in a quiet neighborhood on Park Avenue, right off Highway One.
“Our office in Soquel provides access to counseling for people who don’t like to travel downtown because of the parking situation and traffic problems on Highway One,” says Rita Flores, FSA-CC’s Assistant Agency Director.
At the open house event, attendees previewed the small private therapy rooms that have been completely renovated with new flooring, paint, modern furniture and upgraded amenities. According to Flores, who has worked with FSA-CC for over 27 years, this facility closely resembles a private therapy office evoking a calm, professional and welcoming atmosphere.
In addition to the convenience of three locations, FSA-CC offers flexible hours to accommodate working individuals and families. Clients have the added benefit of choosing a highly experienced therapist. Clients can also access support from the agency’s continuum of free programs, including Senior Outreach peer support for older adults, the Suicide Prevention program’s crisis line, and a host of other support services. Children with Medi-Cal are served through FSA-CC’s contract with the Santa Cruz County Mental Health Services division. Located in the unit right next door, the WomenCARE program provides support for women diagnosed with cancer.
“We have also created a new state-of-the-art children’s room,” says Flores, “with a sand tray, games and toys which help children build relationships of trust with their therapist.”
Now this community mental health agency serves all of Santa Cruz County. For mid-county residents, looking for counseling services, this is the latest offering by FSA-CC to their growing menu of mental health support.
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Family Service Agency of the Central Coast provides all Santa Cruz County residents with a host of mental health services and community support programs. Their new mid-county office is located at 2901 Park Avenue, Suite A3 in Soquel. WomenCARE’s cancer support program for women is located next door in Suite A1. For more information about FSA-CC services and their new Soquel location, please visit fsa-cc.org, or call (831) 423-9444.