Client Information

Welcome to Hamburg Counseling Service.  We are located in a quiet suburban setting that affords clients a peaceful, private atmosphere.  The building is handicap accessible with onsite parking. We are a non-profit organization dedicated to providing excellence in service. We were founded in 1971 in the Village of Hamburg, New York. 

Our clinicians are Licensed Clinical Social Workers and are trained and experienced in the treatment of depression, anxiety/panic/phobias, thought and mood disorders, eating disorders, grief counseling, life transition issues and relationship issues.  Our staff consists of Licensed Clinical Social Workers, a Registered Nurse and a Psychiatrist.

Your initial visit will be spent describing what brings you to counseling and what you hope to achieve by being in counseling.  An initial evaluation will last from one to three sessions.  At that time, your therapist will offer you some first impressions of what will be addressed in treatment.  You now have the option to evaluate this information and decide whether or not you feel comfortable working with your therapist.  Should you decide to continue with therapy, your counselor will usually schedule one 45-minute session weekly, bi-weekly or monthly depending upon your needs at the time of scheduling.

Professional fees may be covered all or in part by your health insurance.  We accept Medicare, Medicaid and most major health insurances.  All fees or copays are due at the time of service.  We offer a sliding scale fee for those without health insurance.  Please call our office for details.  We require a 24 hour notice to cancel an appointment.  Unless 24 hours advance notice of cancellation is given you will be charged a $30.00 no show/late cancel fee.

New York State law protects the privacy of all communications between a client and this clinic.  In most situations, we can only release information about your treatment to others if you sign a written Authorization release form that meets certain legal requirements imposed by HIPAA.

What to bring on your first visit:

The Staff at Hamburg Counseling Service look forward to helping you achieve your best functioning and happiness.  To make your visit easier, please complete the following check list and bring the necessary items with you.

Please arrive 15 minutes early for your first appointment.  This time has been reserved for you and late arrival may result in rescheduling your appointment.

If your insurance requires pre authorization, please call your insurance company.  Your insurance card will have instructions.  Your insurance company may require you to have your referral/prior authorization at your initial appointment.

Please make sure you bring the following materials on the day of your appointment:

• Your referral/Authorization
• Insurance Cards
• Copay Fee

If you are able to print up New Client Forms,  bring the following with you on the day of your first appointment:

• New Client Insurance Form
• Program Evaluation Form
• Release of Report to Primary Care Physician
• General Health Form
• HIPAA Agreement