Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be Christian to participate?

No, you do not need to be Christian to receive care at Firm Foundation Family Services. We welcome individuals from all walks of life. Our Biblical worldview informs our understanding of human nature, human needs, and how to address distressing symptoms, but we understand that clients are entitled to their own beliefs and values. We are committed to providing support with compassion, curiosity, and respect for each client’s individual experience.

Do you accept insurance?

No, Firm Foundation Family Services is an insurance-free practice. We’ve chosen not to work with insurance providers so we can prioritize your privacy, offer truly personalized care, and support your mental health without external limitations.

If you have questions about affordability or would like help exploring flexible payment options, we’re happy to work with you to find a solution that makes therapy more accessible.

Do you provide in-person or virtual sessions?

Firm Foundation Family Services offers both in-person and virtual counseling sessions to accommodate different needs and circumstances. Our clinicians work with clients to determine the format that best fits their situation and clinical needs.

Virtual counseling is available to eligible clients in Virginia and Maryland. Please contact us to learn more about available options and determine which format is appropriate for you.

What should I expect after submitting a contact form?

Once we receive your message we will reach out within 1-2 business days to discuss your needs and next steps. We’ll answer any questions you have and help you schedule your first appointment if you’re ready.

What types of therapy do you offer?

Firm Foundation Family Services offers Christian counseling for children, adolescents, couples, and families seeking to strengthen relationships, navigate challenges, and pursue emotional and relational health.

Our services include individual therapy, marriage counseling, family therapy, and pre-marital counseling. Our approach integrates Biblical principles with research-informed therapeutic methods, which may include Gottman Couples Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, Art Therapy, Structural Family Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy.

Each clinician brings distinct training and areas of focus to the work. We tailor our approach to each client's circumstances, goals, and values, offering care grounded in clinical expertise and Christ-centered hope. Visit our clinician profiles to learn more about their specialties and approaches.

What is your cancellation and rescheduling policy?

To respect everyone’s time and availability, we kindly ask that you provide at least 48 hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment. This allows us time to offer that appointment slot to another client in need.

Cancellations or reschedules with less than 48 hours’ notice may be subject to a cancellation fee. Cancellations within 24 hours will be charged the full cost of your missed session. If you have any questions or concerns about scheduling or our cancellation policy please don’t hesitate to reach out — we’re here to work with you.

Are your therapists licensed and credentialed?

Yes. Our clinicians are licensed and in good standing with the appropriate licensing boards for the states in which they practice, including the Virginia Board of Counseling. Our practice is committed to maintaining exceptional professional and ethical standards, with therapy informed by evidence-based approaches, ongoing education, and faith-centered care.

What’s the difference between parent coaching and therapy?

At Firm Foundation Family Services, we offer both parent coaching and therapy—each designed to support different needs.

Parent coaching is practical and future-focused. It is ideal for parents facing specific challenges like tantrums, discipline difficulties, bedtime battles, or screen time struggles. We’ll work together to create actionable strategies that align with your values and your child’s needs. Coaching leads to greater clarity, confidence, and practical solutions.

Therapy takes a deeper, more reflective approach. It’s focused on exploring emotional patterns, past experiences, and relationship dynamics that may be impacting your current challenges. Therapy is well-suited for those looking to heal, process, and grow—whether individually, as a couple, or as a family.

Not sure which is right for you? That’s completely normal. We’ll help you decide what kind of support best fits your goals during your consultation.

Will my therapist be neutral or unbiased?

That’s a common (and fair) question, and one we think deserves an honest answer. At Firm Foundation Family Services, we don’t pretend to be blank slates. We’re not passive observers, nor do we endorse every choice as equally beneficial.

Instead, we bring values, compassion, and conviction into the room—with the humility to let you decide what aligns with your beliefs, goals, and priorities. We believe healing happens when honesty and care go hand in hand.

What states does Firm Foundation Family Services serve?

Firm Foundation Family Services offers in-person counseling in Virginia and virtual counseling for eligible clients in Virginia and Maryland. Services are provided by clinicians licensed to practice in the state where the client is located.

Carrington Cunnington also offers parent coaching to families worldwide. Contact us to learn more about our services and determine which options are available for your needs and location.

Can I work with a Firm Foundation Family Services therapist if I live in Maryland?

Yes. Chia-Hua Lu is licensed in both Virginia and Maryland and offers virtual counseling services to Maryland residents. Through secure telehealth sessions, clients can receive support for concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, relationship challenges, provided virtual counseling is appropriate for their needs.

If you live in Maryland and are interested in working with Chia-Hua, contact us to discuss your needs and learn more about available appointments.

Do you offer Christian counseling for Maryland residents?

Yes. Maryland residents can work with Chia-Hua Lu through virtual counseling. For clients who wish to incorporate their Christian faith into counseling, Chia-Hua can integrate Biblical principles and a Christian worldview into the therapeutic process while providing compassionate, professional mental health care.

Contact us to learn more about Chia-Hua's approach and determine whether her services are a good fit for your needs.

What languages are counseling session available in?

Firm Foundation Family Services offers counseling in English, Spanish, and Mandarin Chinese. All clinicians provide services in English. Isabel Fermin also offers counseling in Spanish, and Chia-Hua Lu offers counseling in Mandarin Chinese.

Contact us to learn more about our clinicians and find a provider who can support you in your preferred language.

Do you offer evening or weekend appointments?

Yes. Firm Foundation Family Services offers evening and weekend appointments to help accommodate work, school, and family commitments. Availability varies by clinician, so please contact us to discuss scheduling options that may work for you.