Valley Community Services Board
Valley Community Services Board
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
General
General
What is Valley Community Services Board?
Valley Community Services Board (VCSB) is a behavioral health treatment agency that serves individuals living with behavioral health, substance use, and/or developmental disabilities. VCSB offers group, individual, and family therapy for adults, children, and families. Psychiatric staff also provide medication management treatment as needed. For more information on specific services visit our pages on behavioral health, substance use and/or developmental disabilities sections.
Is VCSB a private agency?
No, Valley CSB is not a private agency. As an agent for the governments of Augusta County, Highland County, the City of Staunton, and the City of Waynesboro; Valley CSB serves clients who have private insurance; including Medicaid, Medicare and Tricare. Valley CSB also serves individuals who are experiencing financial difficulties, are unemployed, and/or have no insurance. Valley CSB provides services on a sliding payment scale for the citizens for Staunton, Waynesboro, as well as Augusta and Highland Counties. This allows your fees to be tailored to your individual or family financial situation.
What services does VCSB offer?
VCSB provides behavioral health, substance use and/ or developmental disability services for adults, children, and families. VCSB employs a team of case managers, counselors, social workers, therapists, and psychiatrists.
Are there other Community Services Boards?
Yes, Virginia has a total of 40 Community Services Boards. To find the one in your community click here.
Do I have to go to the Community Services Board closest to me?
Every CSB has a "catchment area" outlining the locations they serve. VCSB’s catchment area is Staunton, Waynesboro, and Augusta and Highland County. You can come here for services, contact private agencies or go to another CSB. However, going to a CSB outside your catchment area means you will pay the full fee and are not eligible for financial assistance.
Is Valley CSB the same as ASAP?
No. ASAP is the Alcohol Safety Action Program. The Virginia division, or VASAP, can be contacted at 540-886-5616 or 540-943-4405.
Is VCSB the same as Social Services?
No. If you have any questions regarding Social Services (Child Protective Services, Adult Protective Services, etc.) and live in the surrounding areas, please call Shenandoah Department of Social Services at 540-245-5800.
Does VCSB help with paying rent and/or utilities?
No, but some organizations do. For more information call SACRA at 540-886-3957, the Salvation Army at 540-885-8157 (Staunton), 540-943-7591 (Waynesboro), or the Shenandoah Department of Social Services at 540-245-5800.
Does VCSB have anything to do with court ordered Community Service?
No, VCSB is not the same as "community service". Please contact the court or probation officer that ordered your community service for a list of opportunities.
What if I have a concern or want to make a complaint?
If you have any concerns we encourage you to make this known to your treatment provider. If you have done this, or do not feel comfortable doing so, please call our Client Services at 540-887-3200 and we will direct you to the appropriate personnel.
How can I get involved or volunteer?
Unfortunately we do not offer volunteer opportunities. Visit our page on Career Opportunities for the latest listings for careers. If you are interested in VCSB’s internship opportunities please call 540-887-3200 and ask for our Human Resources Department.
Starting Services
Starting Services
How do I get an appointment? (Adult)
You can walk in our main office at 85 Sanger’s Lane on Monday, Tuesday, or Thursday from 8am - 3pm and request an "intake" appointment to start services.
What do I need to bring the first time I come? (Adult)
If you have insurance, then bring your insurance card and a photo ID. If you do not have insurance, we have a sliding scale program. You would need to bring photo ID, income information (employment/check stubs, unemployment, SSI, SSDI verifications), and a list of any current medications you are taking. You will meet with an Engagement Specialist briefly and then with a Clinician to conduct the therapeutic intake. Total estimated time is an hour to an hour and a half.
How do I get an appointment for my child?
You can walk in our main office at 85 Sanger’s Lane on Monday, Tuesday, or Thursday from 8am - 3pm and request an "intake" appointment. Since the service is for your child, he or she will need to be present. In certain instances, we can schedule an intake for a child over the phone. Please contact our office at 540 887-3200 and ask for 'intake'.
What do I need to bring the first time we (child and parent) come?
If you have insurance, then your insurance card and a photo ID. If you do not have insurance, we have a sliding scale program. You would need to bring photo ID, income information (employment/check stubs, unemployment, SSI, SSDI verifications), and a list of any current medications you are taking. You will meet with an Engagement Specialist briefly and then with a Clinician to conduct the therapeutic intake. Total estimated time is an hour to an hour and a half.
How long does an Intake Appointment take?
Your clinical intake should take approximately an hour to an hour and a half. We want to get as much clinical information as possible so we can better determine the best course of treatment for you or your loved one. If you register with Client Services the same day as your intake, you should expect to be here approximately an hour and a half to two hours.
Is my Intake Clinician going to be my regular therapist?
This depends. Sometimes the intake clinician will be your on-going therapist and sometimes not. Many factors affect what therapist you will be assigned to such as insurance coverage, scheduling, individual vs. group treatment, and/or a particular therapist’s expertise. Your main treatment goals may be better suited in individual therapy, group therapy, or by a therapist that specializes in what you’re experiencing.
Treatment and Referral
Treatment and Referral
Who do you treat?
VCSB provides treatment for all individuals (adults and children) living with behavioral issues, substance use and/or developmental disabilities.
Does VCSB have Spanish speaking providers?
VCSB is able to treat Spanish speaking individuals.
Do I need a referral to come for therapy or psychiatric services?
No, you do not need a referral to engage in services. Anyone can request treatment at any time.
VASAP told me to come. What do I do?
If VASAP told you to "call Valley" you probably are in need of a Substance Abuse Evaluation. You will need to schedule this by calling our Client Services at 540-887-3200.
The Court told me I "needed an evaluation". What do I do?
If the court (Staunton, Waynesboro, Augusta, Highland Co.) ordered or told you to come to VCSB you will need to schedule an Evaluation. You can do this by calling our Client Services at 540-887-3200.
My probation officer said I needed to "come to Valley for an Evaluation". What do I do?
First, find out what type of evaluation your probation officer is requesting (mental health, substance abuse, or both). Next you need to schedule this evaluation. You can do this by calling our Client Services at 540-887-3200.
How long does therapy last?
Therapy lasts as long as needed. The amount of time you are participating in therapy depends on a variety of factors. This can and should be discussed more with your therapist once you engage in treatment.
What if I don’t like my therapist or feel my treatment isn’t working?
Psychotherapists (therapists, counselors, etc.) often work from many different theoretical backgrounds. Sometimes the background of the therapist does not match the individual being treated and sometimes people just don’t mesh well. If you have concerns regarding your therapist or treatment you are always encouraged to discuss this with your therapist. You may be re-assigned to another therapist or you may be able to work it out with whomever is treating you.
If my child is in therapy does that mean I have to come/ participate?
When treating children we require the parent or legal guardian to fully participate in treatment. This does not mean you will be physically sitting in on every session; however, the potential for growth is significantly increased when loved ones are involved.
What do I do if I or someone I know is in an Emergency?
If you or someone you know is in an emergency we encourage you to call 911 immediately or report to your local emergency room. If you feel that you or someone you know is experiencing a psychiatric and/or substance abuse emergency you can also call VCSB Emergency Services at 540-885-0866. We stress, when in doubt please call 911 or report directly to your nearest Emergency Room.
Can I get medications from VCSB?
You can. However, our psychiatrists often encourage that anyone they treat also be in counseling, psychotherapy or possibly case management. We also have an onsite pharmacy where you can get your medications filled.
Where will I get my medications?
We have an onsite pharmacy! You can also get your prescriptions filled at any local pharmacy.
Payment and Insurance
Payment and Insurance
Will there be a fee for the services I receive?
In short, yes. Some insurances have a co-pay which you will be expected to pay. We also offer a sliding payment scale. This means once you meet with the Client Services’ Engagement Specialist and are found eligible, your payments can be tailored to your own financial situation. The Engagement Specialist can also tell you about other financial assistance options.
What is VCSB’s minimum fee for service?
Our minimum fee for services is $10.00.
Is there a late fee?
No. If you do not have payment at the time of services, your payment(s) can be credited to your account for later billing. We do, however, participate in the Virginia Debt Setoff Program which allows us to take amounts due to VCSB from your taxes. This, of course, would be a last resort for collecting payment.
When is my payment due?
Your payments are due on the day of your service. Payments may be credited to your account and/or billed to you.
What is a sliding scale?
VCSB can provide services on a sliding payment scale to those individuals who are eligible. This means that once you meet with Client Services your payments can be tailored to your own financial situation. Clients with insurance are not eligible for the sliding scale unless a service you are receiving is not covered by the insurance.
Does the Sliding Payment Scale apply to all services?
No. Medical laboratory charges, urine screens, and form processing fees do not apply to the sliding payment scale benefit.
Will my insurance company pay for mental health, substance use, and/or developmental disability treatment(s)?
If you have any questions regarding your insurance coverage, we encourage you to call your insurance company and ask to speak with a representative. The number is usually on the back of your insurance card. This representative should be able to assist you in what services are covered and possibly provide a list of local providers covered under your particular company.
What insurance does VCSB accept?
VCSB accepts all major insurance providers. If you have any questions regarding insurance coverage you can call your insurance provider or call VCSB Client Services at 540-887-3200.
If I’m court ordered, does the court pay for my services?
If you are court ordered for any type of treatment the court does not pay for your services. Anyone receiving services is personally responsible for their own fees/co-payments.
Terminology
Terminology
Intake
An Intake is also known as Psychosocial Assessment or Multi-Dimensional Assessment. Your "Intake" is one of the first appointments you will have, and usually takes an hour to an hour and a half. The intake clinician, psychologist, and/or psychiatrist will be gathering information on your current situation as well as your history (mental health, substance abuse, medical history, family history etc.) It’s basically an opportunity for us to get to know you.
Psychiatric Evaluation
Similar to a psychosocial assessment, but a Psychiatric Evaluation can only be conducted by a psychiatrist (medical physician who specializes in psychiatry). The psychiatrist can also conduct medical assessments, laboratory monitoring, and prescribe medications.
"Court Ordered" Evaluation
This is when a judge feels you may benefit from treatment and has ordered you to participate in an evaluation (either mental health or substance abuse). Most court ordered evaluations in Staunton, Waynesboro, and Augusta and Highland Counties are referred to VCSB. The VCSB clinician will either recommend continued treatment or not. Evaluations take 1-2 hours.
Psychiatrist vs. Psychologist
A psychologist primarily aids the individual by conducting assessments, counseling and psychotherapy. A psychologist may hold a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) and be called "doctor", but is not a medical doctor. A psychiatrist may perform psychotherapy and, in addition, can prescribe medications. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (MD). The psychiatrists at VCSB do not conduct extensive psychotherapy. For the most part, psychotherapists conduct psychotherapy at VCSB.
Psychologist vs. Psychotherapist
A psychologist may hold a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) and be called "doctor". A psychotherapist has at least a master’s degree (MA or MS). A psychotherapist may also be a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), licensed professional counselor (LPC), or a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). Both a psychologist and a psychotherapist perform counseling and therapy. In some instances, both can also conduct certain tests and assessments (cognitive, personality, intelligence, neuro-psychological, etc.).
Therapist vs. Counselors
Often, these two titles mean the same thing. At certain agencies, both a therapist and counselor could provide mental health, substance abuse, and/or intellectual disability treatment. Depending on the agency, you may see the following titles for various therapists/counselors: Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP) Qualified Mental Retardation Professional (QMRP)
Mental health and substance abuse providers and their credentials/possible degrees
Psychiatrist – MD (Medical Doctor) Psychologist – PhD, PsyD, EdD. (Doctorate Degree) Licensed Clinical Social Worker- LCSW (Master’s Degree) Licensed Professional Counselor – LPC (Master’s Degree) Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist – LMFT (Master’s Degree) Certified Substance Abuse Counselor – CSAC (Bachelor’s Degree) Qualified Mental Health Professional- QMHP (Bachelor’s and/or Master’s Degree)
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy is another term for "counseling" or "therapy". Today, many different professions use the term "counseling"; which gets confusing. Psychotherapy is used in group, family, or individual settings to overcome certain mental health (emotional, psychiatric, etc.) and/or substance use concerns.
Outpatient
This is a term used when someone is receiving treatment from an agency in the community. Examples of outpatient treatment include a dentist office, physician’s office, or your counselor/ therapist’s office.
Inpatient
This is a term used when someone goes to a facility to receive treatment and actually stays at that facility for a given period of time. Sometimes people will receive this intensive form of treatment for a few days, weeks, or longer. The duration of the stay depends on the actual facility and that person’s needs at that given time. For example, any time you are admitted to a hospital, this is considered "inpatient" treatment.
Social Detox
A social detox is a facility that provides a safe environment for individuals to begin their road to recovery and start the process of "getting clean". Social Detox facilities allow certain medications yet are not medical facilities.
Medical Detox:
A medical detox is a facility that provides a safe environment for individuals to begin their road to recovery from substance use. Medical detox is different from social detox in that medical treatment can be provided there.
Employment Opportunities
Employment Opportunities
What jobs are currently available at VCSB?
You can find a list of our current job openings by going to our Career Section Page.
I'm interested in several of your positions, do I need to submit an application for all of the positions?
No, just make sure you list all the positions you are interested in on your application.
I applied for a position with your agency 6 months ago. Now I am interested in another position you have, is my application still active?
Generally after a position closes or is filled applications are stored off site. Therefore there is no access to applications older than 6 months. Please resubmit a new application for the new position you are interested in.
Does VCSB have tuition reimbursement or assistance?
We do offer a Tuition Reimbursement program. Fulltime employees can apply for this after completing one year of employment at Valley CSB.
I currently work for the State, will my VRS transfer?
Yes. Once you are hired, please inform HR of this and they can assist you.
Is VCSB staff considered State employees?
No. Our holiday schedule is similar and we participate with the Virginia Retirement System, but we are not State employees.
Will you accept a Virginia State Employment application?
No. Please go to the Career Section for more information about applications.
Where do I get an application?
You can get an application in person at our main office; 85 Sangers Lane, Staunton. You can also go to our Careers Page here.
Can I submit just my resume?
No, you must also submit a complete VCSB application. However, attaching a resume or curriculum vita is also helpful.