Greater Buffalo Counseling Centers, Inc., (GBCC) is a non-profit agency that offers compassionate, supportive, low- (or no-) cost counseling to the Western New York community. Volunteer peer counselors create a safe, welcoming environment to those who find themselves suffering from feelings of loss, anxiety, anger, and/or hopelessness. In doing so, the organization provides real-life experience to area college students and compassionate individuals from all walks of life who want to assist others through life's difficulties. Founded in the early 1960s, GBCC has helped countless community member around Western New York who simply would have had no where else to turn. We invite you to learn more about our agency and the critical services it provides.
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Services Offered
Counseling Services Since the early 1960's, GBCC has helped individuals in their time of need. Whether adjusting to the death of a loved one, dealing with unemployment, or just struggling with stressful times, the agency's peer counselors have always been there providing compassionate client centered support.
Fees and Payment
There are no co-pays and no set fees. Individuals are asked to contribute what they can, if they can.
This is a non-profit organization.
Services Offered To: Adults Couples Teens
Payment: Sliding Scale Pro-bono
If You Call, Please Let Us Know How it Went:
Were You Able to Make an Appointment?
One quick last question. Who was seeking counseling today?
Do you know the reason they are not accepting clients?
Qualifying for assistance from New York's program usually depends on the severity of your condition and financial circumstance. Read our full guide to New York's program.
A community counseling agency is a group therapy practice that offers affordable mental health services. Most are independent non-profit agencies, state agencies, or publicly-funded agencies. A few may restrict who is eligible for services, so it is a good idea to check when you call.
Community counseling agencies are generally more affordable than other therapy providers, but how much more affordable they are will depend on whether you qualify for a discount or sliding scale fee (or if they accept your insurance). Many, but not all, have a policy that they won't turn away anyone due to inability to pay. You should ask about their fees when you first call.
Expect to talk to kind people who want to help you find the care you need. Most community agencies strive to connect you with a live person within 24 hours, if not immediately. If you're asked to hold or leave a message, don't give up; just leave a message and wait. You should hear back pretty quickly.
Most agencies try to set up an initial assessment appointment within a week (some do within 24 hours), though the waitlist to start therapy is usually longer—about a few weeks on average. If you're not eligible or if the agency is not right for you, it's usually still worth it to call or drop in, because staff are knowledgeable about local options and can often refer you to one.