ON-SITE LABORATORY
ON-SITE LABORATORY
PROVIDING CARE BEYOND TRADITIONAL THERAPY
Elliott Counseling Group is excited to announce the addition of full on-site labs at each of our locations. This enhancement allows us to extend our services beyond traditional therapy, offering comprehensive wellness care to our clients. Our expanded services include gender-affirming care, sexual health and wellness care, and gynecological services with a focus on trauma-informed care. By integrating these wellness services, we are committed to addressing the diverse needs of our clients and providing holistic support for their overall well-being.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF GETTING LABS DONE?
One of the biggest benefits of getting labs done is their ability to rule out the organic causes of underlying issues that can be caused by other physical conditions. When you come see one of our Nurse Practitioners, we see you not just as a list of symptoms, but explore a whole body approach to ensure patient centered care.
Specific medications such as Testosterone and Estradiol require certain levels of each hormone to be present in the body to ensure that you are getting the positive benefits of the hormone that you wish to receive. For these medications, labs also allow our Nurse Practitioners to ensure patient safety when adjusting and stabilizing these medications or hormones in your body.
LAB PREPARATIONS
To prepare for basic lab tests, follow these tips for accurate results and a smooth experience. If instructed to fast, avoid eating or drinking anything except water for 8-12 hours before the test. Stay hydrated by drinking water, and consult your doctor about taking regular medications. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and high-fat foods 24 hours before the test. Wear comfortable clothing with easily rolled-up sleeves, and bring necessary documents like a photo ID, insurance card, and lab order forms. Arrive early to complete paperwork and inform the technician of any health conditions that might affect the blood draw.
LABS WE OFFER
CBC – Complete Blood Count – This looks at your red and white blood cells, as well as your hemoglobin. It will detect and rule out a variety of blood disorders that could be causing some of your symptoms.
CMP – Complete Metabolic Panel – This looks at the chemical balance and metabolism in your body. Essentially, it tells us if your bodily functions are in line with the standard range to rule out other causes of your symptoms.
Ferritin – Ferritin checks for Anemia.
Vitamin D – Vitamin D can play an important role in FINISH
TSH – This is a measure of the thyroid stimulating hormone. It checks to see if your thyroid is functioning per standard.
Testosterone and Estradiol – See more information on our gender affirming care HERE!
STI Testing – This includes all STIs and HIV. See more information on our sexual health and wellness program HERE!
Can’t find what you’re looking for? Ask your Nurse Practitioner about lab tests they can run outside of these basic ones. There’s a strong chance we can do it!
WHEN AND WHY IS THIS NECESSARY?
Labs help us ensure that your body is not being negatively impacted by medication.
Labs help us to exercise our whole body approach to health. We are not just treating your symptoms, but ruling out other causes for concern.
GAHT Affirming Care – We want to ensure your body is at an appropriate level to help you reach your goals.
Monitoring physical health symptoms for mental health disorders such as eating related disorders or addiction.
We want to make it as easy as possible for you to access affordable lab work. We can even take orders from external providers!
Labs help us to provide preventative screening care to keep you healthy long term.
WILL IT COST ME A FORTUNE?
We take all private insurance…
We bill your insurance for the draw itself, and the processing company bills your insurance for any completed labs.
If you’re on Medicaid…
Medicaid can be used for lab work, but we are NOT in network with Medicaid as providers, meaning that you cannot use Medicaid for your appointments or medication.
I STILL HAVE SOME CONCERNS…
We know labs can be scary, especially if you have a fear of needles, blood, or medical offices. We attempt to ensure that each office you visit will be more “casual” than your standard medical facility to provide a higher sense of comfort. All of our staff are trained to make this the best experience possible for you. If you are still fearful, talk to your NP about bringing a support person with you to your appointment.
Cost can be another factor in the decision to get labs done. Since we do our labs in house, there is no room for secret hidden charges or fees. Your lab cost will be quoted prior to the lab work if you are paying yourself or will be covered by your insurance benefits as listed in your plan.
Medical conditions can be frightening, causing some people to avoid getting lab work done because it is “better to not know”. We practice that there is no problem that cannot be solved through support, regardless of what the lab work may say. Should something come up that is outside of the scope of our practice, we will ensure that any referrals needed will be completed to ensure the continuity of care.
PHOTOS FROM THE LAB
