Counseling

Irving Family Advocacy Center offers free counseling to those who live, work, or attend school in Irving.

Safe and private

For ages 3 and up

Always free

Grief, depression, and other problems can make you feel stuck

It can be hard to deal with the things that happen in life. From being a victim of a crime to the falling apart of a relationship, or even feeling sad for reasons you can’t describe, it’s common to feel stuck.
Every person, family, and situation is unique. But no matter what you’re facing, we’re here to help.

What we help with

We’ve listed below some of the reasons people visit us, but this list isn’t comprehensive. If you are struggling and don’t know how to overcome your problem, we can help!

Help after a crime

When you're a victim of a crime, such as abuse, rape, or domestic violence, you need a safe place to understand what happened and how you can begin to heal. Our trauma-informed team of counselors can help.

Anxiety & depression

More than just having a bad day, it's feeling sad, nervous, or scared for many days. When you don't want to do things you once enjoyed, are easily frustrated, are sleeping too much or too little, we can help.

Feelings of anger

Anger is a powerful emotion that is necessary, but can easily get out of control, hurting those you love most. Learn how to express anger healthily, staying in control of your emotions.

Feeling isolated or alone

A healthy and happy life needs other people. Relationships with people we care about and who care about us are so important. Unfortunately, people, today feel more rejected, alienated, and inadequate than ever. We can help give you the tools to rebuild your community.

Self-harming behaviors

Self-harm is when someone intentionally hurts themself, most often by cutting their skin. It's most often a sign of intense anxiety or distress. We can help you learn healthy ways to process your emotions.

Suicidal thoughts

Thoughts about ending your life may be temporary, or they may stay a long time. But no matter the cause, there are people here who care about and can help you. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: 988

Problems at school

Sudden changes in behavior, struggles to play with friends, or difficulties with learning may be your child's way of showing that something is wrong. We can work with you to help identify and heal the root cause of school problems.

Marriage or relationship problems

Family, spouses, or loved ones are the root of our lives. When something goes wrong, it can hurt us and our loved ones deeply. We work with individuals and families to help pave a path for healing and reconciliation.

What does a typical counseling appointment look like?

If you’ve never been to a counselor or therapy, your first time can be intimidating. We understand!
Let’s show you what a typical appointment looks like so you can feel comfortable with what to expect.

1 // Get to our building

You'll drive or take the bus to Irving Family Advocacy Center, conveniently located right here in Irving, Texas. It's a good idea to get here about 15 minutes before your appointment. (Get directions from Google >)

2 // Let us know you're here

Walk in the front doors (two big wood doors with glass windows on each side) and someone will be sitting behind a glass desk. Tell them your name and your appointment time. Grab a drink and snack while you wait in our lobby.

3 // Your counselor will meet you

Your counselor will meet you in the lobby. Since you don't know them yet, listen for someone who knows your name! Your counselor will be with you the entire time, taking you from the lobby to your meeting room, and then back.

4 // You'll meet in one of our rooms

Your safety is always our top priority. It's why we have quiet, safe, and private rooms with comfortable couches and chairs for you and your family. You'll go into the room with your counselor for 30 to 90 minutes, depending on how long your appointment is, and then they'll help you get back to the lobby when you're done.

5 // Start your journey of hope

Leave feeling more whole than when you came, supported by people who genuinely care about you and your family.

"Two years ago I couldn't get out of bed for days at a time. Now I'm able to be who I need to be for my son. I'm better now than I have ever been and that is a good feeling."

Counseling services

After you submit your application, we’ll work together to pick which services you need, helping you make progress one step at a time.

Frequently asked questions

The American Counseling Association defines counseling as “a professional relationship that empowers diverse individuals, families, and groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals.”

Due to the high appointment volume that we see, we cannot guarantee that someone will be available to meet with you immediately if you walk in. The best way to get in quickly is to call and speak to a staff member about your needs and we can set up a time to help serve you and your family. 

We don’t want you to wait to get the help that you need. Please feel free to call and schedule an appointment so we are ready for you when you come into the Center. 

Our services are completely free of charge. 

Staff is available during regular business hours to discuss resources and options. For counseling services, individuals will need to complete an application and are usually contacted within a week to discuss the services.

Adults and children who live, work, go to school or have been a victim of a crime in Irving may receive services.

Yes! We are proud to work in one of the most diverse cities in the country and we seek to provide a respectful and supportive environment for all clients. 

Most of our counselors are in graduate school or have graduated with a Master’s degree and are working on accruing hours towards state licensure. We also have Licensed Professional Counselors, (LPCs), and Licensed Professional Counselors Supervisors, as well as Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs).

Yes. We ask that a parent or guardian remain on-site during their child’s counseling sessions.

Please complete our application for services. Our application can be found here on our website or in the lobby of the IFAC during business hours.

A different approach

If you’re a victim of violent crime, domestic violence, or child abuse, you need support and understanding from others. Learn more about how we put your needs first. 

What to expect

Nervous? Unsure if Irving Family Advocacy Center is right for you? Learn more about where to go, what to expect, how to get here, and where to park.

Community partners

There are so many people cheering you on, excited that you’re taking your next step. When we say we’re here to help, we mean it. Meet our community partners.

Ready? Get the hope you need to become whole

Submit your application to let us know you need help.

Get connected to the services and support you need.

Make progress, one step at a time.