Family and Childrens Service of Ithaca

“Front desk staff are charming, I will give them that. However the 3 clinicians I have “worked with” both directly and indirectly were not helpful or effective. Supervisor also was condescending and said things that were really inappropriate. It took a bit to realize that it was all “lip service” with no real results. When I asked for records to review the documentation - the notes and treatment plan was a joke and was even months out of compliance. Truly laughable. When I attempted to address concerns, they double down on their practices. They don’t take accountability, and then say whatever to placate and smooth over concerns and then nothing ultimately changes. Last provider was regularly late, and even ending sessions with my child 10 minutes early. Always bag ready to go, yawning, and halfway out the door. A lack of actually caring. Business is business and they do the *least to advocate for clients. Overall unpleasant experience that 100% left me with less faith in the mental health services in the Ithaca community. Back in the day this establishment was well respected, but my recent experience over the last three years has painted a very different picture.”

“After my Mom passed in Philadelphia where I’ve lived most of my life, I moved to Ithaca. I had the pleasure of meeting Ms. Amanda Walts,LCSW at Family & Children Services of Ithaca. From my very first session, I knew I had made the best connection & she was compassionate, professional & welcoming allowing me to feel very comfortable in processing my issues and feelings. She is, hands down, the BEST therapist I’ve ever worked with. I always feel comfortable to share honestly what I’m going through. Amanda is extremely supportive and dedicated to her job. One of the hardest things I’ve ever experienced was finding my Mom passed and without Amanda’s help & guidance, I’d be hospitalized due to the trauma of it all. I can’t thank Family & Children’s Service of Ithaca enough for matching me with such a wonderful therapist. Additionally, the front desk staff are always friendly and helpful calling to remind me of my appointments. My RN and Psychiatrist are also thorough and professional with their approaches. Thank you to every one of you for helping me change into a healthy person! I feel very lucky and grateful!”

“Not impressed. Only recommend as a last resort. They used to take our insurance but have been informed that now only certain therapists within are preferred providers, greatly limiting who you can see. It’s slim pickings. Hence the long wait list. Had special circumstances and was told by business office they would work with me to lower copayments but there was never any follow up on that. Met with a therapist for a few months but not impressed nor did they focus on therapy goals. Asked to see thx plan/goals, and they couldn’t bring them up. Blamed it on computer. Called to pay a bill but told their billing equipment was down. Therapists are underpaid here. Increase salaries and would get higher quality providers that can make a decent living and not need another job.”

“I became a patient after my husband passed after a tough fight with cancer. My counselor has been amazing and although my journey has been difficult and slower than i anticipated, it has been a positive and healing one. I would definitely recommend Family & Childrens for anyone going through life, no matter where there journey has taken them.”