Coastal Center

Message: The $150 dollar upfront evaluation fee has to be paid in full. my predisposition about this place expected a negative outcome; I figured this place is just another piece of the judicial cog; you have to pay this fee in full or you will be noncompliant with the courts. consequently, they can throw you in jail for noncompliance. Meaning, if one is unable to pay $150 in full because of indigence, you can still be thrown in jail; punishing the poor for being poor. I am proud to admit I was wrong; while the court may have their personal agenda, the people working at Coastal Center are one of a kind; they are genuinely invested into guiding everyone on the right path.. The receptionist is hard-nosed and to the point; has to be in order to deal with the annoyed people like myself who feel the court is forcing them to do something they don't want to do. Skip the pleasantry, inform her what you need done so she can carry on with her busy day.. My evaluator Candace, blew my expectations into oblivion: I walked into an unassuming office building, but as I passed the threshold of her office door, It felt like I entered a fortune teller's parlor and she was going to palm read to dislodge my chakra. The relaxed ambiance is warm and inviting. the decor is an extension of herself.. What normally would have been a simple, 15-minute evaluation turned into over half an hour discourse about current events, trauma and its effects on the psyche, the tribulation of life, and everything under the sun. She is compassionate, transparent, fair, intelligent, and professional. Her insight and experience are profoundly moving.. Best $150 bucks I ever had to pay to appease the courts. My annoyance disappeared. If you are considering utilizing this center as your therapy, I recommend giving it a go; if the first person you talk with doesn't fit your expectations, remember, there are several individuals you can give a try! Talk to people about your issues, concerns, thoughts; share the burden with people willing to listen.. My experience at Coastal Center reminded of the adage: don't judge a book by its cover. I am glad this book is a good read.

Message: 4 1/2 stars for my counselor, Steve. He has been extremely helpful. 4 1/2 stars for Terry at the front desk. She is friendly, helpful and just seems happy in her role at the Coastal Center. 1 star for their answering service. Wow! She is always uber rude. Unfriendly, zero pleasantries, always rushes me off the phone, hangs up on me once I’m done giving her my message. No “thank you”, no “have a nice day”, no “goodbye”, nothing. Just click. Really, b***h?! ?.

Message: I had a situation where I was working out of town and my family was living in Coos Bay. I had some concerns about the situation and my family life. I was able to talk with one counselor who referred me to another within the office that was very helpful. My situation was quickly and easily resolved with their help. I was very pleased with their services.