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Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to common questions about our court-ordered programs,substance<br /> use evaluations, and the support we offer during your recovery journey

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Yes, we will notify your probation officer once your enrollment is complete. (If you enroll after 4:00 PM or on the weekend, the office will review your paperwork and send the Zoom link on the next business day.)

If your probation is in Harris County, fast-tracking SOP or IOP is not allowed. Harris County requires a minimum of 90 days (12 weeks) of treatment for SOP and 45 days (6 weeks) for IOP. If the DA or judge discovers you completed a fast-track program, they may nullify your Certificate of Completion and require you to retake the program. DO NOT RISK IT!

You may attend additional group sessions for extra support, but this will not expedite your program unless your county allows fast-tracking (which incurs an additional fee). If you choose to fast-track and your county does not accept it, you will not be eligible for a refund.

We offer payment plans to make court-ordered treatment more affordable. After paying your deposit and enrolling, you will receive an invoice and payment plan agreement with due dates. If you need to modify your payment plan, contact our office or submit a written request. We are willing to adjust payment arrangements if needed.

All enrollment transactions are completed electronically. However, if you need assistance completing forms, you may visit our office at 6601 Cypresswood Suite 101, Spring, Texas 77379 between 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday for support. All payments are processed electronically. Cash payments are not encouraged; however, they may be accepted at the office as a last resort.

Our SOP and IOP programs offer sliding-scale fees based on income and financial need, making treatment more affordable. To apply, you must complete a short application, which will be reviewed for approval.

Yes, we accept all Commercial Insurance policies for SOP and IOP programs. You are responsible for any copays and deductible requirements. PLEASE NOTE: We do not currently accept Medicaid or Medicare. If you are a Medicaid or Medicare recipient, we encourage you to apply for sliding scale fee treatment. We can also help you find a program that accepts Medicaid—text 281-475-1356 for assistance.

Once you have completed all required sessions and your discharge session, your Certificate of Completion will be issued the next business day.

Yes, all of our programs are approved by Texas courts.

Refund eligibility depends on your case and program terms. Please review our refund policy in your intake packet or contact our office for details. Refunds are not granted for attendance violations. However, if approved by the program administrator, you may re-enroll in a future class at no additional cost. Violation of program rules will result in removal from the program and forfeiture of your registration fee.

  • IOP Missed Sessions Policy:
    • Missed sessions must be made up at the end of the 6-week program.
    • No make-up sessions are available during your scheduled six-week program.
    • More than three consecutive unexcused absences will result in discharge from the program.
    • If discharged due to attendance violations, you must re-enroll and restart from Session 1.
  • SOP Missed Sessions Policy:
    • You may make up to three missed sessions within the same week.
    • Additional absences will extend your completion date, as they must be made up at the program’s conclusion.
    • More than three consecutive unexcused absences will result in discharge from the program.
    • If discharged due to attendance violations, you must re-enroll and restart from Session 1.


No. You must attend group from a home or office setting.
Joining from a public place or while driving is strictly prohibited. If you are not in an appropriate setting, you will be asked to leave and marked absent.

No, not at this time. For state-funded resources, text 281-475-1356 for assistance.

The Supportive Outpatient Program (SOP) is a 90-day, court-approved online group program designed to help individuals meet probation or court requirements while developing relapse prevention, coping, and accountability skills.

Yes — the SOP and IOP Program has flexible enrollment with new classes starting each week.

If you are unable to make a payment, you must contact our office at 844-394-2225 option 2 before your payment due date. Failure to stay current on your payment plan may result in a hold on services, delayed progress reports, or delayed certificate release. Clients must remain compliant with both attendance and payment requirements. We have a dedicated client success team dedicated to help you stay on track. Communication is key!

A minimum of 12 weeks, though treatment may be extended depending on progress, attendance, or other requirements. 

Credit/Debit card
Zelle to 346-630-4555
Cash App at $abetterjourney
For all Zelle and Cash App payment, please include your name in the payment details for proper credit. 

Dallas County requires clients to complete an individual counseling session or a family session every two (2) weeks while enrolled in IOP treatment. Per Dallas County requirements, you must sign an attendance log after each group session. This documentation is mandatory and verifies your participation for reporting purposes. 

Dallas County has additional requirements that increase the length and structure of the program compared to other counties.
Dallas programming:

  • Runs for a longer duration so there are more sessions
  • Requires mandatory individual or family counseling sessions
  • Requires signed attendance logs after each group
  • Includes structured homework assignments
  • Requires enhanced documentation and reporting standards
Because of these added clinical and compliance requirements, Dallas programs involve more direct service hours and administrative oversight, which is reflected in the program cost.

Dallas County are required to complete an individual counseling session or a family session once per month while enrolled in SOP treatment. Per Dallas County requirements, you must sign an attendance log after each group session. This documentation is mandatory and verifies your participation for reporting purposes. 

1️⃣ Complete the online enrollment
2️⃣ Submit payment → once payment is received the intake booking form will be emailed to you so you can schedule your intake assessment.
⚠️ Note: You cannot begin group sessions until your intake assessment is completed.
3️⃣ Complete intake assessment → Zoom link provided during intake.
4️⃣ We’ll notify your probation officer after intake is finalized.

  • VIP is a one-time class that last 2-2.5-hour session
  • VIP consists of Real-life stories from families affected by impaired driving
  • VIP focused on empathy, accountability, and responsibility

We do not price-match other agencies. Each provider structures their services differently, and lower prices may reflect differences in staffing, compliance oversight, documentation standards, or program structure.

However, we do offer payment plans and will work with clients when possible to make services manageable. Our focus is on providing high-quality, court-compliant services that protect your time, money, and legal standing. If you have financial concerns, we do offer income based treatment.

We strive to be affordable. Our pricing reflects the quality, compliance, and level of care we provide. A Better Journey offers:

  • Licensed and experienced counselors
  • Court-approved and contract-compliant programming
  • Detailed progress reporting to probation and courts
  • Structured curriculum aligned with state and county requirements
  • Consistent documentation to protect clients legally
  • Bilingual services (English & Spanish)
  • Administrative support to ensure certificates and reports are submitted properly
We prioritize clinical integrity, accurate documentation, and compliance with Texas state standards. Our goal is not just to help you complete a requirement, but to ensure it is done correctly, ethically, and without issues that could delay your case.

There are no hidden fees as long as you successfully follow program requirements.

However, if a client relapses, additional services, sessions, or extended treatment may be required based on clinical and court standards. Any additional costs related to relapse or non-compliance would be discussed before moving forward.

No. Treatment length is determined by court or probation requirements and state minimum standards. We are required to follow those guidelines and cannot reduce the number of weeks based on prior treatment completed at another agency.

If you have completed treatment elsewhere, you may provide documentation for review; however, the required duration of treatment ordered by the court must still be satisfied.

Active participation is required. Treatment is interactive and engagement is part of successful completion. Simply logging in without participating does not meet program requirements.

Because we are a court-approved provider, we must follow state regulations, county contracts, and ethical clinical standards. Our structure protects you by ensuring your completion is valid and accepted by the court. Each agency operates differently. We strictly follow state minimum standards and county contract requirements to ensure compliance. Our goal is to prevent delays, rejected certificates, or legal complications for you.


If you are running late, you must text your counselor immediately.

Please be aware that after 5 minutes, the Zoom meeting will be locked and you will not be able to log in. If you are unable to join due to lateness, you will be marked absent and will be required to make up the session.

Unfortunately, no. Once you enroll, you will be assigned a primary IOP counselor who is responsible for your treatment and reporting. Maintaining the same counselor throughout your IOP helps ensure continuity of care and the highest quality of treatment.

Yes. If your schedule or availability changes, you may request a permanent change to a different IOP group, based on availability. We will do our best to accommodate your needs while ensuring continuity of care and compliance with treatment requirements.

No. All of our services are provided virtually.

If you are unsure of the class name, please refer to the top of your provider referral list. The specific service required will be listed at the top of the page. If you are still unsure, please contact your probation officer to confirm the correct program you need. 

Meet Our Team

Meet Joyce (Client Success Manager)

Meet Joyce (Client Success Manager)

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Meet Di, PhD (c), LPC, LCDC (Founder and Owner)

Hi, I’m DiShanna (Di), the owner and founder of A Better Journey Therapeutic and Educational Services. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor with 13 years of experience in the counseling field. I hold a PhD(c) and will soon be completing my Doctorate in Addiction and Neuroscience. My passion lies in helping others overcome addiction, depression, anxiety, and unhealed trauma.\n\n Before becoming an addictions counselor, I struggled with alcoholism for nine years, along with depression, anxiety, and PTSD. My addiction led to multiple encounters with the legal system, spending much of my adolescent and young adult years on probation for alcohol-related offenses. But by the grace of God, I overcame those challenges, broke free from addiction, and founded A Better Journey to help others do the same.\n\n My mission is to support individuals on probation, helping them complete their court requirements while evaluating their relationship with alcohol and other substances. I believe probation is a second chance—an opportunity to learn from past mistakes and build a better future, free from jail or prison. I enjoy guiding clients toward self-discovery, helping them understand the root causes of their substance use, and turning setbacks into powerful comebacks.\n\n Outside of work, I love spending time with my husband, four children, and extended family. I enjoy traveling, attending church, and seeking adventure—whether it's rollercoasters, rock climbing, zip-lining, or skydiving.\n\n My favorite quote is, “It’s never too late to be who you should have been.” And my favorite scripture is, “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” – Proverbs 16:3.\n\n My team and I are honored to support you on A Better Journey!

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Meet Maurice (Co-Owner, Marketing Strategist and COO)

Hi, I'm Maurice, the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of A Better Journey Therapeutic Services. I lead strategic initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and execution, ensuring we provide the highest level of care.\n\n I have a Bachelor of Science in Health Science and a Master of Science in Healthcare Administration. Currently, I’m in the final year of my Doctorate in Healthcare Administration, further strengthening my expertise in healthcare leadership and innovation.\n\n I’m passionate about enhancing access to quality substance use treatment and committed to making a lasting impact in the lives of individuals on their recovery journey.

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Meet May (Administrative Program Supervisor)

Hello, I'm Maylin (May)! I am the Administrative Program Supervisor here at A Better Journey. My goal is to support each of you by providing detailed information about our programs and guiding you through the enrollment process, ensuring you can begin your treatment as smoothly as possible. I’m truly grateful to be part of this amazing team, and I want to make sure you feel comfortable choosing us and reaching out with any questions you may have.</p><>“Do everything in love.” – 1 Corinthians 16:14

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Meet Sara, BA, LCDC (Clinical Manager- Bilingual Program Manager)

Hi, I’m Sara! I am a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Texas A&M International University.

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Meet Curtis-Revenue & Claims Manager

Hi, I'm Curtis, the Revenue & Claims Manager. I attended Texas Southern University, and I love spending time with family, sharing laughter and good moments. In my free time, I have a passion for exploring new places through travel.

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Meet Kimberli, AAS, LCDC (IOP & SOP Counselor, and Discharge Planner)

Hi, I’m Kimberli. I attended Tarrant County College District in Fort Worth, Texas, and have been a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC) in Texas since 2016. My own recovery journey began in 2007, and it has fueled my passion for helping others overcome the challenges of addiction and build a fulfilling, sober life.

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Meet Asia, AAS, LCDC (Dallas Program Counselor)

Hi, I am Asia! I am a dedicated professional committed to guiding individuals on their journey to recovery and healing.

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Meet LaWonta, MSW, MA, LCDC-I (Program Counselor)

Hi! I’m LaWonta, and I bring over 14 years of experience advocating for vulnerable populations through the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.

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Meet Javier, MS, LCDC-I (Bilingual Program Counselor)

Meet Javier, MS, LCDC-I (Bilingual Program Counselor)

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Meet Vincent BA, LCDC (IOP and SOP Program Counselor)

I am Vincent, a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC III) with a passion for helping individuals overcome substance use challenges. Since 2014, I have been dedicated to using evidence-based practices and therapeutic modalities to support clients on their recovery journey.

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Meet Sandy, MS, LCDC (IOP & SOP Program Counselor)

Hi, I am Sandy. I am a dedicated and passionate addiction professional with a strong background in substance use counseling and clinical management. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Tarleton State University. My work is centered around building relationships with local resources to ensure comprehensive care for the clients I serve in my community.

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Meet Cedric, MSW, BS, LCDC-I, QMHP-CS (SOP Program Counselor)

HI! I am Cedric, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, and a Master Social Worker, with more than 10-years of experience in counseling, mental health, and social services.

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Why Trust Us:

  • Compassionate Counselors with 5-Star Ratings!
  • Online Classes via Zoom!
  • Court Approved Certificate of Completion!
  • Free Next Day Delivery of Certificate of Completion!
  • We offer Flexible Payment Plan Options!
  • We Offer a Variety of Programs to Fit Your Scheduling Needs!
  • We Treat All Clients with Dignity and Respect!
Our programs are also available in Spanish.


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