Frequently Asked Questions
How long do counseling sessions typically last?
Individual counseling sessions last 45-50 minutes, couples counseling sessions last approximately 60 minutes, and couples intensive sessions last between 2-4 hours, depending on what is most effective for each couple.
What happens during the first counseling session?
Several things happen during the first session: most importantly, I am going to want to know more about the struggles you have been having and what you want to be different in your life. I will also describe to you what you can expect from the counseling process, the policies of my office, and how we might work towards your goals. We would end by setting up a schedule for ongoing sessions.
How do I know if I really need counseling?
Counseling can be a great option if you notice that you are struggling more days than not, in your relationship or just in yourself; if you keep trying to make things better and nothing seems to work; if you know what you need to do yet find that it’s just so hard to get yourself to do it. You may feel stressed out, anxious, discouraged and just want to figure out how to feel better. Counseling is beneficial in just these circumstances. Meeting with a skilled clinician can give you just the support you need to make the changes you seek.
How often are sessions scheduled?
Couples counseling typically involves meeting for 50-60 minutes every week or two. The advantage of couples counseling is it can more easily fit into your schedule and is often covered by your insurance.
Couples intensives typically involve meeting for 2-4 hours at a time, for 6-8 sessions. These can be scheduled over a long weekend or over 2-3 months. The advantage of couples intensives is that your relationship can improves much more rapidly, without spending months or years in therapy.
Individual counseling typically involves meeting weekly for 8-15 sessions. After that you may decide to keep with the weekly session schedule, shift to a bi-weekly schedule for ongoing support, or move towards closure.
How much do sessions cost?
Individual sessions cost $165 per session. Couples counseling costs $200 per hour. If you are meeting for an hour, the cost is $200; if you are meeting for 2 hours, the cost is $400, etc.
Are sessions covered by my insurance?
Individual sessions are often covered by insurance; couples sessions are occasionally covered by your insurance. You would need to verify this with your plan. I am in-network with BCBS-IL PPO.
Do you offer in-person sessions, virtual or both?
I counsel couples and individuals both in-person and online, throughout the state of Illinois.
How do I seek reimbursement from my insurance company?
I am happy to submit claims to all insurance plans on your behalf. If you have any other insurance besides BCBS-IL, you would need to pay me up front for each session and then get directly reimbursed by your insurance company after the claim has been processed. Couples intensives are typically not covered by insurance.
Do you have evening and weekend appointments available?
I schedule most couples intensives on Wednesday evenings, Fridays, and Saturdays. I have limited evening availability for Individual and couples counseling sessions (currently there is a waiting list for these).
Where do sessions take place?
I see in-person clients in two office locations: downtown Chicago and downtown La Grange. On occasion I see clients virtually from my home office.
What if counseling isn’t working?
It is a normal part of the counseling process (and of life itself!) to have days and weeks that are going better or worse; typically this is just part of the growth and healing process in therapy. But occasionally, clients will find that things are not getting any better. It is one of the reasons I like to check in with clients every few sessions, to find out how they feel the process is going. That way we can make adjustments, we can shift our focus, we can change how often we meet, we can move towards closure, or I can give referrals to counselors or physicians who might be better able to help.