FAQ & Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Click a question below to see the answer.
Who do you work with?
Individual adults ages 18 and up.
Do you do any couples or family counseling?
No, my focus is individual therapy.
Do you work with children or teens?
I occasionally will see older teenagers but generally work with adults.
What approach do you use?
I use an integrative approach to tailor therapy for each person, depending on the client’s particular circumstances, problems, and needs. I have specialized training in dynamic psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and mindfulness.
What kinds of issues can you help me with?
My areas of specialty include depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, and balancing multiple roles. Please see the specialties page for a complete list.
How much does therapy cost?
A standard 50-minute session (either in-person or virtual) is $175. For new clients, I offer a free initial consultation by phone, which is usually about 15 to 30 minutes.
How do I pay?
You can pay by check or credit card. Payment is due at the time of each session or at regular intervals (usually monthly).
Do you offer a sliding fee scale?
Yes, under certain circumstances I do slide my fee. Please call me to discuss this as an option.
Do you accept health insurance?
No. I do not participate in any health insurance plans because I strongly value confidentiality and autonomy. Insurance companies often require details about your mental health and treatment. Additionally, they are often involved in determining the type and length of mental health care you receive. I am not willing to compromise your privacy or care by routinely sharing this information with the staff of insurance companies.
Can I file with my own insurance company for reimbursement?
Yes. I can provide you with documentation that you can file with your insurance company to seek reimbursement if you choose. I recommend contacting your insurance company and asking about your plan’s out-of-network coverage so you can make an informed decision before beginning therapy. Please note that reimbursement varies widely among insurance companies.
Do you see people on evenings or weekends?
Sometimes, but most of my appointments are during regular working hours.
How often would I see you?
Most clients set regular weekly appointments, especially at the beginning of treatment. As therapy progresses, we sometimes meet at less frequent intervals.
What are your hours?
My hours are flexible and allow us to schedule appointment times that work for both of us.
How long will I likely be in therapy?
Treatment can be short-term or longer-term, depending on your needs. Some clients see me for only a few sessions to help get through a particular difficulty, while others continue for several years.
What hours can I call you?
You may call the number on this site, (847) 321-5731, at any time. You will likely get my voicemail, or I may answer in person if your call is during the day or early evening. If I don’t pick up, please leave me a voice message with your number and a good time to call you back.
Is it better to call or email you?
Either is fine.
How long will it be before you get back to me?
I usually am able to reply within 24 hours.
Can I call you if I am in crisis or urgently need to talk to someone?
Established clients may contact me in a crisis, depending on the situation. If you become a client, I will provide more details about how this would work.
How long are your therapy appointments?
Standard appointments are 50 minutes. On occasion we might schedule shorter or longer appointments, if needed.
What if I need to cancel or reschedule?
Please provide me with at least 24 hours of notice and there will be no charge to you.
What’s the best way to contact you?
Feel free to call, email, or use the contact form. I usually reply within 24 hours.
Do you prescribe medication?
No, since I am a psychologist, not a psychiatrist, I do not prescribe medication. However I can facilitate a referral if you do need medication.
Resources
Suicide prevention hotline: ✆ 800-273-TALK (8255)
If you are in suicidal crisis or emotional distress, call this number to get free and confidential help. Available 24/7 in English and Spanish.
What is psychotherapy?
What is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)?
What is dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT)?
I incorporate aspects of DBT if I believe it would be helpful to you in our work but do not offer comprehensive treatment. I have completed the intensive training in DBT and have worked as a member of the DBT team in several clinics that offer comprehensive DBT treatment. As I am a sole practitioner, I cannot offer the comprehensive treatment (which includes structured individual therapy, group skills therapy, homework, and coaching between sessions). If you are interested in a comprehensive program, The Center for Behavioral Medicine (in Brookfield) offers a certified program.
What is dynamic psychotherapy?
While I am not a psychoanalyst (I do not conduct sessions with the same frequency or “on the couch”), my work is informed by analytic principles. I completed a fellowship in psychoanalytic theory and treatment through the Chicago Center for Psychoanalysis and maintain current memberships with psychoanalytic institutes.
What is mindfulness?
There is a wide and growing body of research showing the many benefits of mindfulness, including a reduction in stress, anxiety, and emotional reactivity, and an increase in compassion, insight, and relationship satisfaction. To develop and maintain a regular mindfulness practice, some structure and guidance is very helpful.
Mindfulness apps I recommend:
Both can be found on the internet or in the app store on your phone. In addition to mindfulness courses (for example, basics of mindfulness, anxiety/stress, sadness, and anger), they also offer daily mindfulness sessions, breathing exercises, and lots of different practices to help with sleep.
Psychology Today directory of therapists
If you believe or we find that we are not the best match for each other, Psychology Today maintains an extensive directory of mental health professionals, including profiles. I encourage you to browse this resource to find a therapist suited to your needs.
“Gratitude” video (5:45)
I love this video and find it helpful. If you have a quiet moment, see if it speaks to you as well. I feel incredibly grateful and blessed to be doing this work, and I wish you well on your journey. Perhaps we will walk part of the path together.