Frequently Asked Questions

I am a new client. How do I book an appointment?

To request an appointment, please complete a new client request form or call 847-581-6176.

I am a returning client. How do I book an appointment?

Welcome back! Please complete a new client request form and note you are a returning client, or simply call.

Do you take insurance?

I currently am in-network with BCBS and Cigna. The best way to find out if I am in-network with your insurance is by completing a new client request form. At this time, I do not accept Medicaid or Medicare.

If I am out-of-network with your insurance, you may still be able to use some of your benefits. Many insurances allow you to recuperate some of my fee by submitting an out-of-network request. I will happily guide you through this process.

Do you offer telehealth?

I provide both telehealth and in-person services. I am licensed in both Illinois and Utah. For telehealth, clients must be in the State of Illinois to the State of Utah at the time of session. At this time, licensing laws prohibit me from working with clients who are not in Illinois or Utah at the time of session.

How much does it cost?

Current rates are listed on the rates page. If using insurance, direct cost to the client varies. All payments are due at the time of service.

How will I know if Mind Made Well is the right fit for me?

Treatment begins with an initial consultation session. All new clients are encouraged to treat this as a getting to-know-you session. At the conclusion of your initial consultation session, we will collaboratively decide if we will continue to work together. If you do not elect to continue with me, I will happily provide you with several referrals. Please note, initial sessions are not free.

I also offer a free initial 15 minute phone consultation to prospective clients. If you would like to request this, please complete a new client request form and note your request.

What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a type of psychotherapy (talk therapy) that focuses on the way our thoughts (self-talk), feelings, and behaviors are connected and interact. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) tends to be structured, time-sensitive, present-focused, and collaborative. It also involves a fair amount of work outside of the session, in the form of trying out the solutions we develop in our sessions. You can learn more about CBT here. I did most of my training in CBT through the Beck Institute, one of the premier institutes for learning CBT.

Do you use any other types of therapy or methods of treatment?

Yes. Although I most often use CBT, I tailor treatment to the needs of each person I work with, and may pull in aspects of other types of therapy as is indicated. I commonly use components of Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Mindfulness-Based Therapy. I also refer and coordinate care with other health providers, such as primary care physicians, OB/GYN’s, and psychiatric medication prescribers, as needed, indicated, and desired by my clients.

How long will I be in therapy?

Therapy is a temporary process. Once you start to feel better and achieve your goals, we will work towards ending our relationship. We celebrate this transition, as it is generally evidence that you have made it where you want to go and have acquired skills you can use to maintain your mental wellness independently. Although the length of treatment varies for each person, the typical course of treatment is 12-20 sessions. We often begin with weekly sessions and then decrease frequency towards the end.

Some clients enjoy and benefit from having ongoing support from a therapist. For these clients, we sometimes move from focused therapy to less frequent supportive therapy.

Can you prescribe medications?

No. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), medications are outside of my scope of practice. When medications may be indicated, I commonly provide referrals and coordinate care.

What is your cancellation policy?

When you book an appointment, I reserve that spot just for you. I kindly request at least 24 hours notice of cancellations or reschedules. Appointments that are not cancelled or rescheduled with 24 hours notice are charged the entire session fee.