alt

Frequent Questions

What can I expect from counseling?

Counseling is a process in which you explore thoughts, feelings, beliefs, values and behaviors in order to improve problematic life situations. Your therapist will not tell you what to do, but rather will guide you toward making your own decisions. It is common to feel some relief after an initial session or two, but sometimes counseling can open up levels of awareness that can also bring on anxiety and painful feelings. Be prepared for an investment of both time and emotional energy in order to achieve the rewards and growth that counseling can bring. Please remember that during this process, you are in charge. Strive to be open with your therapist and share your thoughts feelings, fears and frustrations during the counseling process.

How do I schedule an appointment?

Frankfort Counseling Associates is unique in that all our therapists are independent practitioners. So, instead of speaking first with an intake staff person, as with most counseling practices, you can contact any therapist directly to inquire about their services, fees, theoretical style, etc. However, if you are unsure of which therapist to contact or have general questions, you can contact the main office number (815) 469-6480 and a therapist will be happy to return your call when available.

How do I choose a therapist?

All the therapists at Frankfort Counseling Associates independent practitioners who are skilled and well-trained therapists with many years of experience. They all treat individuals, couples and families dealing with a variety of mental health issues. However, many of the therapists have additional areas of expertise and training. We encourage you to review the detailed information on each therapist to learn more about their areas of specialty. Remember, if you are having difficulty selecting someone, you can call any one of our therapists or the general office number (815) 469-6480 for more information.

What can I expect at my first appointment?

The first session is really a getting-to-know-you session. It is a time for the therapist to learn about you and why you are seeking therapy but also a time for you to become acquainted with the therapist. You and your therapist will talk about what brought you to therapy, and how the problem or issue is impacting your daily life. He/she will also ask questions about your background, your family, your health, medications, etc. This information helps the therapist gain an overall view of the issues impacting your life. By the end of the first session, both you and your therapist will identify the main issues, some basic goals for therapy and discuss how therapy will proceed.

At Frankfort Counseling Associates, we strongly believe clients will make the best progress when they find a good fit with a therapist. Thus we encourage clients to ask questions, and share ideas or concerns. Likewise if a therapist feels a professional with a different theoretical style or expertise in a specialized area is warranted, a referral may be made for a different therapist. Remember it is our goal for your therapy experience to be both meaningful and productive.

How often will I have appointments?

The answer is very individualized. During the initial sessions, you and your therapist will identify issues for therapy and develop a plan of treatment. Depending on your needs and treatment goals, sessions typically range from weekly to bimonthly.  However, this can increase or decrease in frequency based on the current issues. Our therapists try to help you find a balance between the demands of your daily life and getting the therapeutic support you need to meet your goals.

What will I have to pay when I come to an appointment?

Each of our therapists is an independent practitioner and each accepts a variety of insurance plans. When you schedule an appointment with a therapist, they will obtain information on any insurance coverage and review their office procedures for billing insurance and collection of co-payments and deductibles. We strongly encourage all clients to contact their insurance company prior to scheduling an appointment. This will help you to understand your insurance benefits and avoid any unnecessary frustrations with fees and billing.

For those without insurance, a sliding fee can be arranged. You can discuss a fee with your therapist prior to your first appointment.

Schedule Appointment

Start your new path in life and be the change today!

Click Here