Frequently Asked Questions
Everything You Want to Know About Therapy
We know starting therapy brings up lots of questions. Here are honest answers to what women ask us most about mental health support, our practice, and the therapy process.
Getting Started
Beginning Your Therapy Journey
How do I know if I need therapy?
If you're asking this question, it's worth exploring. Common signs include: persistent sadness or anxiety, relationship difficulties, major life changes, feeling stuck, physical symptoms without medical cause, or simply wanting support. You don't need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy.
How do I schedule an appointment?
You can book online through our website, call us at (312) 869-2081, or email katherine@kmhcounseling.com. We offer a free 15-minute consultation to ensure we're a good fit.
Do you have a waitlist?
We typically have openings within 1-2 weeks. For postpartum or crisis situations, we prioritize scheduling and often have same-week availability.
What's the difference between the therapists?
Katherine specializes in infertility, perinatal mental health, and EMDR trauma therapy. She sees clients in-person and virtually. Olivia focuses on general women's mental health, anxiety, and life transitions, exclusively virtually.
Insurance & Payment
Financial Questions
Do you accept insurance?
Yes! We're in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO, Aetna, and Cigna. We also provide superbills for out-of-network reimbursement.
How much does therapy cost?
With insurance: typically $20-40 copay. Without insurance: $250 for initial session, $185 for regular sessions. We accept HSA/FSA cards.
How do I know what my insurance covers?
We verify your benefits before your first session and explain exactly what you'll pay. No surprises.
Our Specialties
Understanding Our Expertise
What does "women's mental health specialist" mean?
It means we exclusively focus on psychological issues affecting women, including hormonal influences, reproductive mental health, societal pressures, and gender-specific trauma. We don't just see women—we specialize in women's unique needs.
I'm struggling with infertility. How can therapy help?
Therapy provides emotional support through treatment, helps with decision-making, addresses relationship strain, processes grief from losses, and teaches coping strategies for the unique stress of fertility challenges.
What is perinatal mental health?
It encompasses mental health from conception through the first year postpartum, including pregnancy anxiety, postpartum depression, birth trauma, and adjustment to parenthood.
Do you prescribe medication?
No, we're therapists (LCPCs), not psychiatrists. We provide therapy and can coordinate with your doctor or refer to psychiatrists when medication might help.
The Therapy Process
What to Expect
How long are sessions?
Initial intake is 90 minutes. Regular sessions are 55 minutes. EMDR sessions are 55 minutes.
How often will I need to come?
Typically weekly at first, then biweekly as you progress. Some clients eventually move to monthly maintenance. We adjust to your needs and budget.
How long will I need therapy?
Varies greatly. Some concerns resolve in 8-12 sessions, others benefit from longer-term support. Average is 3-6 months, but you're in control of duration.
What if I can't make a session?
Cancel with 24 hours notice to avoid charges. We understand life happens and offer rescheduling when possible.
Can I bring my baby to sessions?
Absolutely! Our Bucktown office is baby-friendly. Feed, change, soothe as needed. For virtual sessions, having baby present is completely fine.
Virtual Therapy
Online Session Questions
Is virtual therapy as effective?
Research shows virtual therapy is equally effective for most concerns. Many clients prefer the convenience and comfort of home sessions.
What technology do I need?
Just a device with camera and microphone (computer, tablet, or phone) and stable internet. We use a HIPAA-compliant platform that works on any device.
What if I'm not tech-savvy?
Our platform is user-friendly, and we provide support. If you can video chat with family, you can do virtual therapy.
Can I do therapy from my car?
Yes! Many clients do sessions from parked cars for privacy. Just ensure you're stationary and have good connection.
Specific Concerns
Common Worries Addressed
Will you judge my choices?
Never. Therapy is a judgment-free zone. Whether it's about parenting, relationships, career, or lifestyle choices, we support YOUR decisions.
What if I cry the whole time?
Tears are welcome but not required. Some sessions involve crying, others don't. We have tissues and support for whatever emotions arise.
I'm scared to talk about trauma. Do I have to?
You control what and when you share. We can work on coping skills first and only process trauma when you're ready. EMDR can help process trauma with minimal talking.
Will therapy make me relive painful experiences?
Not necessarily. We use techniques like EMDR that process trauma without extensive retelling. You're always in control of how deep we go.
Privacy & Confidentiality
Your Information Is Safe
Is therapy really confidential?
Yes, with rare legal exceptions: immediate danger to yourself/others, child/elder abuse, or court order. We'll discuss confidentiality fully in first session.
Will you tell my partner/family what we discuss?
No. Everything is confidential unless you sign a release. Even if family members ask, we protect your privacy.
What about insurance companies?
Insurance requires basic diagnosis and treatment info. We share the minimum necessary and never session details.
Do you take notes? Can I see them?
Yes, we take brief notes for continuity of care. You have the right to review your records.
Logistics
Practical Matters
Where are you located?
1820 W. Webster Ave, Suite 400, in Bucktown, Chicago. Street parking available.
What are your hours?
Monday-Friday with early morning and evening appointments available.
Can I switch between in-person and virtual?
Yes! We offer flexibility based on your needs. Some weeks virtual might be easier, other times in-person feels right.
What's your cancellation policy?
24-hour notice required to avoid full session charge. We understand emergencies and work with you when possible.
Results & Outcomes
What Success Looks Like
How will I know therapy is working?
Early signs: feeling heard, slight mood improvement, better understanding of patterns. Later: behavior changes, improved relationships, sustained progress.
What if therapy isn't helping?
We regularly check in about progress. If something isn't working, we adjust our approach. Sometimes we might recommend additional resources or different treatment.
Can I take breaks from therapy?
Absolutely. Some clients take breaks and return when needed. Your therapy journey doesn't have to be linear.
Will I need therapy forever?
Most clients don't need indefinite therapy. We work toward you having tools to manage independently, with option to return as needed.
Still Have Questions?
Don't see your question answered? No problem. We offer a free 15-minute consultation to address your specific concerns and ensure we're the right fit for your needs.
📧 katherine@kmhcounseling.com
📍 Bucktown, Chicago + Virtual throughout Illinois
No question is too small or too complex. We're here to support your journey.