Common questions about therapy at Be Well Counseling & Wellness
Frequently Asked Questions
Starting therapy can bring up a lot of questions. Below are answers to what we hear most often. If your question isn't here, please call us at (847) 748-1100 or send a message. We're happy to help.
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Getting Started
How do I know if I need therapy?
If you are asking yourself this question, therapy may be worth exploring. You do not need to be in crisis to benefit. People seek therapy for many reasons: persistent anxiety or sadness, relationship struggles, grief, major life transitions, trauma, burnout, or simply feeling stuck. If something in your life is causing you ongoing distress and the tools you have are not working, therapy can help.
How do I schedule a first appointment at Be Well Counseling?
The fastest way to schedule is to call (847) 748-1100. You can also email info@bewellcounselingwellness.com or use the contact form on our website. A team member will respond within one business day to help match you with a therapist whose specialties and availability fit your needs.
What should I expect at my first therapy session?
Your first session is a conversation, a chance for you and your therapist to get to know each other and see if it's a good fit. Your therapist will ask about what brought you in, what is currently going on for you, and a bit about your background. You are not expected to share everything on day one.
You are encouraged to ask any questions you have especially about your therapist's style or how they work. It also helps to start thinking about what you would like to get out of therapy.
By the end of the session, your therapist will share their recommendations for moving forward, including how often sessions might take place. Most sessions are 50 minutes long.
How long does therapy usually take?
It varies. Some people feel significant relief within 8 to 12 sessions. Others benefit from longer-term work, particularly for trauma, complex grief, or long-standing patterns. Your therapist will check in with you regularly about progress and goals so you always have a sense of where you are in the process.
How often will I meet with my therapist?
Most clients meet weekly when starting therapy. As progress is made, sessions often shift to every other week or monthly. The schedule is collaborative we match the frequency to what is most helpful for you.
Insurance & Cost
What insurance plans do you accept?
Be Well Counseling & Wellness accepts most insurance, including:
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Aetna
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Aetna Medicare Advantage
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BCBS PPO
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BCBS Choice PPO
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Cigna
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Medicare
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United Behavioral Health
Coverage can vary by therapist and plan. We will verify your mental health benefits, including copay, deductible, and any session limits.
How much does a therapy session cost?
Session fees at Be Well Counseling typically range from $100 to $150. With insurance, your out-of-pocket cost depends on your specific plan, copay, and deductible. If you have questions about cost, call our office at (847) 748-1100 and we can help clarify what to expect.
Do you offer a sliding scale or reduced fees?
Yes, in some circumstances we are able to offer a sliding scale fee for clients who are unable to afford the standard rate. If cost is a barrier to receiving care, please reach out to us at (847) 748-1100 to discuss options.
Do I need a referral from my doctor to start therapy?
In most cases, no you can schedule directly with us without a referral. Some insurance plans (particularly HMOs) may require a referral from your primary care doctor to cover the visit. Check with your insurance provider if you are unsure.
What is your cancellation policy?
We require 24 hours notice to cancel or reschedule an appointment. Cancellations made with less than 24 hours notice may be subject to a late cancellation fee. We understand that emergencies happen, and our team does its best to work with clients in genuine urgent situations.
Who We Treat
What ages do you work with?
We see clients of all ages from young children through older adults. Our team includes therapists with specialized training in working with children, adolescents, young adults, adults, couples, and families. When you call, we will match you with a therapist experienced with your age group and concerns.
Do you see couples and families?
Yes. We provide counseling for couples working through communication challenges, trust issues, or disconnection, as well as for families navigating conflict, blended family dynamics, parenting challenges, and life transitions. When you call, we will match you with a therapist whose experience fits your situation.
What kinds of issues do you treat?
Our therapists treat a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, relationship issues, life transitions, stress, low self-esteem, parenting challenges, adolescent behavioral concerns, divorce and blended family issues, chronic illness, women's issues, men's issues, LGBTQ+ concerns, and more. See our Services page for more information.
What is EMDR therapy?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based therapy for trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and related conditions. Using bilateral stimulation, typically guided eye movements, EMDR helps the brain reprocess difficult memories so they no longer carry the same emotional charge. It is recognized by the American Psychiatric Association and the World Health Organization as a first-line treatment for PTSD. Several of our therapists are EMDR-trained.
Do you prescribe medication?
No. Our therapists do not prescribe medication. However, for clients who benefit from medication alongside therapy, we coordinate closely with psychiatrists, family physicians, and physician assistants to ensure your care is comprehensive and well-integrated.
Scheduling & Logistics
Where is Be Well Counseling & Wellness located?
Our office is located at 18 E Dundee Rd, Building 6, Suite 140, Barrington, IL 60010. We serve clients throughout Barrington, Lake Barrington, Cary, Crystal Lake, Fox River Grove, Palatine, Hoffman Estates, and the surrounding Northwest Suburbs of Chicago.
Do you offer telehealth or virtual therapy sessions?
Yes. We offer secure telehealth sessions for clients who prefer to meet virtually or whose schedules make in-person sessions difficult. Telehealth sessions are conducted through a HIPAA-compliant video platform. Whether telehealth is right for you depends on the type of therapy and your preferences. Your therapist can help you decide.
Do you offer evening or weekend appointments?
Yes. We offer both evening and weekend appointments to accommodate clients with busy schedules. Availability varies by therapist, so we recommend calling (847) 748-1100 to find a time that works for you.
How do I know which therapist is the right fit for me?
When you call our office, we will ask about what brings you in, your preferences, and your schedule, then match you with a therapist whose specialties and approach fit your needs. If you feel your therapist is not the right fit after a session or two, let us know, finding the right match matters, and we will help you transition to another clinician.
Is what I share with my therapist confidential?
Yes. What you share in therapy is confidential and protected by law under HIPAA. There are a small number of legal exceptions, such as situations involving imminent danger to yourself or others, or suspected abuse of a child or vulnerable adult, which your therapist will explain at your first session. Outside of these exceptions, your privacy is fully protected.