At your first appointment, you can expect to complete some paperwork that helps us to get to know you better, describes office policy and procedures, the therapy process and your right to privacy.

The therapist will create a safe, therapeutic and confidential environment while gathering information about your presenting issue or reasons for seeking therapy. This first appointment functions more like an assessment. We will gather relevant information about your life experiences that help gain a better understanding of what has brought you in for counseling.

Toward the end of the session, we will begin to discuss what you are looking to gain from counseling and how we can achieve those goals. The course of counseling is an ongoing assessment to determine what approaches are working best for you and how we are doing in meeting your goals.

To request an initial appointment, please email erinredfern@essentiallyyoucounseling.com or call 815.295.5470. If we believe that our practice would be a good fit based on your needs and availability, we will suggest a therapist and schedule your initial session.

We can be flexible to fit your schedule! Day, evening, and weekend appointments are available. Visit our Contact page for official office hours.

Therapists at Essentially You Counseling and Wellness Services are providers for a variety of health insurance panels. To verify if a we are a provider in your plan, please call 815-295-5470 or call the mental health network number usually provided on the back of your insurance card. Your portion of the cost will vary based on your coinsurance, copay and/or deductible. We also accept clients who do not wish to utilize their insurance benefits.

Sessions are typically 45-55 minutes in length. Initial evaluation sessions might take a bit longer.

Typically, sessions occur once per week. The therapist and client may decide to increase or decrease the frequency of visits depending on progress and need.

Length of treatment depends on the presenting issue and the goals of treatment. The therapist and client will collaborate to determine the length of treatment that is clinically appropriate and feels comfortable for the client.

Psychologists, social workers and licensed clinical professional counselors do not prescribe medication, but do work closely with psychiatrists and physicians who do prescribe. If it appears that medication might be appropriate, your therapist will discuss this with you and recommend that you speak with a physician to schedule an evaluation.

Yes. However, in certain situations, therapists are required by law to reveal information obtained during therapy without your permission. These situations include:

• If you disclose the intention to harm yourself or another person
• If a court of law issues a legitimate court order that is signed by a judge
• If you reveal information concerning the physical abuse, sexual abuse or neglect of a child (in the past as well as in the present).