01What is an LCPC?

LCPC are the credentials that a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor holds.  In Illinois, this means that the clinician has completed a master’s degree in counseling, completed a certain amount of internship hours before graduating, and then completed at least 2 years full time supervised post graduation work in counseling. This post graduation work is supervised by an LCPC or an LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker). To obtain the official LCPC licensure, another more diagnostic exam is completed and passed.

02What is the difference between a social worker, licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC), psychologist and psychiatrist?

Social workers, licensed clinical professional counselors (LCPC), psychologists and psychiatrists are all fully trained mental health professionals, state licensed and experienced in a wide range of mental health treatment modalities.  Clinical social workers (LCSWs) and LCPCs have master’s level degrees in social work or counseling, which includes training and several years of supervised experience in a number of mental health settings.  A psychologist has received a PhD or PsyD degree which includes an internship in a mental health setting. Psychologists are also trained in psychological testing.  A psychiatrist is a physician with a medical degree (MD) with doctoral training and specialization in mental health.  Psychiatrists may prescribe medication.

03What if I need medication in addition to therapy?

Psychologists (most), 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.  If you wish, your therapist can speak with the physician to assist the doctor in determining the right intervention to provide the best overall coordination of care.  Your therapist would need a signed consent form from you to speak with your physician.

04What is the length of sessions?

• Most sessions are 50 minutes.  Initial appointments are 60 minutes.
• Double sessions (110 mins) may be appropriate for more intensive work.
• Sessions with younger children tend to be shorter (like 45 mins), but time debriefing with parents is helpful.

05Does LifePoint take my insurance?

Right now, Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO plans are in-network for our providers, and most other insurance policies as an out-of-network provider (military insurance), are currently accepted.  Unfortunately, the current health care system does not make it easy for reimbursement of payment for clinicians.  Several health insurance providers are also not allowing additional providers to be added.  If finances are an issue, please reach out anyway! I do however believe, that counseling is an investment that gives back in immeasurable ways such as good behaviors, less stress and increasing positive feelings and wellbeing.  Interestingly, people can be more motivated for change when they know how much money they are spending.  Click here for rates and more insurance information.

06What can I do to enhance my success in counseling?

• Be self-motivated and ready to make lasting changes.
• Be willing to take risks and try new things.
• Value the counseling process. Much of your success will take place outside of the office through doing the homework, and keeping any commitments.
• Accept direct and honest feedback.
• Advocate for yourself.  Every person is different.  Share your thoughts about therapy with your therapist.