Q & A

Frequently Asked Questions

getting started

Rates + Insurance

What Therapy Is Like

session logistics

Not at all. Most people don’t. We’ll start with what feels most present, and I’ll help guide the conversation. You don’t need to prepare anything, just show up.

It's a short, no pressure cal where we'll talk about what you are looking for, and I'll share how I work with clients. I also answer any questions you have about this process. We also go over the business-y side of things too. It is just a chance to get to know each other and see if it feels like a good fit. 

That’s okay. Many people feel uncertain at first. The free consultation is a great space to talk about your hesitations and get a sense of whether this might be helpful for you.

Every therapist has a different style, and timing matters too. My approach is personalized, non-judgmental, and collaborative. We’ll figure out what’s not working and build something that actually feels supportive for where you are now.

My session fees are based on the length of your appointment:
  • Initial session (60-minute) : $160
  • 45-minute session: $130

Yes! I'm an in-network provider with BCBS PPO, which means lower costs for you. I also work with other PPO plans like BCBS- Blue Choice, Aetna, UHC, and Cigna—though these insurance companies would be out-of-network.

I always tell my clients: when in doubt, give your insurance a call to understand your benefits. It takes just a few minutes and saves so much confusion later. It's always better to know upfront! Here are the key questions to ask:

  • Do I have in-network or out-of-network mental health benefits?
  • Is there a deductible I need to meet first?
  • What's my copay or co-insurance after meeting the deductible?
  • Is Stacy Perkins, LCPC, in my network?
  • Do I need pre-authorization for therapy?

The best part is you don't have to worry about filing claims yourself. I have an amazing billing specialist who handles all insurance submissions for you. That way, it's just one less thing on your plate so you can focus on what matters to you today.

Yes, therapy is typically an eligible expense for Health Savings or Flexible Spending Accounts.
I can help with many different issues and challenges. Here are a few of the most common:

  • Anxiety that won’t quiet down, even when life is “going well”
  • High-functioning anxiety for women who are juggling work, family, and pressure to perform
  • Panic attacks, spiraling thoughts, and fear of the unknown
  • Perfectionism, imposter syndrome, and chronic guilt
  • People-pleasing, difficulty setting boundaries or saying what you need
  • Burnout, emotional exhaustion, and loss of joy
  • Relationship, marriage and communication Issues
  • Self-worth and confidence building
  • Shifting life stages- from prepping for baby to navigating menopause
  • Stress management and coping skills

My approach is always tailored to you, because no two people are the same. That said, I often use a blend of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Trauma Informed Therapy, to help you both understand your patterns and start shifting them.

  • CBT helps us identify the thoughts and beliefs that fuel your anxiety and teaches you how to respond differently when those thoughts show up.

  • Psychodynamic Therapy helps us explore the deeper roots, like past experiences or relationship patterns, that may be influencing how you feel and react now.

  • ACT teaches us to accept difficult thoughts and feelings rather than fighting them, while taking action toward what truly matters to them. Instead of eliminating anxiety, clients learn to move forward with their values despite uncomfortable emotions.

  • Trauma-informed therapy starts with the understanding that you're not broken. Your responses make complete sense given what you've been through. It's an approach that creates a safe, trusting space where we can gently explore how your past experiences might be showing up today, helping you heal at your own pace while honoring your incredible resilience.

I'll also bring in whatever tools make sense for your life. Things like setting healthy boundaries, mindfulness practices, managing intense emotions, getting clear on your values, finding your voice, handling stress better, and building skills that actually work in your daily life, not just during our time together.

Nope. Therapy isn’t about advice, it’s about helping you trust your own insight and build the confidence you need to make wise decisions that align with who you are and what you want in life. However, we will actively work together to develop skill, plans, practices that will help you take steps in the direction you want to go.
That’s completely okay. You’re in the driver’s seat. I’ll never pressure you to go somewhere you’re not ready to explore. We’ll move at the pace that feels comfortable and safe for you.
No, I don’t prescribe medication. As a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC), my role is to support you through talk therapy, insight, and practical tools. If we ever reach a point where it seems like medication might be helpful, I can refer you to a trusted psychiatrist or medical provider to explore those options.

Many of my clients find that therapy alone helps them feel significantly better, but if additional support is needed, we’ll navigate that together.

Therapy sessions range from 45–60 minutes, depending on your needs and budget.
Most clients start with weekly sessions for 6-8 weeks. Then, we re-evaluate what rhythm will support your needs and goals.
Yes! I offer secure, confidential teletherapy for clients located in Illinois, where I am licensed. You can read more about my therapy services here.
Yes. Men are absolutely welcome! While I focus on women, anxiety and stress can greatly affect men as well.
My office is located at 333 N. Michigan Ave. Suite 1010, Chicago, IL 60601 The building entrance is on Michigan Ave. next to Starbucks near Wacker Dr.
I ask for at least 24 hours’ notice to cancel or reschedule a session. Late cancellations will be subject to the session fee and are not reimbursable by insurance.
There are a few ways we can get started.

Still have questions?

Starting therapy can bring up a lot of questions for some people. Below, you’ll find answers to some of the most common things people wonder (but don’t always ask out loud). If you’re still unsure about something, you're always welcome to reach out.

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