Frequently Asked Therapy Questions

What kind of therapy do you do?

Because we are all seasoned therapists, we have each developed a style that comes from several schools of thought. Some of us are more skilled with cognitive therapy, some with systems theory, some with Jungian. In addition we have trained in specialized techniques, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). You will find all of us are practical and offer lots of feedback along the way.

How long is a session?

Each session is 50 minutes. You will likely schedule once a week to start.

Do you have experience with my problem?

We are generalists, which means we have seen a wide variety of problems, many times each. When you call for information we can discuss what your own problem is and match you with the therapist most experienced in that area. Generally we treat depression, anxiety disorders, relationship conflicts, teen problems, gay issues, stepfamily and divorcing family issues, codependency, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, grief and loss.

How long will the therapy take?

As you guessed this is tough to predict. What we can say from gathering statistics is that the average length of therapy is 12 to 15 sessions. That means more people than not find they are satisfied with the changes they see in that time. However, many people stay in therapy longer, intent on making more profound changes in their lives. A longer stay in therapy does not mean you have a more serious problem.

Will my insurance cover?

We are PPO providers with Blue Cross Blue Shield. Many other plans cover us as well. Call and we will help you determine what to expect.

What if my wife/husband won't come in with me?

We often get inquiries from a married person who believes firmly that their spouse will not come. This opinion is based on the way the spouse has always put down therapy or because the spouse is very defensive when the subject of problems comes up. We can give you some ideas on how to state clearly what it means to you to see a therapist. Many of the callers who have tried our advice are surprised to have a different answer this time. If you are in pain, so is your partner, even if he or she says it is you who has the problem. Expect that after a single session you will both feel the therapist is listening accurately to each of you. That alone brings new hope.

If you cannot get your spouse to come along and the main problem you face is your marriage, there is still a lot you can do by coming to therapy yourself. Sometimes a reluctant spouse starts to see the positive changes as you become less defensive and then begins to understand the value in therapy.

What is a psychiatrist, a psychologist, a psychotherapist, a social worker, a counselor?

All of us who do talk therapy are called psychotherapist, or therapist, or if you prefer, counselor.

• A psychiatrist is a medical doctor with a specialty in mental illness. He or she may prescribe medications. A client may see the psychiatrist for medicine and a psychotherapist for the weekly talk therapy. Research shows that a combination of both makes for the best outcome with many diagnoses.


• A psychologist is someone with a doctoral degree in psychology (PhD or PsyD), including postdoctoral internship, and is licensed by the state.


• A licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) has a master's degree in social work along with post degree training and is licensed by the state.

• A licensed clinical professional counselor has a master’s degree in counseling with post-degree training and is licensed by the state.

• A licensed marriage and family therapist has a master’s degree in family therapy, post-degree training and is licensed by the state.

At McKane and Associates, PC we are all psychotherapists. You will see that each is either a psychologist, a social worker, a licensed counselor or a marriage and family therapist. You can be confident in knowing all are backed by state laws and professional ethics.

What about medications?

We work with psychiatrists in the area and will be glad to make a referral if we feel there is a need. Not everyone is on medication. Some people require it if they are to improve. For some others it is a choice. We can guide your questions but only a physician can evaluate and prescribe.

When can you see me?

We can get you in within days of your call. Early AM, lunchtime, evening and Saturday appointments are available.

What geographical areas do you serve?

Our practice has one location in St Charles, IL. Our clients come from many surrounding communities, including:

• Aurora, Illinois
• Batavia, Illinois
• Elgin, Illinois
• Geneva, Illinois
• Sandwich, Illinois
• Sycamore, Illinois