Do you provide services in-person or virtually?

I am providing therapy both in my office (180 N Michigan Ave, St. 2201 in Chicago) and virtually.

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How do I know if I, or my child could benefit from psychological counseling?
When emotions or behaviors interfere with life, then it may be helpful to consult with a mental health professional.  Dr. Aschkenasy believes that counseling is about helping patients have the freedom to make thoughtful choices about their behavior - not reactive, impulsive, or irrational, not the opposite of what their parents want(ed) them to do, and not doing what is comfortable because it is what has been done or modeled in the past.  With younger children, Dr. Aschkenasy works with the parent(s) or guardian(s) and schools when indicated, to understand behavior patterns and establish consistent methods to influence them.  Together with Dr. Aschkenasy, you can determine whether the behaviors warrant additional attention, and if so, decide on the best treatment plan.  Dr. Aschkenasy is very comfortable suggesting no treatment, if none is warranted.  

How do I find the right counselor for me or my child?
Ask your physician, pediatrician, school counselor, friends and/or relatives for names of counselors they may have worked with or heard about.  Then call and talk with the counselor or make an appointment to meet in person.  Trust your own reactions when you are with the counselor, ask questions, and see how you feel and react to the answers, and the manner in which they are conveyed.  The degree the counselor has (L.C.S.W., Ph.D., or M.D.) is less important than their experience, expertise, and you feeling that you are able to work with them.  Counseling is a relationship based on mutual respect, trust and communication.

How many sessions will I, or my child, need?  
While it may be helpful to have multiple sessions over a period of time, even one session can be helpful.  On average, sessions are once a week, and last 45 - 60 minutes.  The length, frequency and duration of sessions are mutually determined by the therapist and the patient (and/or parents or guardians), and usually depend on the severity and the complexity of the symptoms, or presenting problems.

Will counseling be covered by insurance?
Dr. Aschkenasy is a licensed clinical psychologist and is an in-network provider for Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO. If you do not have Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO, please check with your carrier as you may still be eligible for reimbursement. 

What forms of payment do you take?

Dr. Aschkenasy accepts payments via debit or credit cards in addition to Zelle. 

What if I, or my child, need medication?
Dr. Aschkenasy does not prescribe medication.  Dr. Aschkenasy works in collaboration with a number of psychiatrists if a medication evaluation seems appropriate.  If medication is recommended, Dr. Aschkenasy remains the individual's primary therapist, and the patient is additionally seen by the psychiatrist on an as needed basis.  

What might I expect from counseling?
Every patient is different.  Some patients experience immediate relief after getting support for sharing their fears, concerns and feelings.  For others, the process may take longer, and involve a more insight-oriented approach.  Dr. Aschkenasy believes that behavior has meaning, and it is our job to work as a team, to figure out the meaning.  Dr. Aschkenasy's style involves dealing with behaviors and situations in the present, while trying to understand and work through the reasons underlying these behaviors from the past.

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