Frequently Asked Questions

Important: COVID-19 statement of Peponi Wellness, LLC

Although the coronavirus pandemic has officially ended, COVID-19 remains a health concern.

Ensuring the safety and health of our patients and providers is our highest priority.

If you think you have been exposed to COVID‑19 and develop a fever and symptoms, such as cough or difficulty breathing, CALL your primary healthcare provider for medical advice.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

For informational purposes only. Consult your local medical authority for advice.

Please contact us by phone at ‪312.447.9709‬ or email for more information or to schedule a Telehealth session.

Please notify your provider immediately if you have symptoms and wish to change or cancel an appointment.

Preventive Measures

The CDC recommends the following to avoid spreading COVID-19:

Stay home when you are sick with influenza-like illness.
Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Avoid touching your nose, mouth and eyes.
Cover your coughs and sneezes.
Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer after coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose.
Keep frequently touched common surfaces clean, i.e., telephones, computer equipment, etc.

1.What is psychotherapy?

Treatment of psychological, emotional, or behavioral disorders through interpersonal communications between a patient and a therapist. The goal is to establish a relationship in which the patient can feel free to express personal thoughts and emotions and thus gain the understanding necessary for change. The psychotherapist is trained to assess your condition and to help reduce your symptom severity. Your therapist will help you learn appropriate skills to cope with your condition and your life stressors.

2.How do I choose a therapist?

Finding the right therapist is important. You can begin by looking at the therapist’s training and areas of expertise on this website.

3.Why do people go to therapy?

There are many reasons to seek therapy. One useful indicator: if the problem interferes with your functioning or quality of life, it can be very beneficial to address it in therapy. Among the issues frequently addressed in therapy are conflicts in relationships, finding that you are repeating negative patterns, no longer enjoying activities that were pleasurable, and feeling “stuck.” Often, addressing your problems with a therapist can provide a new perspective and outlook.

4.How long before I feel better?

You may feel better right after the first appointment, because you are doing something about the problem. Those feelings may give way to the work of dealing with your issues. Change is often difficult. Whether you are in short-term or long-term therapy, some sessions will be difficult as you face your feelings and others will be gratifying as you learn to cope, feel more empowered, and see yourself making changes. Benefits are sometimes slow and sometimes rapid. If you stay with the work, you will feel the benefits as they occur. The trusting relationship with your therapist will be helpful in talking about the work and in sharing your reactions to it.

5.How do I make an appointment?

We are not currently accepting new clients at this time. Typically, you can make an appointment by calling ‪312.447.9709‬ and speaking with our staff. If you prefer, you can fill out the information request form found on this website under Contact Us. Typically, we will return your call within 24 hours during the business week to discuss your needs and to schedule an appointment.

6.How soon will I be able to see a therapist?

Usually an initial appointment will be scheduled within 1 to 2 weeks with a psychotherapist.

7.How frequent are the sessions?

Sessions are often scheduled weekly, although they could be scheduled more or less often, depending on your needs and availability.

8.How long does each session last?

Each therapy session is approximately 45-50 minutes, whether in the office or via Telemedicine.

9.Will my information be kept confidential?

A professional code of ethics and the law require each therapist to keep everything between the therapist and patient in the strictest confidence. The only exceptions are those mandated by law. Maryland law, for instance, dictates that situations involving child abuse (present or past) must be reported. Other exceptions include court subpoenas and instances where someone’s life is in danger because of homicidal or suicidal intent. When appropriate, and with the patient’s written permission only, a therapist may exchange information with physicians, hospitals, or other professionals. Always discuss any privacy or confidentiality concerns with your therapist.

10.What should I expect during my first session?

Your first appointment will be an evaluation of your current condition. Your therapist will ask questions such as your reasons for seeking treatment, learn about your current living situation, stressors that may be affecting your daily life, and ask about your background and upbringing. Your therapist will assess your symptom severity using measurement based care, discussing your personal strengths and any treatment barriers. You will be provided with information about available treatment options and an opportunity to ask questions. You will be asked to identify your treatment preferences. After engaging in shared decision making, you will select the treatment you prefer, and and together you will develop individualized goals and create a treatment plan.