Theresa Herring, MS, LMFT

Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can. – Arthur Ashe
Theresa Herring Therapist

Find clarity. Improve your relationship. Live a life that feels right.

Hi there! Welcome to my about page. I’m so glad you’re here. Rather than going straight into my professional qualifications (snooze), I’m going to do something a little different than you’ve seen on other therapist websites. Because I’m guessing that you’re more interested in knowing if I’m the right therapist for you than where I went to school.

I’m thinking right now you probably want to know: Will I get you? and Can I help you?

So, given that, I’m thinking it might be useful to share the types of clients who are most successful in therapy with me. How does that sound? Good? See, this sounds like a fit already.

I work best with people who:

  • Are unhappy with their current situation and are ready to do something about it
  • Appreciate understanding where behaviors come from so that they can move forward with their life
  • Value insightful questions, direct feedback, and a sense of humor
  • Are ready to prioritize and invest in their mental health and romantic relationships

Does this sound like you? If so, then let’s definitely schedule a time for the two of us to talk!

Yes I’m ready to schedule my free 15 minute consultation!

Life isn’t what you thought it’d be

 

At the end of the day, the only thing you want to do is binge watch Netflix and drink a glass of wine (or three…). So, while your Instagram is on point, your real life leaves something to be desired. And you can’t help but think that something’s got to change. This isn’t exactly the kind of life that you had in mind. You thought it would be more fun and your relationship more fulfilling. But right now it feels like you’re living with a roommate rather than a partner.

 

Relationships are hard.

 

And, let’s be real, modern relationships are even harder. Work doesn’t end at 5pm. Calls, texts, and emails bombard the commute home, date nights, and even weekends. And speaking of phones, couples often spend more time on social media that actually talking. There is more distraction, disconnect, and opportunity than ever before. Which leaves you feeling over stimulated and unfulfilled. (Queue the Netflix and wine…)

 

It doesn’t have to stay this way. Counseling can help.

 

Ready to switch off of autopilot and find new ways of interactingWant to disagree without it devolving into yelling or shutting down? Ready to heal past hurts and get your relationship to a good placeTogether we’ll set goals and create a road map to a life that feels right. My goal is for you to feel connected in your relationship and confident in your life. I want you to live with intention and feel like your authentic self. Happiness might not be as far away as you think. Let’s see if we can get you there.

 

Now for the professional qualifications… Because you need to know that I’m legit

 

I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Illinois (#166.001145). My master’s degree is in Couple and Family Therapy (Thomas Jefferson University) and a Bachelor’s in Gender Studies and Psychology from Denison University. Unlike most therapists, I have specialized training in couples therapy and discernment counseling. I have advanced training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy (completed level two of three) and Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy. In addition, I am a Certified Discernment Counselor.

 

And you know what? I love what I do and I’m pretty darn good at it.

 

 

COMMON QUESTIONS:

Why do People Choose you as their Therapist?
Most often it’s because they resonate with my style and think I can help. The biggest predictor of success in therapy is the therapeutic relationship. Which is why I offer a free phone consultation to see if we’re a good fit. During our chat, I’ll give you a chance to ask questions and I’ll have some for you as well.

Secondly, many clients choose me for couples therapy because their individual therapist recommended me. They pick me because I come highly recommended, I resonate with them, and I know what I’m doing. This is important because too many relationships have been hurt by bad couples therapy.

Thirdly, people choose me because former and current clients value my work. When you provide high quality therapy, you get a lot of referrals by word of mouth.

Do You Take Insurance?
I am out of network with insurance. Some of my clients choose to use their “out of network” benefits to cover a portion of therapy. Others (especially couples) choose to refrain from receiving a mental health diagnosis and pay out of pocket. All of my clients feel like the investment in their mental health (and marriage!) is worth it.

Want to know a little more about why I don’t take insurance? Read this blog post.

How Much Does Therapy Cost?

Your investment is $175 for couple’s counseling or individual therapy (50min). Because discernment counseling sessions are longer, they are $400 for the intake (2 hours) and $300 for the subsequent sessions (1.5 hours). I accept cash, check, and all major debit/credit cards (including HSAs and FSAs).

Do You Have a Sliding Scale?
I have a couple of reduced fee slots but they are currently filled at this time. In order to provide the highest quality of therapy possible, I see fewer clients (and do more training) than your average therapist. This means that I am unable to slide my fee.

I'm ready to improve my relationship and change my life!

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