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Frequently Asked Questions

French Coast
What is therapy, and how can it help me?

Therapy provides a safe, supportive space to explore your thoughts, emotions, and challenges. It can help with self-awareness, emotional regulation, coping strategies, and personal growth.

How do I know if I need therapy?
Mother Carrying Her Daughter

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, anxious, depressed, or struggling in relationships, therapy
can help. Even if you don’t have a specific diagnosis, therapy can provide support and guidance
in difficult times.

What issues do you specialize in?

​I specialize in supporting women, teens and girls through:

  • Anxiety Disorders and Depressive Disorders

  • ADHD and executive functioning difficulties

  • Life transitions and Adjustment Disorders

  • Relationship challenges

  • Self-esteem and identity issues

  • Stress and burnout

  • Trauma

  • Women’s issues such as: infertility, miscarriage, and other women’s health issues.

Senior Woman
What if I feel really nervous about starting therapy? What should I expect in my first session, and
how can I prepare?

It's totally normal to feel nervous before starting therapy. In the first session, we’ll talk about what brought you here and what you’re hoping to achieve. You don’t need to have
all the answers—just showing up is a big step. I’ll guide you through the process, and we’ll take it at your pace.

Do you accept insurance?

Yes, I accept:

 Blue Cross Blue Shield

 United Healthcare

 Aetna

 Molina Health

 Magellan Health

 Cigna

Tricare West

Do you check my mental health benefits for me?

No, I do not contact your insurance company to verify your mental health benefits. It is your responsibility to check your coverage, including:

  • Copays and deductibles

  • Number of covered sessions

  • Pre-authorization requirements

What if my insurance denies coverage?

If your insurance denies a claim, you are responsible for the full session fee. I recommend checking with your provider beforehand to avoid surprises.

Woman on Computer
What if I don’t have insurance or want to pay out-of-pocket?
What forms of payment do you accept?

I accept:

  • Credit/debit cards

  • HSA/FSA cards

  • Cash payments

  • Checks

Working at Home

I accept private pay if you choose not to use insurance. Therapy is an investment in your well-
being, and I am happy to discuss options with you.

Do you offer superbills for out-of-network reimbursement?

Yes, I can provide a superbill, which you can submit to your insurance company for potential reimbursement.

How do I schedule an appointment?

You can call, text, or email me to schedule an appointment. 

Phone: (618) 207-1398

Email: RockRoseCounseling@gmail.com

Pregnant Woman with Mother
Do you offer evening or weekend appointments?

Availability may vary, but I do my best to accommodate busy schedules. Contact me to discuss
available time slots.

Do you offer a consultation session?

Yes, I offer a free 15 minute consultation appointment. Connect with me to schedule a time to meet and see what options may be a good fit for you.

What if I need to cancel or reschedule?

I require at least 24 hours’ notice for cancellations or rescheduling. Late cancellations or no-shows may incur a fee.

Do you offer online therapy?

Yes, I offer telehealth sessions for clients who prefer remote therapy.

Is therapy confidential?

Yes, therapy is confidential. However, there are exceptions where I am legally required to break
confidentiality, including:

  • If you are a danger to yourself or others

  • If there is suspected child, elder, or dependent adult abuse

  • If a court orders disclosure

Working Mother
Is online therapy as effective as in-person therapy?

Yes, many clients find online therapy just as beneficial. However, in-person sessions may be preferable for those who struggle with focus or privacy concerns.

Can I text or email you between sessions?

For scheduling and administrative matters, yes. However, therapy-related conversations should be kept within sessions for confidentiality and effectiveness.

What should I expect in my first session?

Your first session will be an initial assessment, where we discuss:

  • Your reasons for seeking therapy

  • Your background and history

  • Your goals and expectations for therapy

How long are therapy sessions?

Standard sessions are 50 minutes, but length may vary depending on your needs.

How often will I have sessions?

Most clients start with weekly sessions and may transition to biweekly or monthly as progress
is made.

How long will I need therapy?

The duration of therapy depends on your specific goals. Some clients benefit from short-term
therapy (a few months), while others engage in long-term support.

What if I feel therapy isn’t working for me?
What does your space look like?

If you're curious what to expect when you walk in, here are some images of my office.

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Therapy is a collaborative process. If you feel it’s not helping, we can adjust our approach or explore referrals to another provider who may be a better fit.

What therapy approaches do you use?

I use an eclectic approach, integrating:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Helps reframe negative thought patterns.

  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) – Focuses on emotional regulation and distress tolerance.

  • Mindfulness-Based Therapy – Encourages present-moment awareness.

  • Positive Psychology – Builds on strengths and resilience.

  • Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) – Addresses irrational beliefs and self-defeating thoughts.

  • Strength Based Therapy

Do you offer therapy for trauma?

Yes, I work with female trauma survivors, helping them develop coping strategies and process their
experiences in a safe, supportive environment.

Woman Enjoying a Cup of Coffee
Do you provide therapy for couples or families?

I primarily provide individual therapy for women, teens and girls. However, I can refer you to family or couples therapists if needed.

Do you offer therapy for children?

I work with teens and girls but do not provide therapy for children under 10 years old.

Can I be involved in my child’s therapy?

Yes, for minors, I may involve parents when appropriate while still maintaining the child’s
confidentiality. We will discuss this in the initial sessions.

Can I bring my child to my session if I can’t find childcare?
Playing with Play Dough

For individual adult therapy, I ask that you arrange childcare to ensure you can focus on your session. However, I understand life happens. So, if you can’t find childcare just bring them along (I have coloring books, Legos, and other toys to entertain them)– I understand!

What if I have a crisis between sessions?

If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, please:

  • Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

  • Contact a crisis hotline, such as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Smart Phone Call
Can therapy help with ADHD?

Yes, I work with adolescents and women with ADHD to develop executive functioning skills,
emotional regulation, and coping strategies.

Do you offer faith-based or spiritual counseling?

I respect all belief systems and incorporate spirituality if requested. Therapy is tailored to your values and personal beliefs.

Contact

IL License Number: 180015747

Phone Number: (618) 207-1398

Email: RockRoseCounseling@gmail.com

Address: 4509 N. Illinois Street

                      Suite #2

                      Swansea, IL 62226

Information

Christine E. Benton
Psychotherapist

Biological Sciences, BA

Mental Health Professional Counseling, MA

Licensed Clinical Professional Counseling (LCPC)

Licensed in Illinois - License #180015747

© 2025 by Christine Benton. Website designed by Brooke Stemme with Wix

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