Step 1 —Assessment
The first step is a complete assessment of the problem. Clients participate in a detailed and comprehensive interview about past and present problems with anxiety, panic and related conditions. They are also asked to fill out a variety of questionnaires designed to help determine exactly what triggers the problem and identify the symptoms. Then, there is a series of non-invasive tests that measure the extent of a client's physical reactions to controlled stress and help determine the nature and extent of the problem. Clients are also required to have a comprehensive physical examination with their own medical doctor.
Step 2—Treatment
The Anxiety and Panic Treatment Program uses a treatment method called cognitive-behavioral therapy. The problem is broken down into its major components. Components include the trigger event or situation, the client's thought process, his or her physical symptoms and the actions or behaviors that follow. The client then learns how to identify and control each component. This approach has helped thousands of people with anxiety disorders enjoy more comfortable, productive and satisfying lives.
Occasionally, therapy in our program is not the best form of treatment. When this is the case, referrals to other, more appropriate programs will be made.
How long does treatment take?
Effective treatment requires that each client have a highly individualized plan for treatment, follow-up and after-care. Because every client is different, the number of treatment sessions will vary. Many problems can be treated in 12 to 20 sessions.
How Much Does It Cost?
Psychotherapists in The Family Institute Staff Practice set their fees individually based on their levels of training and expertise. (Discuss fees with the Intake Coordinator and your therapist prior to the first visit.) Services at reduced fees are provided by Northwestern University doctoral students, under the close supervision of highly-experienced Family Institute staff psychotherapists. Fees for doctoral students are set on a sliding scale, according to the client's ability to pay.
Also, qualifying clients who volunteer to participate in anxiety-related research can receive treatment at no cost. Click on ‘Research' at left for more information.
How Do I Make an Appointment?
If you think that you or someone you know suffers from anxiety or panic disorders, or if you would like additional information, please call The Family Institute at 847-733-4300. If you are calling for an initial appointment, please dial 0 and ask for the Intake Coordinator.