About Debra Shepard
Focus areas
Addiction / Substance Abuse
Depression
Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit
Anxiety
Gambling Addiction
Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Psychotherapy
Clientele seen
Young adults (18-24)
Individuals
Adults (25-64)
Seniors (65+)
Treatment approaches
Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)
Motivational Interviewing
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Dialectical (DBT)
Identity
Gender
FemaleLanguages spoken
English
Getting to know Debra Shepard
Debra Shepard is an Illinois Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years of clinical and supervisory experience, including a past role as director of substance use treatment for a community mental health agency, and she also works with clients on gambling and sports betting addiction. She has worked in private practice for many years, with a clinical focus that includes addiction, and has also worked on a substance use treatment unit at a psychiatric hospital and in the crisis unit of an emergency department. Debra was an adjunct instructor with Fordham University's online social work program, teaching courses in addiction as well as assessment and diagnosis, and was selected as a subject matter expert to write test questions for the CAADC exam. She holds a Master's in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago and an undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. A career changer, Debra previously worked as an attorney in juvenile court and legal aid. She is compassionate but direct, and utilizes a holistic, strength-based approach.
What should a new client know about working with you?
Specializing in process and behavioral addiction treatment, with an emphasis on gambling and sports betting, Birches Health offers individual, group, and couples therapy tailored to each client's unique needs. Recognizing that every recovery journey is distinct, the team is committed to providing personalized care to help clients achieve their recovery goals with confidence. During the intake process, Birches Health takes time to thoroughly assess each person's needs, focusing on the root causes of their challenges, and to create a personalized treatment plan. The Birches Health team prioritizes convenience, security, and comfort, delivering fully virtual sessions through a trusted, HIPAA-compliant video platform.
Is this doctor in your insurance network?
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In-network insurances
Aetna
BlueCross BlueShield
Cigna
UnitedHealthcare
Out-of-pocket fees and assistance
Initial session: $150 for 60 minutes
Ongoing session: $125 for 60 minutes
- Files your insurance claim: You pay the session fee upfront and the provider files the claim for you, so you can get reimbursed directly without worrying about the paperwork
Education and background
Practice names
Education and training
- Loyola University School of Social Work, Master's in Social Work
- University of Michigan (Bachelor's)
NPI number
1477092328
How soon can I make an appointment with Debra Shepard?
Generally, Debra Shepard has appointments available on Zocdoc within 1 week. You can see Debra Shepard's earliest availability on Zocdoc and make an appointment online.
Is Debra Shepard accepting new patients?
Debra Shepard generally accepts new patients on Zocdoc. You can see Debra Shepard's earliest availability on Zocdoc and schedule an appointment online.
Does Debra Shepard accept my insurance?
Choose your insurance plan to verify if Debra Shepard is in-network.
Can I make an appointment with Debra Shepard online?
Yes, you can make an appointment online with Debra Shepard using Zocdoc. It’s simple, secure, and free.
What practice does Debra Shepard work with?
Debra Shepard works with Birches Health.
What are common reasons for patients to see Debra Shepard?
Debra Shepard frequently sees patients for Anxiety, Depression, Psychotherapy, Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit, and Therapy. You can see other visit reasons for Debra Shepard on their profile.
What languages does Debra Shepard speak?
Debra Shepard speaks English.