What can I expect from the initial consultation?

It is important for Behavioral Health Center of Illinois to allow individuals, families, nonprofit organizations and corporations to make informed choices about their treatment options. We value consumers and their rights in healthcare and what is best for them. We believe that individuals have the right to choose the best options for them. There are many resources important to educate our communities and make available to others. What works for you may or may not work for another individual. Our philosophy is discussing what will work for you and understanding the issues at hand, process of treatment services, outcome and practicing the research and strategies that have proven to be successful in research among multiple sources.

Does going to therapy mean that something is wrong with me?

No, this is not necessarily an accurate assumption. For example research show us that 99.9% of people have been depressed at some point in their lives. The truth is that we are human beings and life can be profound and complex. The human condition is one that is ongoing and allows us to understand the depth of our experiences.  The stigma attached to behavioral healthcare services is one that is longstanding and makes it difficult for us to participate freely in simply understanding who we are. The truth is that the stigma is changing and it is quite common for people to seek out treatment similar to seeking out any other healthcare services. That said, psychotherapy is a unique process in itself that can be discussed in more detail during initial consultation.

What is psychotherapy like?

Psychotherapy provides you with an opportunity to examine thoroughly the problems with which you are struggling, and it may lead to important changes. Although most people who engage in psychotherapy benefit from the process, there are no guarantees. Psychotherapy often leads to improved relationships, solutions to specific problems, significant reductions in feelings of distress, and an improved ability to enjoy life. Progress in psychotherapy may vary depending on the particular problems being addressed, number of different approaches that can be utilized to address the problems you hope to address. It can depend on such factors as your motivation and effort, as well as life circumstances. To be successful, psychotherapy requires a collaboration between the patient and the therapist.

During the course of psychotherapy and as part of the process of change, you may also experience uncomfortable feelings. These feelings are an important part of the psychotherapy process and often serve as a catalyst for further understanding and growth. It is important for you to bring up with your therapist any concerns you have about the process as it unfolds. If at any time you would like to have the opinion of another professional or seek treatment elsewhere, we will refer you to another qualified mental health professional. You may discontinue psychotherapy at any time.

What can I expect from an initial evaluation?

We normally conduct an initial evaluation that may last one to three sessions. During this time, we can both decide if the therapist is the best person to provide the services that you need in order to meet your treatment goals. During this period, you should evaluate whether you feel comfortable working with them. Therapy involves a large commitment of time, energy, and money, so you should make an informed choice about the therapist you select. If psychotherapy is begun, we will schedule one or more 50-minute sessions per week at a time we agree.

How do I find a psychologist and what do I need to know to make an informed decision about treatment options?

APA.org Help Center for Consumers; Psychology Today

Is medication a substitute for therapy?

In some cases a combination of medication and therapy is the right course of action. Working with your medical doctor can determine what's best for you. It is well established that the long-term solution to mental and emotional problems and the pain they cause cannot be solved solely by medication. Instead of just treating the symptom, therapy addresses the core of our distress and the patterns of behavior that hinder our progress. You can best achieve sustainable growth and a greater sense of well-being with an integrative approach to wellness.

Do you accept insurance? How does insurance work?

To determine if you have mental health coverage, the first thing you should do is check with your insurance carrier. Review your coverage carefully and find the answers to the following questions:

•  What are my mental health benefits?
•  What is the coverage amount per therapy session?
•  How many therapy sessions does my plan cover?
•  How much does my insurance pay for an out-of-network provider?
• Is approval required from my primary care physician?