Make an Appointment: intake@peoplepsych.com | 312-252-5252

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Choosing to see a therapist can be a difficult decision, but we believe that it is a rewarding one.  Therapy should be a positive experience from the start, let us help you feel more comfortable with your decision  Below are some commonly asked questions by those who are considering therapy or counseling services.  We know this is not an exhaustive list, so please let us know any additional questions you have.

To schedule an appointment, you can contact one of our specific therapists directly by phone or email or call us at (312) 448-7218.

Is PeoplePsych taking new clients during the coronavirus pandemic?

Yes, we are taking new clients! Life isn’t waiting for things to return to normal, why should therapy?

During the ongoing coronavirus/COVID public health crisis we are conducting most sessions (with both new and existing clients) via teletherapy.via a secure HIPAA compliant video platform.  Although mental health appointments are considered an essential service, we believe that the socially responsible decision is to actively engage in social distancing to reduce the spread of the virus and the demand on our healthcare providers.   Telephone and/or video sessions can seem intimidating or off-putting for some, but we work to make sure that the experience is as similar to our traditional sessions as possible. We encourage those interested in giving it a try during these uncertain times to reach out to us to learn more about our services.

As we continue to adjust to everyday life with the coronavirus, some of our therapists have opted to see some some clients in person at one of our easily accessible offices in Chicago’s loop with appointments available days, evenings, and weekends. Please check out our COVID-19 page for more information.

How much does therapy cost?

Your costs can vary.

Our regular session cost is varies from $150 – $135 per session. Some opt to use their insurance benefits so the cost of therapy can vary depending on what your insurance expects you to pay. We are in-network for all regular BCBS PPO and Blue Choice PPO plans. In addition, PeoplePsych bills other PPO plans directly to access the out-of-network coverage as a courtesy but those clients are responsible for the balance of the billed session not covered by insurance.

More information about the cost of services and insurance coverage is available here or contact us for more information.

Do you have to be crazy or not functioning to go to therapy?

The simple answer is no – everyone can benefit from seeing a therapist. Therapy is a means of providing ongoing support and intervention to help the individual, couple, or family deal with or change personal and private issues and problems that they have not been able to satisfactorily handle on their own.

Therapy is MOST effective when a person can actively engage in the process and take steps toward healing. In other words, although it is never too late to go to therapy, therapeutic intervention effectiveness is enhanced for those who chose to address things early versus once things are spiraling out of control.

Is therapy about blaming others or not taking responsibility for myself?

Although we may focus on the origin of issues that can involve others, this only serves to provide a deeper level of insight and understanding which allows you to resolve past issues and move forward. Acknowledging the past, both the good and bad, in therapy can actually help build the desired relationships in your life.

The change that occurs through therapy is truly the result of understanding the issue while taking appropriate personal responsibility and implementing change.

How is a therapist different than talking to a friend?

Although therapists are generally friendly, approachable, and caring people – the relationship you have with your therapist is different than the relationship you have with your friends.

Talking to a therapist is a targeted conversation about your issues and your life. A therapist can be objective in a way that no friend or family member can, as the therapist’s role in your life is simply to assist you in feeling better and functioning at a higher level.

Ideally, your friends want the best for you, however they are connected and personally invested in the decisions you make; therefore, it is impossible for them to be objective. Your therapist’s sole focus in the interaction is you, your goals, your intentions. Other than serving the client effectively, there is no direct impact on the therapist.

What if I can’t talk for a full hour?

It is the therapist’s job to put you at ease so that you can talk. Most clients say that the therapy hour (50-55 minutes) tends to go very quickly. We focus on what you want to talk about, plus there are no visible clocks to watch. It seems to surprise people how easy it is to get lost in the conversation.

Will PeoplePsych therapists complete disability, court, or work-related assessments or treatment?

As a rule, PeoplePsych therapists do not participate in disability or court-related assessments or treatment – including issues related to child custody. These are specialized services, and those looking for such therapeutic intervention are advised to seek an appropriate clinician.

The same is true for employer-related referrals or communication. Direct communication with employers is not conducted by PeoplePsych therapists.  And, under no circumstances do PeoplePsych therapists complete FMLA paperwork or other employer related letters for those that are not long-term established clients.  Additionally, for those established clients in need of FMLA paperwork, there is often an additional charge.

Don’t therapists get bored listening to others’ problems all day?

No, we don’t get bored. And it’s not the client’s job to entertain us.

We truly enjoy our jobs and each of our clients. It is a joy finding out about people, and how they work. Valuing the relationship and person that we are working with is intrinsic in our work.

As your therapist, it as an honor that you chose to share your life with us.

Is Online/Telehealth available?

As appropriate, and in an effort to best support our clients, we do offer sessions via a HIPAA-compliant telehealth platform called Doxy.  This service can be especially useful and clinically appropriate for many clients, who are otherwise unable to meet in our offices.

This type of service is not clinically appropriate for every client.  Online/telehealth clients must be based in the state of Illinois and at least an initial office-based session is generally required prior to establishing an ongoing online/telehealth arrangement.

For those using insurance, sessions are often a covered service and our Clinical Coordinator will endeavor to verify coverage for those clients who wish to use the service.

Is it a sign of weakness to go to therapy?

It sounds cliché but admitting that you need help is the opposite of being weak and is the first step to feeling better. We believe that everyone can benefit from therapy.

Who will know I am in therapy?

The therapist-patient relationship is strictly confidential and is defined by professional ethics and privacy laws. We do not reveal any information – even that you are a client – without specific written permission from you. Unless you instruct your therapist or the office otherwise, we will never tell anyone that you are in therapy or a client of ours; you are in complete control.

We make every possible effort to ensure the privacy and confidentiality of our clients. More information is available on our HIPAA/Privacy statement or from your therapist.