I’m new to therapy. What should I expect?
Starting therapy can feel unfamiliar, and you don’t need to know exactly what to say or where to begin. Your first session is a chance for your therapist to get to know you—what’s been difficult, what brings you in, and what you’d like help with. They’ll ask about your background and current concerns, explain how therapy works, and leave space for your questions. You don’t have to share everything at once.
It’s also an opportunity to get a feel for your therapist and whether you feel comfortable working together. As you continue, you’ll identify goals together and explore ways to make meaningful changes in your everyday life. Your feedback is welcome throughout the process.
Do you offer video therapy?
Our practice offers both in-person and video therapy, with availability depending on the therapist. Video sessions are held through HIPAA-compliant video software that can be set up with the help of your therapist. Video sessions are billable through insurance or can be covered with self-pay options.
So I can do virtual sessions from anywhere?
Yes and no. Virtual sessions give you the flexibility to meet with your therapist at home, in your office, or anywhere else aside from our office! However there are two considerations: 1. it’s important that you feel safe to have a confidential conversation wherever you are located. Our session won’t be very helpful or productive if you’re worried someone important is going to overhear what you have to say. and 2. you must be located in the state of Illinois at the time of your session, even if you’re meeting with your therapist virtually!
Can I talk with someone before scheduling my first session?
Absolutely! You can book a free, 20-minute phone consultation online with Rikki, our owner. It’s a chance to ask questions, share what you’re looking for, and explore which therapist on our team might be a good fit. Rikki will call the phone number you provide at your scheduled time.
If you’d rather connect by email, complete our online appointment form. We’ll email you with cost information and help scheduling your first session—no consultation required.
Can’t find a consultation time that fits your schedule? Complete the appointment form, call 708-320-9679, or email intake@healthintandem.com with your preferred days and times, and we’ll help coordinate a call.
How frequently are sessions?
Sessions are typically once per week, yet the frequency can change depending on your ability to independently manage your health. Some clients see us every other week, once per month, or on an as-needed basis. You and your therapist will determine the rate of frequency that is most appropriate for you based on need, availability, and finances.
What insurance plans do you accept?
We accept: Aetna, Allied Benefit Systems, Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO, Blue Choice PPO, Cigna/Evernorth, UMR, and United Healthcare.
As a courtesy, Health in Tandem can contact your insurance company to obtain an estimate of your mental health benefits before services begin. However, the information provided by your insurance company is only a quote and is not a guarantee of coverage or payment. Your benefits and financial responsibility cannot be confirmed until your insurance company processes the claim.
If for some reason we are unable to verify the benefits of your specific plan, you can call the customer service phone number on the back of your insurance card. Tell them you want to find out what you will owe for an in-office (or telehealth) outpatient psychotherapy appointment using CPT Code 90837.
What are your self-pay rates?
If you are not planning on using health insurance for your therapy sessions, our hourly rates vary from $145-$175. Our late cancellation fee is $100 if you cancel your session within 24 hours. This fee is self-pay and cannot be charged to your HSA or billed to insurance.
What is a sliding scale rate?
We believe everyone deserves therapy, regardless of financial status, which is why we offer sliding scale rates based on income. We slide down to $60 per session. We are also happy to supply referrals to other therapists, practices, and agencies who offer lower rates per session than we do.