FAQ
Q: How long will my therapy session last?
A: Sessions are 50 – 60 min, but the course of therapy is tailored to each individual depending on the specific concerns they’d like to address.
Q: Do you accept my insurance plan?
A: We accept most insurance plans, including
• Blue Cross/Blue Shield PPO
• Aetna
• Magellan
• Cigna
• Humana
If you have questions regarding your insurance coverage, contact our office manager Anna at 773-414-4577 or email Anna@psychotherapychicago.com.
Q: How do I schedule an appointment?
A: Book a session online or call us at 773-414-4577. We’ll get back to you quickly and can often see new clients within 1 – 2 days.
Q: What can I expect in my first therapy session?
A: It is natural to feel nervous or emotional at the first session, particularly if you are not used to talking about yourself – but our therapists will help you quickly feel comfortable. After filling out the initial paperwork, you will be asked what led you to therapy at this time, your background information, and your goals.
Q: Are you like the online companies BetterHelp and Talkspace?
A: Unlike these large national companies, PAC is local, selective, and community-based. Our therapists are also independent contractors, but we don’t bring on every therapist who applies. Instead, we look for clinicians with both clinical skill and the warmth to connect meaningfully with clients. We are also a part of your local community, living in the same Chicago neighborhoods. You will be meeting with someone from a curated community of trusted professionals who share values of compassion, quality, and dedication. nervous or emotional
Q: I’m a mental health practitioner and interested in working with PAC. What do I need to know?
A: For more than 20 years, PAC’s primary function has been to provide a platform of support for 1099 independent contractors. We initially worked exclusively with psychotherapists, but have broadened out to include psychiatric nurse practitioners. We take care of the essentials that can weigh clinicians down: filing claims, insurance paneling, payment reconciliation, marketing, scheduling software, office space, and connections to the community. In short, PAC handles the logistics so your skills can shine.
Many clinicians choose PAC because it allows them to do their best work without losing autonomy. You can work exclusively at home or at the office. You set your own schedule, decide your therapeutic approach, work directly with your own clients- and you will never have to attend a team meeting again. You maintain full control of your practice and can even work at PAC while maintaining another clinic or practice affiliation. At the same time, you’ll have the directors available for consultation/case discussion and a dedicated office manager offering professional support. You’ll be independent but not alone.
In addition to serving independent practitioners, PAC also trains a small number of early-career therapists who practice under supervision. This limited training track expands access to affordable care and invests in the next generation of clinicians. Still, the heart of PAC will always be supporting its network of independent, licensed professionals. Feel free to reach out to us if you want to learn more.