Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

Where are you located?

We are located on the north side of Chicago, in the Andersonville/Ravenswood area. We are accessible via public transportation, and the building has free parking.

How do I know which therapist and type of therapy is right for me?

The therapeutic relationship is the most important factor in any successful treatment. When you speak with an intake therapist, they will help you determine which services may be the best fit for your needs, as well as any preferences you have for a therapist. Once you begin with your therapist, you play an important role in deciding if it is the right fit for you! Open communication is vital to the treatment process, and we encourage you to discuss any concerns you have about the therapy process with your therapist.

What does the process of starting therapy look like?

All treatment begins with an assessment period, the first 3-5 sessions of treatment . This phase of treatment allows us to gain an understanding of what brings clients in for help, who they are, who they have been, and who they want to be. We ask a lot of questions during this phase! It also allows us to conceptualize what is going on, what led up to it, and how to help in the form of a treatment plan. Your therapist will talk with you throughout the assessment phase, and will share their thoughts about how best to help. Your therapist will work collaboratively with you to best help you and your family – you are an important part of the process, and communication about how things are going is vital to successful treatment.

Billing Questions

What is the cost of therapy?

Our full fee rates for therapy services range from 130 to 225 an hour, depending on the credentials and experience of the therapist. The first two sessions are billed as “Intake Sessions,” for which the cost range is 150-250. Therapists may also be offer services at a reduced rate. When you speak with an intake therapist, they will discuss rates with you.

How am I billed?

When you begin services, our billing specialist will verify your insurance coverage plan, and inform you of your mental health benefits. You will be charged weekly for any fees you owe. All major credit cards and debit cards are accepted for payment. We are happy to provide you with receipts for payment upon request.

Which insurance plans do you accept?

Rooted Connections is “in network” with Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Illinois PPO /Blue Choice of Illinois. If you choose to use your insurance to pay for sessions, we will submit claims to BCBS.

How do I know if Rooted Connections is in network?

Although our billing specialist will verify your mental health coverage plan, we strongly recommend that you contact your insurance company prior to starting services, so you know what to expect.

What if RCC is “out of network” with my insurance?

If you have another form of insurance, your insurance may cover a portion of the cost for therapy. If this is the case, you will pay for services directly to RCC, and we will provide you with a monthly “superbill” that you can then submit to your insurance provider for any reimbursement.

What is your cancellation policy?

When you schedule an appointment, we reserve a time just for you, and plan around this time. We ask that our clients also hold the session time in their schedule, and inform their therapist if they need to cancel as soon as possible. We have a 24 hour cancellation policy, meaning that if clients do not show for their session, or cancel with less than 24 hours notice, you will be charged in full for the session.

Who can I talk to about my billing?

If you have billing or insurance questions, please contact our billing specialist, Emma Howard, at billing@rootedconnectionscounseling.com, or extension 2018 from our main number.

Good Faith Estimates for self pay (out of network clients):

As of January 1, 2022 all medical and healthcare professionals, including Rooted Connections Counseling (RCC)  clinicians, are required to provide a Good Faith Estimate (GFE) for all current and new clients that outlines the expected cost of treatment. The GFE requirement under the No Surprises Act aims to give clients and consumers a clear sense of what upcoming health care services will cost. This is required for mental health professionals who provide services to people that are uninsured or people who are insured but chose not to use their insurance benefits to pay for healthcare services (private pay clients).

If you are a self-pay client, RCC will provide you with a Good Faith Estimate (GFE) in writing prior to your first session, and will additionally provide this estimate upon request. If you receive a bill that is substantially higher (more than $400) than estimated on your GFE, you can dispute the bill. It is recommended that you save a copy of your GFE.

For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit: www.cms.gov/nosurprises

You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate from RCC

Connect with us! You may not be sure if this is the right time for treatment, or if we are the right fit. We are happy to talk with you about that – please call our intake line or complete the online contact form.