Your Most Commonly Asked Questions
on therapy, psychiatry, & psychological testing
Your Questions About Care, Insurance, & Clinicians
Do you accept insurance for therapy and psychiatry (and all other services you offer)? Yes, in order for you to get the best possible care for your individual needs, we accept in-network and out-of-network insurance plans for all services. *Please note that the only insurance we don’t accept is Medicaid. Here are our in-network insurance provider plans: Aetna Blue Cross Blue Shield IL HMO (Limited Site Numbers) Blue Cross Blue Shield IL PPO Blue Choice PPO Canopy EAP Cigna First Health HFN Humana Medicare Magellan / APP (Advocate Physician Partners Only) Medicare (No Advantage Plans) Mercy Physicians Partners Multiplan / PHCS Northshore Physician Associates Pathways PNOA PPO – HMA Velocity National Provider Network United Healthcare / UBH / Optum
If my insurance isn’t in network, will you still take it? Yes, even if your insurance is out-of-network, we still work with you to get the care you need. The only out-of-network insurance provider we don’t accept is Medicaid. If you choose to self-pay, we can provide a good faith estimate before your visit.
Do you verify my insurance before my visit? Yes, we verify your insurance before your visit and review your benefits as stated by your insurance company. Please note that benefits given by PRA are an estimate based on information obtained from your insurance company and not a guarantee of coverage.
Do you offer in-person and Telehealth appointments, and can I choose which one I prefer? Yes, we offer both in-person and Telehealth appointments. Please let the front desk know which one you prefer when you make your appointment. *Please note that if your clinician feels it’s clinically necessary to see you in person, you may be required to come into the office.
You have so many therapists, psychiatrists, and clinicians – how do I know I’ll be matched with the right one for me? Based on your individual history and current needs, we work hard to match you with the best counselor, psychologist, and/or psychiatrist. Our goal is to ensure they’re compatible with what you’re struggling with for the best possible fit. If you have a specific provider in mind, please let the front desk know upon scheduling your appointment.
I got a call from PRA saying I have a deductible and co-insurance. What does that mean? Insurance terms can feel super confusing. Here’s a quick breakdown to help make it easier: Deductible: This is the amount you have to pay out of pocket for covered services before your insurance starts helping out. Your deductible usually resets each year. (Some plans have both an individual and family deductible, and mental health services might count toward both.) Co-Pay: This is a set dollar amount you pay at the time of your visit — like $20, $40, etc. It’s kind of like a “ticket” for your appointment. Co-pays can vary depending on your insurance plan. In-Network vs. Out-of-Network: In-network providers have a special deal with your insurance, meaning they usually cost you less. Out-of-network providers don’t have that agreement, so they’re often more expensive. Co-Insurance: After you hit your deductible, you might still share the cost with your insurance. For example, if your insurance covers 80%, you’ll pay the remaining 20%. Maximum Out-of-Pocket: This is the most you'll have to pay for covered services in a year. Once you hit this number (including deductibles, co-pays, and co-insurance), your insurance covers 100% of your covered healthcare costs for the rest of the year.
I see two different clinicians at PRA, but when I log into the Patient Portal, I don’t see a balance – even though the front desk says I owe. What’s going on? Good question! Here’s what’s happening: Each clinician has their own separate portal. That means you’ll need to log into a different portal for each provider you see – they aren't combined into one account. If you’re missing a login for one of your clinicians, you can request it here by choosing “Request Access to Patient Portal” as the subject. Just be sure to list the provider(s) you want access to. Heads up: Each portal will have a different username, but your email will stay the same across all of them. Need help? We’re happy to walk you through it!
What are the requirements for in-person sessions? Is my therapist or prescriber vaccinated? Yes, all of our therapists and prescribers are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. If you're coming in for an in-person session, we ask that you either be vaccinated or wear a mask during your visit. Some therapists or prescribers may require unvaccinated clients to meet through telehealth instead. This helps keep everyone safe – and as a bonus, telehealth lets us better see your facial expressions, which is an important part of therapy! If you have any questions about what’s best for your sessions, just let us know. We’re here to help.
What’s the difference between the Telehealth Link and the Patient Portal? You can’t access telehealth through the Patient Portal. Here’s what to know: Telehealth Link: Click the yellow Telehealth Link on our website (above the top navigation). Find your provider’s name and click the link next to it. That’s it – you’ll go straight to their virtual waiting room. Please note that the link is the same for every session. Patient Portal: Needs a username and password. Shows your upcoming appointments, billing info, and statements. Each provider you see will have their own separate portal with a different username (your email stays the same). Need portal access for another provider? Fill out the Contact form and we’ll send you a link to set it up!
Starting Therapy Can Feel Big. That’s Why We Make it Simple.
How do I know if therapy is right for me? If you’re even asking this question, therapy is probably worth exploring! Therapy isn’t just for people in crisis – it’s for anyone who wants to understand themselves better, work through challenges, or improve their mental well-being. If you’re feeling stressed, anxious, overwhelmed, or just need someone to talk to, therapy could be a great option.
How long does therapy take? It depends! Some people start feeling better after just a few sessions, while others find long-term therapy helpful for ongoing support. Your therapist will work with you to figure out what makes the most sense for your goals. Therapy isn’t about rushing – it’s about getting what you need at your own pace.
Do I need to see a therapist if I’m not sure what’s wrong? You don’t need to have everything figured out before starting therapy. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or just not like yourself, talking to a therapist can help you understand what’s going on and give you tools to feel better. You deserve support, even if you’re not sure why you need it yet.
Can therapy help if I’m already on medication? If you’re on medication, therapy can be a great way to get extra support and explore deeper healing. Medication can help with symptoms, but therapy helps you work through challenges, develop coping skills, and create lasting changes. Many of our patients find that a combination of both gives them the best results.
What if I don’t know what to talk about in therapy? That’s totally okay! Your therapist will help guide the conversation. Sometimes, just showing up and talking about your day can lead to deeper insights. Therapy is a space where you don’t have to have all the answers – you just have to be willing to explore.
Will my therapist tell anyone what we talk about? No. Therapy is confidential, which means what you share stays between you and your therapist (with a few exceptions, like if there’s a risk of harm to yourself or others). It’s a safe space to be completely honest without fear of judgment or your personal information being shared.
How do I find the right therapist for me? Finding the right therapist is like finding the right pair of shoes – it should feel like a good fit. It’s okay to meet with a few therapists before deciding. Pay attention to how comfortable you feel talking to them and whether they understand your concerns. If it doesn’t feel like the right match, don’t be afraid to try someone else.
Child & Teen Therapy:
From Their First Session To Ongoing Support
How do I know if my child or teen needs counseling? It's natural for your child or teen to face ups and downs, but certain signs might prove they could benefit from extra support. Look for changes like persistent sadness, withdrawal from friends or activities they once enjoyed, sudden school/academic troubles, or noticeable shifts in behavior or sleep patterns. If these challenges persist or interfere with daily life, it might be time to consider counseling.
What should we expect during my child’s first counseling session? The initial session is primarily about getting to know your child and understanding their needs. The counselor will likely ask about your child's history, current concerns, and any relevant family dynamics. Depending on your child's age and comfort level, you might be present for part of this session. It's a chance for everyone to build rapport and set the stage for future sessions.
How involved will I be in my child's therapy? Your involvement can be crucial to the therapy's success. While younger kids might benefit from more parental participation, teens often need a balance of parental support and personal privacy. Our therapists typically keep you informed about general progress, and may offer guidance on supporting your child at home, all while respecting your child's confidentiality.
How long does child and teen counseling typically last? The duration varies based on your child's unique needs and the goals set in therapy. Your child or teen may see improvements in a few sessions, while others might benefit from visiting their therapist for several months. We always encourage parents to have regular discussions with the therapist, as they can provide clarity on progress (and any adjustments to the treatment plan).
How can I support my child or teen during the counseling process? Being supportive and open is key. Encourage your child to share their feelings without pressure. Maintain open communication, reinforce positive changes, and consider implementing any strategies the therapist suggests at home. Your active participation can make a significant difference in their therapeutic journey.
Your Most Common Questions About Couples Therapy, Answered.
Is it normal to feel nervous or embarrassed about needing couples therapy? Yes, it’s common to feel this way. Most couples don’t come to therapy because things are “fine” — they come because they care enough to try. Feeling nervous just means it matters to you. And we’re not here to judge, we’re here to help you get back on track together.
What if my partner doesn’t want to come? That’s a common roadblock. Sometimes one person is ready before the other. If you’re feeling stuck, come on your own to start. We can help you figure out how to talk to your partner in a way that makes them feel less defensive and more open to the idea.
Are we too far gone for couples therapy to help? We hear this one a lot – and the answer is, probably not. Even couples who feel totally disconnected or stuck in constant conflict can make progress. The key is being willing to try, even if it’s messy or awkward at first.
Will the couples therapist take sides? No. Your therapist’s job isn’t to pick a winner – it’s to help you both feel heard and understood. We’re here to help you understand each other better, not to blame or shame either of you.
What if we argue in front of the couples therapist? Honestly, that’s okay. Real couples argue. And therapy is a safe space to work through that – not avoid it. We’ll help slow things down, get to the root of what’s really going on, and show you a different way forward.
What kind of things do we even talk about in couples therapy? Anything that’s affecting your relationship. Communication struggles, trust issues, parenting stress, intimacy, resentment, you name it. We help you unpack it in a way that feels manageable, not overwhelming.
What if couples therapy just makes things worse? It’s a valid fear – but more often, therapy brings clarity. Sometimes things feel more intense before they get better, but that’s just part of facing what’s been buried for a while. The goal isn’t to make things perfect – it’s to make them honest, workable, and connected.
Everything You’re Wondering About Group Therapy.
What if I’m nervous to talk in group therapy? That’s more common than you think – many people feel anxious before their first session. You won’t be pressured to speak before you're ready. Simply showing up and listening is a powerful first step, and over time, you’ll find it easier to open up.
Will other people really understand what I’m going through? Probably more than you’d expect. Group therapy brings people together who have shared experiences, even if their stories are different. Many participants say the biggest surprise is how seen and understood they feel – sometimes for the first time in a long time.
What if I get emotional or cry in group therapy? That’s okay. Emotions are welcome in group therapy, and often part of the healing. It’s a space where you can be real, without having to hide or hold it together. Everyone’s there to support one another, not judge.
Can I do group therapy and individual therapy at the same time? Yes, absolutely. You might find that the two complement each other. What you explore in group can deepen your individual work, and vice versa.
What if I don’t “click” with the group? It’s important that you feel safe and supported. If the group isn’t the right fit, we’ll work with you to explore other options – including different types of groups or therapists. Your comfort matters to us.
How do I know if group therapy is right for me? If you’re feeling isolated, stuck, or like no one really gets what you’re going through, group therapy might be exactly what you need. It offers a space to connect, grow, and realize you’re not alone – all at your own pace.
How Family Therapy Can Help (Even if Everyone’s Not Ready)
What if only some of us want to come to family therapy? That’s completely normal. Not everyone may feel ready at the same time – and that’s okay. A therapist can still help you start the process, even if just one or two family members show up at first.
Does going to family therapy mean we’re “broken”? Not at all. Families need support for all kinds of reasons – big and small. Therapy isn’t about fixing what’s broken, it’s about learning new ways to understand each other, communicate, and grow stronger together.
What if we argue in a family therapy session? It happens, and that’s okay. Your therapist is trained to help navigate tough moments in a way that’s respectful and safe, so no one feels blamed or shut down.
How long will it take to see change after starting family therapy? Every family is different. Some notice shifts after just a few sessions, while others need more time. What matters most is that you’re showing up and doing the work – that alone is progress.
Will the family therapist take sides? No. Your therapist is there to support the entire family. Their goal is to create a balanced, nonjudgmental space where everyone feels heard and respected.
What if we’ve tried family therapy before and it didn’t work? That’s valid – and frustrating. But every therapist, and every approach, is different. We’ll meet you where you are and find what works best for your unique family dynamic.
What Does a Psychiatrist Do? (And Other Common Questions)
What is a psychiatrist? A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (MD) or doctor of osteopathic medicine (DO) who specializes in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions. They’re trained to look at both the mental and physical aspects of psychological issues. Unlike other mental health professionals, psychiatrists can prescribe medication and may also offer therapy, but their main focus is usually on biological treatments, like managing medication for things like depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and more.
What’s the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist? Psychiatrists and psychologists are both mental health professionals, but they have different roles and training. Psychiatrists are medical doctors (MD/DO) who can prescribe medication and offer medical treatments for mental health issues. They’re trained to look at the biological, neurological, and psychological sides of your mental health. Psychologists, on the other hand, usually have a doctorate in psychology (PhD or PsyD) and focus on therapy, counseling, and psychological testing. They can’t prescribe medication, but they help with talk therapy and work through emotional and behavioral challenges. Both psychiatrists and psychologists can team up to give you a full range of care, with therapy and medication management when needed.
What can I expect during a psychiatric evaluation? A psychiatric evaluation is usually the first step when seeing a psychiatrist. During this session, your psychiatrist will ask about your mental health history, any current symptoms you're experiencing, and how they’re affecting your day-to-day life. They'll also take a look at any medical conditions or medications you’re on that could be related to your mental health. With all this info, the psychiatrist will create a treatment plan just for you, which could include medication, therapy, or both. The evaluation is thorough, but it should feel more like a relaxed, open conversation where you're working together.
What types of mental health conditions do psychiatrists treat? Psychiatrists treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including but not limited to: Anxiety Disorders Depression ADHD OCD Bipolar Disorder PTSD Schizophrenia Substance Use Disorders Psychiatrists may also treat less common conditions like personality disorders or psychotic disorders. Treatment often includes a combination of medication and therapy, depending on your unique needs.
How do I know if I need medication or if therapy alone can help me? Whether you need medication or just therapy depends on your symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment goals. Some mental health conditions can be managed with therapy alone, while others might need medication to help with symptoms. For example, depression, anxiety, or ADHD often benefit from both therapy and medication, while things like mild stress might be managed with therapy alone. During your first evaluation, your psychiatrist will help figure out the best treatment plan for you based on what you need.
How often will I need to see a psychiatrist for medication management? How often you need to see a psychiatrist for medication management can vary. At first, you might need to see them every 4-6 weeks to check how the medication is working and adjust the dose if needed. Once you have a stable treatment plan, follow-up visits might be less frequent, maybe every 3-6 months. But your psychiatrist will keep an eye on your progress and adjust your treatment as needed.
What if I don’t want to take medication? If you’re not comfortable with taking medication, it’s important to talk openly with your psychiatrist. Medication isn’t the right choice for everyone, and there are other treatment options like therapy, lifestyle changes, and holistic approaches. Your psychiatrist will work with you to figure out what you prefer and create a treatment plan that fits your goals and gives you the best options.
Can a psychiatrist help with stress management? Yes! Psychiatrists can definitely help with stress management, especially if stress is making things like anxiety or depression worse. Along with managing medication, your psychiatrist can suggest coping strategies, relaxation techniques, and lifestyle changes to help you handle stress. If needed, they might also work with a therapist who specializes in stress-reduction techniques like mindfulness or cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).
Is medication the only treatment psychiatrists offer? No, medication is just one part of your treatment plan. Psychiatrists offer a variety of options, including psychotherapy (talk therapy), or they can refer you to a licensed therapist. They might also suggest lifestyle changes like better sleep, exercise, or nutrition to support your mental health. In some cases, they may work with other specialists to create a well-rounded approach to your care.
What is the difference between an MD and a DO doctor? Psychiatrists are physicians/medical doctors (MD’s or DO’s) and their primary focus is to provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for those individuals needing a biological approach to treatment, along with therapy. DO’s are Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine – they are physicians but got their training through a program that focuses on holistic medicine and emphasis on achievement of normal body mechanics as central to maintaining good health. Today, the training of osteopathic physicians is virtually identical to that of M.D. physicians. Osteopathic physicians use all conventional methods of diagnosis and treatment, but are trained to place additional emphasis on the achievement of normal body mechanics as central to maintaining good health. D.O. physicians receive training in Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM), a form of manual therapy shown to be of some benefit for patients with certain musculoskeletal disorders.
Is Psychological Testing Right For You? Here Are Your Answers.
Do I really need psychological testing? What if I’m just overthinking things? It’s totally normal to wonder that. But if you’ve been feeling off – like you're stuck in your head, can’t focus, or can’t quite explain why things feel so hard – psych testing can help you make sense of it all. It’s not about labeling you; it’s about getting answers that actually help.
What exactly happens during psychological testing? You sit down with a licensed psychologist who walks you through a mix of conversations and assessments – nothing scary, just tools to check out how things like your memory, emotions, or attention are working. It’s all about putting the pieces together so you get the full picture.
Will the psych testing results be kept private? Yes, absolutely. Everything stays between you and your care team unless you say otherwise. You’re always in control of who sees what.
How long does the psych testing process take? It depends on what you’re coming in for. Some tests wrap up in one session, others take a few. Your psychologist will walk you through the plan so you know what to expect from the start.
Is psychological testing only for diagnosing mental illnesses? Not at all. While it can help diagnose something, it’s also super useful for learning how your brain works – your strengths, challenges, and how you process things. It’s just as much about growth as it is about getting answers.
Can I prepare for the psychological test? No need to study or stress. Just come in rested and be yourself. Trying to “ace” it could actually make it less helpful, so honesty and comfort are key.
What if I disagree with the psych testing results? That’s okay! Testing is a starting point, not the final word. Going over everything and talking through any questions or concerns you might have is our goal. It’s all about figuring things out together.
“How Can a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Help Me?”
How do I know if I really need to see a psychiatric nurse practitioner? If you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, exhausted, or just not like yourself – reaching out can be the first step toward relief. You don’t have to be at rock bottom to deserve support.
What’s the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychiatric nurse practitioner? Psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners can both diagnose mental health conditions and prescribe medication. The main difference is in their training backgrounds – but when it comes to your care, psychiatric nurse practitioners provide the same compassionate, expert support you need to heal.
Can a psychiatric nurse practitioner diagnose me? Yes, psychiatric nurse practitioners are licensed to diagnose a wide range of mental health conditions – from anxiety and depression to bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, and more – so you can finally get clarity on what’s been making life so hard.
Will I have to take medication if I see a psychiatric nurse practitioner? Not at all. Your treatment is always a conversation, never a command. If medication might help, your nurse practitioner will explain your options carefully, but the decision is 100% yours.
What if I’m nervous about starting medication? It’s completely common to feel nervous. We walk you through everything – how the medication works, possible side effects, and what to expect. We also stay connected with regular check-ins, so you never feel alone in the process.
How long will it take to feel better? Everyone’s journey looks a little different, but you’ll leave your first session with a real plan – and ongoing support to adjust as needed. Healing is not instant, but you won’t be doing it alone.
Will my psychiatric nurse practitioner work with my therapist or doctor? Absolutely. We believe in whole-person care – and more often than not, it means collaborating with your therapist, primary care physician, or any other provider you trust.
Let’s Get Your Questions Answered.
..so real healing can happen.