Frequently Asked Questions

Common Questions

How do I schedule an appointment?

Please call our intake coordinator, Kate Fiello, LCSW, at 773-525-3322 or use our contact form. Kate will call you back, ask you questions, and match you with a therapist based on your schedule, fee requirements, specific problems, and personality. You can also also contact our therapists directly to set up an appointment.

How much will therapy cost?

We base our fees on the therapist’s level of training and experience. Full fees range from $110-$210 and our licensed therapists offer some sliding fees.  Our externs and fellows have lower fees based on financial need. We will work with you to find a fee that feels comfortable.

We do not verify income in order to receive sliding scale fees.  We encourage you to pay nearest to the full fees as you are able with the recognition that fees are also used to subsidize access for those with less financial capacity.

Do you take insurance?

All of our therapists accept Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO of Illinois, and some of us also accept Blue Choice PPO, Cigna, Aetna, and United Health Care.  If you are out of network for a particular therapist, we will provide necessary out of network billing documentation, if offered by your insurance providers so you can get  reimbursed. For information about your coverage, please call your insurance company and ask about your mental health coverage, your deductible, and your co-pay.

What are the differences between counseling, psychotherapy, social work, and pharmacotherapy?

Lakeview Center’s therapists have degrees in psychology, social work, or counseling, but we all use a similar approach. Pharmacotherapy is the use of medication, typically in combination with talk therapy. Our nurse practitioner affiliates provide medication and coordinate closely with our therapists.

What will happen at my first session?

When you first meet, you and your potential therapist will interview each other to see if the two of you are a good fit. You will be charged for the session. Ask your therapist questions about their style and approach. Your therapist will ask about your current problems and your history. At the end of the session, she or he will make recommendations about the kind therapy you might need and will discuss fees and schedule.

How do I choose a therapist?

You may want to interview more than one therapist if you aren’t sure you feel comfortable with the first therapist you meet.  Feeling a sense of a good fit between you and your therapist is most important, so don’t hesitate to ask for another session or a referral to another therapist if you’re not sure.

How long will I need to come to therapy? And how often?

The answer to these questions depends on the types of problems you have. Typically, therapy lasts for a minimum of several months. We recommend you begin therapy by coming at least once a week, while you and your therapist get to know each other. You and your therapist will decide together how often to meet and when to end therapy.

When is group therapy recommended?

Group therapy is a great place to explore how you relate to others. If you are experiencing conflict in relationships, problems with emotional intimacy, or if you are feeling isolated and alone, group therapy can help. Group therapy is also an affordable alternative to individual therapy.

Can I call for a friend or adult family member who needs therapy?

Feel free to call us for a consultation about your friend or family member. While the decision to start therapy is up to that individual, you can help them find  information about therapy options. It may also help to come in for a few sessions yourself to get support and guidance in coping with the problems of your loved one.

What is the structure of Lakeview Center for Psychotherapy?

We are a collaborative group of made up of therapists in private practice. We meet regularly as a community to support and enrich each other’s work. You can see more than one therapist in our practice in order to met your specific needs.

What are your website privacy policies?

To read our full website privacy policy click here: Privacy-Policy-Lakeview Center.

If you have other questions, please feel free to call us at 773-525-3322 for a consultation or use our online contact form.

How does psychotherapy work?

Learn about the three reasons psychotherapy is effective in this short video!