BlueCross and BlueShield PPO Aetna (POS / PPO-type plans) Out of Network** (when available) Sliding scale options may be available for those who qualify

Avg Cost (per session): $150-165 Limited sliding scale sessions available Out of pocket payment also available if insurance is not used

Cash Check Ivy Pay (Secure Credit Card Processing)

Taking the first step on a new path to improved mental health can make some clients nervous. For some, establishing a therapeutic relationship may be one of the most difficult aspects of treatment. We at SafeSpace have created this Q & A to break it down one step at a time and make this transition easy for you. Setting up your appointment is very similar to what you would expect from any healthcare provider. Before your first session, you will be sent paperwork to enter into our system. Forms will include information regarding our practice procedures and consent for treatment. Filling out the forms is simple, straightforward, and can be completed online. You will receive an email with detailed instructions for these forms. When it is time to come visit us for your first session, you will find a comfortable waiting room that is open for you 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment. Please feel free to help yourself to snacks or water while you wait for your therapist to introduce herself. There is no need to check in, but please fill out a COVID-symptom checklist while you wait. When you initially meet your therapist, you will be able to get to know her and get a feel for the interpersonal connection. You do not have to open up with your deepest secrets upon meeting your therapist. Feel free to take your time to get comfortable by talking about your favorite restaurants, activities, or television shows. The first session or two are likely more structured than usual as your therapist will be gathering general background information in order to get a better understanding of who you are and how you have gotten to where you are in your life. Your therapist will want to understand why you are seeking treatment and any other important information you feel comfortable sharing. Then, when you feel ready, you and your therapist will discuss what you’re looking to get out of therapy and set goals of treatment.

Once a treatment plan has been established you will begin working on your goals with your therapist. Most clients attend treatment once a week, although this varies depending on need and availability.

Most sessions last about 50-60 minutes.

There is not a one-size-fits-all answer to this question. For some, therapy is a short term journey, others might have a longer path. That being said, both you and your therapist will usually know when you are approaching the completion of your current therapy journey. There is no right or wrong time, as wounds heal in their own time. Remember, though, that we are here for you throughout this process, whatever it may look like.

Confidentiality is a requirement of mental health professionals on both a state and national level. Therapists are bound by law to keep information discussed within sessions, as well as the fact that the client is attending sessions, private. A Release of Information form can be requested by a client at any time should the client choose to have their therapist discuss their treatment plan with other health care professionals. This Release may also be rescinded at any time with a signature from the client. There are rare cases when your therapist may be required to break confidentiality. The most common cause for breaking confidentiality occurs when the therapist feels that the client’s safety is at stake. If a client intends to act on life-threatening plans, their therapist will typically seek a higher level of care for their client in order to advocate for their needs and ensure their safety. Other situations that would require a therapist to break confidentiality include the intent to harm others, or abuse of children or elder populations.

In the State of Illinois, Social Workers and Counselors often work side by side, like we do here at SafeSpace. Both can work with a wide variety of clients to help reach therapeutic goals. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in prescription medication for psychological health. A psychologist in a group practice usually has a doctorate and specializes in assessments and psychological testing. Together, although we all specialize in slightly different things, we aim to work together to provide the best possible, most well-rounded care for clients.

Most therapy sessions are held within our office space, however, telehealth options are available for our clients who are restricted from attending in-person sessions for any reason. If a client prefers to meet with their therapist online, we recommend checking with your insurance provider to be sure of coverage prior to each session. Your therapist will send you an invitation to our telehealth platform via secure text or email to ensure encrypted private sessions online.

At SafeSpace our motto is “Theory Grounded in Expert Practice.” Our therapists are licensed professionals trained to accompany you on your journey toward mental wellbeing and maintenance of that wellbeing. All of our staff therapists are supervised by Deborah Kozlowski, LCSW, a skilled psychotherapist with decades of experience in the field. We uphold our name, SafeSpace, by providing our clients an intimate sanctuary, free of judgment at all times. We pledge to meet you right where you are, and to support you on your wellness path to wherever it is you choose to go.