Frequently Asked Questions
Chicago Compass Counseling FAQ

Yes. We are in-network with BCBS PPO, Blue Choice, and United Healthcare/Optum. We also have contracts with Lyra and Northwestern University. If you would your in-network insurance coverage, then we will do an initial benefits check prior to your first session to determine your payment responsibility.

Yes. Private pay counseling is a desirable option if you value discretion and feel concerned sharing your information with health insurance companies. Our standard session rate starts at $160 per session. We also offer additional concierge options beyond a typical counseling experience to enhance your level of service.

Yes. All clients meet for an initial 80-minute consultation, which includes a collaborative assessment of your current situation, as well an in-depth understanding of your desired goals. At the end of your consultation, your counselor will offer you a menu of options, which will include resources and pathways for those who do not want to pursue further counseling. Our expert behavior change counselors work closely with you to determine the possible directions forward.

Maybe. If your coverage is through an out-of-network PPO, your insurance likely covers out-of-network providers as well. Although this coverage may be at a lower rate, you may be eligible for partial reimbursement for our counseling services, making our counseling sessions more affordable than a fee-for-service arrangement. If you would like to submit claims to your plan, we will provide you with the necessary receipt of services for you to submit after you pay the session fee in full. Your insurance company would then mail you any reimbursement you are eligible to receive. If you would like to submit claims for reimbursement, we highly recommend calling your insurance company before your first appointment to determine your out-of-network benefits.

It might. We want you to make an informed decision about whether or not to use your health insurance. Insurance can make counseling significantly more accessible, but does involve longer-term risk. In order for insurance companies to pay for services,they need a mental health or substance use disorder diagnosis code, which becomes part of your permanent medical record - even in cases where the issue has been fully resolved. In some instances this may affect your eligibility life insurance, disability insurance, or health insurance in the future. If you plan to apply for insurance in the future, we strongly urge you to weigh the pros and cons of using your health insurance for counseling services.

We accept cash, checks, and credit cards, including FSA/HSA cards. In order to schedule, we do place an active credit card on file in order to reserve your appointment time. All payments are due on the date of service.

We find that counseling is most effective when we start with weekly meetings. This continuity helps us move towards your goals more quickly. For some people, meeting more often is useful. Others find that monthly consultations or counseling as needed works best after completing an initial course of weekly counseling. We will always work with you to determine whether the frequency of our meetings is working well for you.