Sarah Young, LCSW, PLLC

Psychotherapy in Chicago and Throughout Illinois

frequently asked questions

What is therapy?

Therapy involves a collaborative relationship between you and the therapist, with the purpose of guiding you to reach your hopes and goals. This can include processing your experiences to gain a deeper understanding of your own life story, exploring emotions, thoughts, and beliefs, and developing specific skills to address problems and symptoms.

Therapy is a journey of growth and personal discovery. It involves conversation between you and your therapist, in which you set the goals and the pace. Therapy can be beneficial for addressing a range of conditions and life issues, often in conjunction with other resources and services.

How do I choose the right therapist?

It is important to find a therapist who you trust and feel comfortable with. If you are looking to address specific diagnoses, it may be important to identify a therapist with experience and expertise in these areas. Looking at therapist profiles is good initial step. A consultation call with a therapist can help you to find out whether a therapist has experience in the area you are looking for help with and to determine whether the scheduling and payment options match your needs. The initial appointment and first few sessions will help you to decide how comfortable you feel with a new therapist.

What happens in the first session?

The first session involves sharing your story, difficulties, and hopes for therapy. It can include some initial discussion about areas to address first and the best approaches for this. It is also an opportunity to find out how comfortable you feel with the therapist.

How many sessions will I need?

Psychotherapy can last from a few sessions to a few years, depending on your goals and what you are hoping to achieve. At the beginning of therapy, it is helpful to talk with your therapist about your goals and develop a plan together to address them. A few months of therapy can be enough to address short-term concerns, while it will take longer to work through multiple and more complex issues.

Can we meet virtually?

I can meet virtually with clients who are located anywhere in Illinois. I cannot meet with clients who are located outside Illinois. Virtual sessions are conducted online using video. I use the TherapyNotes portal, which is compliant with HIPAA privacy standards.

Do you accept insurance?

Yes, I am in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO plans. I am not in-network with any HMO plans. I can also provide a superbill to facilitate use of out-of-network benefits. When using out-of-network benefits, you would pay $160 at each session and submit the superbill to your insurance for reimbursement.

How much does therapy cost?

When using insurance, your cost per session will be determined by your insurance company and the specifics of your plan. Without using insurance, the cost per session is $160.

What is your cancellation policy?

At least 24 hours’ notice of cancellation is required, or you will be required to pay the session fee of $160. Cancellation fees are not covered by insurance. Longer notice for a cancellation is always appreciated.

Where is your office?

My office is located at 3711 N. Ravenswood Ave. in the Lakeview neighborhood. It is accessible by CTA, including the Brown Line and 50, 9, 80, and 152 buses. There is street parking nearby.

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