Frequently Asked Questions
What should I expect?
We’ll start with a free 15-minute consult call to ensure it’s a good match (medically stable, within scope of practice, no active SI, etc). Then we move on to an intake session where we get to know you and your story, what you’re struggling with, learn about what’s worked and what hasn’t, and what your goals in counseling are.
*If you are shopping around for the right fit, keep in mind, insurance may not cover multiple initial assessments so we encourage you to utilize the option for a 15-minute phone consult.
How often and how long will we meet for?
It depends…we recommend starting out weekly so that you and your therapist can establish a relationship and then you both can decide what works best based on need and goals. Many clients benefit from weekly or biweekly therapy. But consistency is is key and important for progress. Length of treatment also varies. Therapy will often reach an endpoint once you and your therapist determine you’ve met your goals for therapy. Some clients are seen briefly while other benefit from long-term work.
How are fees and insurance handled?
We are in network with several insurance companies but that may vary by clinician. If we are not in-network with your insurance company, we can offer a superbill. That is a receipt you can submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement-it’s worth asking about as some insurance companies reimburse well for out of network benefits. Based on current clients, we are aware that Centivo, BCBS of IL (for Yuliana), and Cigna reimburse our clients for services. Additionally, each clinician provides a couple reduced fee slots for uninsured or underinsured clients. If you’re in need, let us know and hopefully we can figure out a way to help. Please see our Insurance and Rates Page for more details.
Know that if you choose to use insurance or submit a superbill, we are required to provide a diagnosis and your insurance company is entitled to your medical records.
We require all clients keep an active card on file. Once the first EOB is returned and we know the the amount due for sessions, the card on file will be charged at time of service going forward.
Is couples therapy covered by insurance?
Traditional couples therapy is not covered by insurance. Billing insurance requires a diagnosis and medical necessity and the code we use, Z63.0, is often not a covered service. Additionally, many clinics have seen clawbacks for couples therapy; therefore, you must opt out of utilizing insurance to work with our clinicians for couples therapy at Orenda. Fortunately, this allows us to do the good work without constraints or limitations! There are very few exceptions when billing insurance may be considered. In this case, the treatment plan must focus on the diagnosis of one individual rather than traditional couples therapy.
Can I start with individual therapy and have my partner join later?
We typically advise you have a separate couples therapist from your individual therapist so if you begin with a therapist for individual therapy, we will suggest you connect with a different couples therapist. This helps avoid bias and maintain a therapeutic alliance with both people involved.
Do you offer virtual therapy?
Yes, all of our therapists do offer virtual therapy but you must be in the states of WI, IL (for Sarah only), or MO (for Kristine only). We cannot see you for therapy if you are on vacation, away at college, or any other reason you might be out of the states mentioned. Please be sure you have a confidential space for your virtual therapy session.
Who might be a good fit for Orenda?
Clients who are motivated and committed to doing the work in therapy are likely a good fit for our clinicians at Orenda. We see treatment as collaborative and it requires active effort.
Who might not be a fit for Orenda?
Orenda is a small psychotherapy practice and we do not have other medical providers (psychiatry, psychologists, doctors, etc) on staff to oversee care. Client must be stable in order to remain in care at Orenda and is that changes during the course of treatment, clients may be referred for a higher level of care or an alternative referral may be provided. We may not be the best fit for severe mental health issues, active suicidal ideation, or substance use disorders.
What if I’m not meshing with my therapist?
Let us know! We are all open to feedback and if it still feels a bit too uncomfortable, please reach out to Sarah Gracz at info@orendacounselingservices.com or 414-662-4149 to chat through some options. We totally get that not everyone is going to be a fit and whether that is at Orenda or elsewhere, we will help you find the right fit for you.