Frequently Asked Questions

Therapists at Framework Therapy Group are currently in-network with the following insurance providers and/or plans:

-Aetna

-Blue Cross Blue Shield - PPO/Blue Choice Network

-Evernorth/Cigna 

-Optum/United Behavioral Health

Framework Therapy Group is regularly updating the insurance providers we are contracted with. Please check again soon for more updates.

At Framework Therapy Group, we believe in transparent communication about our fees to ensure a clear understanding between the therapist and the client. Please review the following information regarding therapy fees:

• Session Fees: The standard fee for a therapy session is $140 per 50-55 minutes. Intake sessions are $170 per 50-55 minutes. The fee covers the therapist's time, expertise, and resources dedicated to your therapy. This allows our therapists to conduct a comprehensive assessment and establish a tailored treatment plan based on your unique needs. It's important to note that these price points are not necessarily reflective of the cost you would pay for treatment and are instead reflective of the cost billed to insurance providers. Typically, clients that use insurance pay a fraction of the cost of these fees but the actual amount is unique based on your insurance plan. Framework Therapy Group provides free estimates regarding your coverage.  Please contact us for our estimates on pricing or pricing on our other services.
• Payment Methods: We accept payments through our teletherapy platform, TherapyNotes. Payment is due at the time of each session, unless other arrangements have been made in advance.
• Sliding Scale: We understand that financial situations vary, and we are committed to making therapy accessible. A sliding scale may be available for clients facing financial constraints. Please discuss your individual circumstances with your therapist to explore possible adjustments to the standard fee.
• Insurance: Depending on the type of insurance plan you have, we bill your insurance provider directly. However, upon request, we can provide you with a receipt or superbill that includes the necessary information for you to seek reimbursement from your insurance provider
• Cancellation Policy: We require a minimum of 40 hours' notice for appointment cancellations. Late cancellations or no-shows may be subject to a fee. This policy helps us manage our schedule effectively and ensures availability for other clients.
• Fee Review: Periodically, fees may be subject to review and adjustment. Any changes to fees will be communicated to clients in advance.
• Financial Agreements: Prior to beginning therapy, a financial agreement may be discussed and documented, outlining the terms and expectations regarding fees, payment schedules, and any agreed-upon adjustments.
• Fee Questions: If you have questions or concerns about fees, please feel free to discuss them with your therapist. Open communication is essential to ensure that the financial aspect of therapy does not create additional stress.
• Fee Confidentiality: All financial discussions and arrangements are treated with the utmost confidentiality. Your therapist will not disclose information about fees to anyone without your consent.

We appreciate your commitment to your mental health, and we aim to provide a fee structure that supports your therapeutic journey. If you have any questions or need further clarification, please do not hesitate to reach out to your therapist.

The duration of individual therapy sessions at Framework Therapy Group is typically 55 minutes for individual therapy sessions and intake sessions.

At Framework Therapy Group, we believe in transparency and clarity when it comes to the billing process for therapy sessions. Please review the following information outlining our policy on when charges occur:

• Session Fees: Charges for therapy sessions are incurred based on the scheduled appointment time. The standard session duration is 50-55 minutes, and fees are calculated accordingly.
• Ongoing Session Billing: Charges for ongoing therapy sessions are applied at the beginning or end of each session, as per the practice's established billing practices. Payment is due at the time of each session unless alternative arrangements have been agreed upon in advance.
• Outstanding Balances: Clients are responsible for settling any outstanding balances promptly. In the event of a balance exceeding an agreed-upon period, additional arrangements may be discussed to ensure continued therapy services.

We value your commitment to your mental health and aim to provide a straightforward and fair billing process. If you have any questions or need clarification on our billing policy, please feel free to discuss this with your therapist.

You can access the Framework Therapy Group account portal at this link:

 https://www.therapyportal.com/p/frameworktherapy/

Any device with a camera, microphone, compatible web browser, and Internet access is suitable for a telehealth session. All calls use  peer-to-peer connections with end-to-end encryption for maximum privacy and security.

Getting started:

• Be sure that you're using an up-to-date web browser, such as the latest version of Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Apple Safari, or Mozilla Firefox. 
• Make sure that you're connected to a strong, secured Wi-Fi signal. If you're joining a telehealth session on your phone, connect to Wi-Fi instead of using cellular data, if possible.
• Close any applications or browser tabs that you don't need right now. This allows your device's processing power to be dedicated to maintaining a high-quality video call.
• Grab a pair of headphones to use for your session. Using headphones helps to prevent voice echo.
• Have a phone number you can use to call your provider in case you get disconnected.

When you are ready for your session: 

• Log in to your TherapyNotes account.
• Any telehealth sessions that are ready for you to join will appear at the top of your home page. You have the option to join a session for any recent or upcoming appointments scheduled with your practice.
• Click the Join Session button for your appointment.
• Your browser will prompt you to share access to your camera and microphone. Click Allow.
• In the telehealth waiting room, select the Camera and Microphone you want to use for your session. You should see a preview of your video and an audio meter that responds to your voice.
• When you're ready to join your session, click the I'm Ready button.
• Once you indicate that you're ready for your session, you'll connect immediately with your provider if they're ready to go. If not, a waiting screen will appear. Please remain on this screen until your provider joins the session.

In a telehealth session, your video will appear in the upper left  corner of your browser, and your provider's video will appear larger in the middle of the browser. You can disable your camera, mute your microphone, and end the session using the buttons in your control tray.

When a session ends, you'll be taken back to your home page. If you end the session by mistake, you may rejoin the session. To rejoin a  session, click the rejoin the session link in the  banner that appears on your home page. Both you and your provider must choose to rejoin in order to reconnect in the telehealth session. When you're ready to join your session, click the I'm Ready button.

Once you indicate that you're ready for your session, you'll connect immediately with your provider if they're ready to go. If not, a  waiting screen will appear. Please remain on this screen until your  provider joins the session.

You can check the speed and performance of your Internet connection using FAST.com.  For the best quality audio and video, your download and upload rates should be 1.5 Mbps or higher. A high latency (>50 ms, unloaded), which refers to the responsiveness of your connection, could be problematic for your video call. Your unloaded and loaded latency should be similar for the best performance; a significantly higher loaded  latency means that the quality of your call may suffer when your network  is experiencing traffic, such as multiple people trying to download content or browse the web on the same Wi-Fi network. 

If your download and upload rates aren't optimal, try these tips to improve your connection: 

• Avoid using cellular data. If you're using a phone or a cellular-enabled tablet for your telehealth session, make sure that  you're connected to your local Wi-Fi network instead of cellular data. On most devices, you'll see a Wi-Fi icon at the top of your screen when  you're connected to Wi-Fi. Your Wi-Fi network will typically offer better performance than cellular data, and this will also prevent you from exceeding the limit of your data plan.
• Adjust the placement of your router. For the best  performance, your router should be elevated and close to the device  you're using with as few physical barriers between them as possible. Things like walls and floors can block Wi-Fi signals.
• Connect via Ethernet. To maximize performance, try connecting your device directly to your router using an Ethernet cable. Because this forms a direct connection between your device and router, an Ethernet connection is not degraded by the same obstacles that can  block Wi-Fi signals.
• Limit the number of devices connected to Wi-Fi. If you share Wi-Fi with other members of your household, ask them to disconnect during your sessions. Additional devices that are streaming videos or chats simultaneously may cause issues with the quality of your  video calls. A wired connection to your device or theirs will reduce the burden on your Wi-Fi network.
• Contact your Internet service provider. If you're still having trouble maintaining a fast, reliable connection, contact your internet service provider to verify that you're getting the speeds that you're paying for. Your internet service provider may be able to help you  troubleshoot issues with your specific network.

At the Framework Therapy Group, we are proud to have a team of highly qualified and dedicated therapists who are committed to supporting you on your journey to mental and emotional well-being. Our therapists bring a wealth of experience, education, and specialized training to ensure that you receive the highest quality care. Here's an overview of the qualifications our therapists possess:

• Licensed and Accredited: All our therapists are licensed mental health professionals, holding valid licenses in Illinois. Our commitment to excellence means that our therapists adhere to the highest standards of ethical practice and ongoing professional development.
• Advanced Degrees: Our therapists hold advanced degrees in counseling, psychology, social work, or an equivalent degree, demonstrating a strong educational foundation in their respective fields. This academic background equips us with the knowledge and skills necessary to address a wide range of mental health concerns.
• Specialized Training: Beyond formal education, our therapists may have pursued specialized training in various therapeutic modalities or certifications, allowing us to tailor our approach to meet the unique needs of each client.
• Experience Across Diverse Settings: Our therapists bring a wealth of experience gained from working in diverse clinical settings, including private practice, community mental health programs, hospitals, and more. This diverse experience enhances our ability to understand and address a broad spectrum of mental health challenges.
• Commitment to Continuing Education: Staying current with the latest developments in mental health is a priority for our therapists. We engage in ongoing professional development, attend conferences, and participate in training programs to integrate the latest evidence-based practices into their work.
• Compassionate and Client-Centered Approach: Our therapists prioritize a compassionate and client-centered approach. We create a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences openly.
• Cultural Competence: Recognizing the importance of cultural competence, our therapists are committed to providing inclusive and culturally sensitive care. We continuously educate ourselves on diverse perspectives and integrate this awareness into our therapeutic practice.
• Supervision and Consultation: Our therapists engage in regular supervision and consultation to ensure the highest quality of care. This collaborative approach allows them to seek guidance, share insights, and refine their skills for the benefit of our clients.

Choosing a therapist is a personal and important decision. Our team at Framework Therapy Group is dedicated to providing you with the expertise, empathy, and support you need on your path to healing. Feel free to explore individual therapist profiles to learn more about their unique qualifications and specialties.

Unfortunately not. We will eventually be looking to expand our services, but at this moment we can only provide services to people who live in Illinois.

A Good Faith Estimate is an estimate provided by a healthcare provider, including therapy practices, to give patients an estimate of the expected costs for medical services if a patient doesn’t have health insurance. It is intended to help patients understand and plan for the financial aspects of their healthcare.

For therapy practices, a Good Faith Estimate typically includes:

• Service Details: A description of the therapy services to be provided, including the type of therapy, duration of sessions, and any other relevant details.
• Cost Breakdown: An itemized breakdown of the anticipated costs associated with the therapy services. This may include session fees, evaluation charges, or any additional fees related to specific therapies or assessments.
• Insurance Information: If the therapy practice accepts insurance, the Good Faith Estimate may include information about the expected coverage and any out-of-pocket expenses that the patient may be responsible for.
• Billing and Payment Information: Details about the billing process, such as accepted payment methods, billing frequency, and any specific billing policies the therapy practice may have.
• Terms and Conditions: Any terms and conditions related to payment, cancellation policies, or other important financial information.

It's important to note that a Good Faith Estimate is not a guarantee of final costs, as actual charges may vary based on factors such as the patient's specific needs, changes in treatment plans, or insurance adjustments. However, the Good Faith Estimate provides patients with a reasonable estimate to help them make informed decisions about their healthcare.

Missed Individual Therapy Session Policy

We understand that unforeseen circumstances may arise, leading to missed therapy sessions. Our goal is to provide the best possible care to all our clients, and to ensure the effectiveness of our therapy sessions, we have established the following policy regarding missed appointments:

• Cancellation Notice: Clients are required to provide at least 40 hours' notice for any appointment cancellations. This allows us to schedule other clients in need and manage our resources efficiently.
• Late Cancellation/No-Show Fee:In the event of a cancellation with less than 40 hours' notice or a no-show, a $100 fee may be charged. This fee helps cover the costs associated with the reserved time slot that could have been utilized for another client.
• Exceptions for Emergencies: We understand that emergencies and unexpected situations can occur. In such cases, we encourage clients to communicate the situation as soon as possible, and exceptions may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
• Repeated Missed Appointments: Clients who repeatedly miss appointments without proper notice may be subject to a review of their ongoing therapy arrangement. This is to ensure that therapy remains a beneficial and consistent experience for both the client and the therapist.
• Open Communication: We value open communication and encourage clients to discuss any challenges they may face in attending sessions. If there are recurring issues, we are committed to working together to find a solution that best supports the client's therapeutic journey.

Our missed therapy session policy is designed to maintain a fair and balanced approach to scheduling, while also recognizing the individual circumstances of our clients. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in helping us provide quality mental health care.

Therapy sessions can be incredibly versatile and are designed to address a wide range of topics. They're a safe space to explore thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and life experiences. Here are several areas you might consider discussing in therapy:

• Emotions and Feelings: Expressing and understanding emotions is a fundamental aspect of therapy. You can talk about how you feel, what triggers certain emotions, and how they impact your daily life.
• Relationships: Discussing relationships with family, friends, partners, or colleagues can be incredibly beneficial. It might involve exploring communication issues, conflicts, boundaries, or personal dynamics.
• Life Transitions: Major life changes like moving, changing jobs, starting or ending relationships, or dealing with loss can significantly impact mental health. Therapy can help you navigate these transitions.
• Self-Exploration and Identity: Therapy is a safe space to explore who you are, your values, beliefs, strengths, weaknesses, and how these aspects influence your life choices.
• Anxiety or Stress: Understanding triggers, coping mechanisms, and ways to manage anxiety or stress is a common focus in therapy. Learning relaxation techniques and stress management strategies is often part of the process.
• Depression or Sadness: Exploring the root causes, identifying patterns, and finding ways to manage symptoms are vital in therapy. It's about finding tools to cope and strategies for improving mood.
• Behavioral Patterns: Discussing recurring patterns of behavior, whether positive or negative, can help in understanding why they exist and how they might be changed for personal growth.
• Self-Esteem and Confidence: Exploring self-worth, building self-confidence, and understanding how self-esteem affects your choices and relationships can be a key focus in therapy.
• Trauma and PTSD: Addressing past traumatic experiences and their effects on your mental health requires a safe and supportive environment, which therapy can provide.
• Goals and Personal Development: Therapy can help you set realistic goals, explore personal aspirations, and develop strategies to achieve them.
• Other: Most topics of conversation fall within the bounds of what would be considered appropriate during a therapy session. However, your therapist will make you aware if you are approaching any boundaries of what would be considered inappropriate. Sexual harassment or threats of violence against therapists will not be tolerated.

Remember, therapy is a collaborative process. You have the freedom to steer the conversation toward what's most pressing for you at any given time. Your therapist is there to support, guide, and facilitate your journey toward better mental health and personal growth.

Yes, confidentiality is a fundamental aspect of therapy. Therapists are bound by professional ethics and laws that require us to keep everything discussed during therapy sessions confidential. This means we cannot share your information with anyone without your explicit consent.

However, there are a few exceptions to confidentiality:

• Harm to Self or Others: If there's a risk of harm to yourself or others, therapists are legally obligated to take steps to ensure safety. This might involve notifying appropriate authorities or individuals to prevent harm.
• Abuse or Neglect: Therapists are mandated reporters, meaning we must report any suspicion or knowledge of abuse or neglect of children, elderly individuals, or vulnerable populations to the authorities.
• Court Orders or Legal Requirements: In some cases, therapists may be required by a court order or legal obligation to disclose certain information.
• Consultation: Therapists might discuss cases in a general or anonymous manner with supervisors, colleagues, or consultants for professional guidance. However, this is typically done without revealing identifying information about the client.

If your clinician believes an Emotional Support Animal would be clinically necessary for your well-being, your therapist can write an ESA Letter for you. ESA Letters are only written for established patients within our practice. Document preparation is completed at a rate of $100/hour. 

Compliment or Complaint Policy for Patients

At the Framework Therapy Group, we are committed to providing a safe, supportive, and effective therapeutic environment. We value your feedback, whether it's to express appreciation for positive experiences or to address any concerns you may have. Your input is instrumental in helping us maintain high standards of care. Please read the following guidelines regarding compliments or complaints:

Compliments

• Encouraged Feedback: We welcome compliments and positive feedback from our patients. If you've had a positive experience or feel satisfied with your therapy, we would love to hear from you.
• Share Your Positive Experience: You can express your compliments verbally during your sessions, or you may choose to provide written feedback through our secure communication channels. If you are comfortable expressing your feedback publicly, you are also welcome to utilize any online review platform.
• Anonymous Compliments: If you prefer to remain anonymous, we respect your privacy. Anonymous compliments can be submitted in writing or through designated communication channels.

Complaints

• Open Communication: If you have concerns or complaints, we encourage you to communicate openly with your therapist. Your therapist is committed to addressing any issues promptly and working towards a resolution.
• Formal Complaints: If you believe your concerns are not adequately addressed through direct communication with your therapist, you have the option to submit a formal written complaint to our practice. This can be done through designated channels provided by the practice.
• Confidentiality: Your privacy is of utmost importance. All complaints will be handled with the strictest confidentiality. Information related to complaints will be shared only with those directly involved in the resolution process.
• Timely Resolution: We are dedicated to resolving complaints in a timely manner. You will be kept informed of the progress and the steps being taken to address your concerns.

We appreciate your cooperation in providing feedback to help us maintain a high standard of care. Your experiences and insights are crucial in fostering a therapeutic environment that supports your well-being.