A psychologist (or therapist) typically focuses on talk therapy and behavioral interventions, while a psychiatrist prescribes medication. It may be beneficial to see both a therapist and a psychiatrist to address different aspects of treatment. It depends upon your individual needs and preferences. Here at Brightland Health we have the best psychiatrists and the best therapists in the Chicago area.

It may be a good idea to seek psychiatric treatment (medications) if you are experiencing symptoms such as persistent sadness, hopelessness, mood swings, difficulty concentrating, or changes in sleep. Additionally, if you are struggling with issues such as trauma, relationship problems, or difficulty adjusting to a major life change, therapy can provide the support and guidance that you may need.

During your first appointment with a therapist or psychiatrist, you can expect to discuss the concerns you have about your current situation. It may feel uncomfortable at first to talk about your feelings. We will help you feel safe and supported. At the first appointment your therapist or psychiatrist will likely perform a diagnostic assessment, which may include asking you questions about your mood, thoughts, and behavior. They may also explain the therapeutic process and schedule future follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

Whether you will be seen in-person or virtually for your psychiatric appointment or your therapy appointment depends on the current situation and the preference of our mental health clinic. Often your first visit will be in-person. Virtual appointments (Telehealth) are conducted via video conferencing, and allow you to receive treatment from the comfort of your own Home.

The length of time it takes for a psychiatrist or therapist to diagnose you can depend on the complexity of the situation. Often during your first visit, your psychiatrist or therapist will diagnose you with a DSM 5 condition. Examples include: Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Major Depressive Disorder (Depression), Generalized Anxiety Disorder (Anxiety), Panic Disorder (Panic Attacks), or Bipolar Disorder (Mood swings). Your assessment may include a review of your past and present symptoms, psychiatric history, and medical history. The process can take anywhere from one appointment to several appointments spanning a few weeks.

Typically, the initial evaluation or “intake” is 50 minutes for both therapy and psychiatry. The subsequent visits or “follow up” appointments are 20 minutes for psychiatry and 50 minutes for therapy.

The length of treatment for mental health conditions varies depending on the individual symptoms, and response to treatment. Some individuals may experience improvement within a few weeks or months, while others may require long-term treatment.

We can try. You may call member services; the number is located on the back of your insurance card for a more thorough explanation.

In-network:

An in-network provider has a contract with your insurance company allowing you to use health insurance to help pay for your appointment. We are In-Network with Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO, Blue Choice PPO, Aetna PPO, and United Behavioral Health PPO.

Out-of-network:

An out-of-network provider does not accept your health insurance. You may still see them, pay the self pay rate and receive a superbill. You can use the superbill to submit to your insurance for potential reimbursement.

Deductible:

The amount of money you will pay out-of-pocket for health care before your insurance company starts to help you out.

Co-pay:

A co-pay is a set amount of money you may owe for a visit.

Co-insurance:

Co-insurance is a percentage of the total amount that you may owe for a visit.

It is a good idea to check with your insurance company to understand your benefits before you schedule an appointment with us. At Brightland Health we are in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO, Blue Choice PPO, Aetna PPO, and United Behavioral Health PPO. If you have one of these two insurance plans, we encourage you to book a psychiatry visit or therapy session with us. Insurance companies will likely cover part of the cost of the visit. You are responsible to pay your copay, co-insurance, or deductible. Please understand that you might still be responsible to pay for your entire visit.

Hopefully your medications are covered by insurance. Sometimes they are not and can be authorized. You should ask your pharmacy and insurance company to submit a "Prior Authorization." After that they should contact us for help getting the medication approved. Unfortunately, some medications are not approved by insurance companies even after the Prior Authorization has been completed. If that is the case please contact your prescriber to get an alternative medication. Please be patient. It can take up to one week to get approval and we do our best to expedite the process but it is ultimately up to them.

Yes. You may call for self-pay rates and schedule your psychiatry appointment or therapy session at Brightland Health.

If you receive a statement, bill, or EOB (explanation of benefits) you may have questions about it.

Our psychiatry providers are here to give you the best possible care. You might see a “Therapy” or brief “Psychotherapy” code on your statement from the insurance company.

According to standard billing practices, a supportive psychotherapy add-on code (90833) refers to a billing code that is used in addition to a primary medication management service code (99213 or 99214) to indicate that brief supportive psychotherapy was provided during the same visit. Brief supportive psychotherapy includes anything from psychoeducation (giving information about your mental health condition, diagnosis, or treatment) to emotional support, encouragement, or guidance.

Keep in mind that this “therapy” add on code is not the same as traditional therapy. It is just a billing formality and it allows psychiatry providers to offer brief therapeutic guidance in addition to medication management.

We are here for you and will always support you. If you have any questions or concerns do not hesitate to reach out to our billing team. 312-796-7121.

A psychiatrist can:

-Psychiatrists are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and more.

-Psychiatrists are doctors who are authorized to prescribe medication to manage your symptoms. They can help you find the right medication and dosage to meet your individual needs. Physician Assistants also prescribe medications.

-Your psychiatrist can work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan based on your individual needs and symptoms. This may include medication, emotional support, lifestyle changes, and other interventions.

-Your psychiatrist will monitor your progress over time and adjust medications as needed to ensure that your treatment plan is working effectively.

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Brightland Health psychiatry providers can give you the support and treatment you need to manage your mental health concerns and improve your overall well-being.