DISTANCE COUNSELING
Distance counseling is the delivery of counseling services by a licensed mental health professional via secure video, phone, chat, email or other technology mediums.
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Chicago Counseling and Mediation Services
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a time distance counseling will not work effectively?
While distance counseling is an appropriate mechanism for the delivery of services, there are times when distance counseling may not be appropriate. This includes counseling for clients in crisis or for those with chronic or severe conditions and symptoms. The potential for distance counseling will first have to be evaluated by the treating counselor.
Is distance counseling legal?
Yes. Distance counseling is recognized and regulated by many state licensing boards. At this time, to assure legal compliance, the online counselor must be licensed in the state you reside in. Dr. Ivankovich is licensed in Illinois and holds a Distance Counseling Credential.
Is distance counseling secure?
Yes. Security is assured by using Skype for online counseling activities. Skype uses SSL (Secure Socket Layer encryption). SSL is the standard security technology for establishing an encrypted link between a web server and a browser. This link ensures all data passed between the web server and browsers remain private and integral. SSL is an industry standard and is used by millions of websites in the protection of their online transactions with their customers.
Is distance counseling covered by Insurance?
Some commercial insurance plans do not cover distance counseling services. Since 2004, distance counseling may be reimbursable through Medicare, Medicaid and a growing number of insurance plans. Clients may submit receipts for online counseling directly to their insurance companies for possible reimbursement although there is no guarantee that it will be covered. It is suggested that you contact your insurance company directly to verify the reimbursing for distance counseling.
How much does it cost for a counseling session?
Since most private insurance companies do not yet consider distance counseling a reimbursable health expense, all payments are made by the client directly to the office. Payments are to be made prior to the commencement of each session. The cost is $60.00 per session for those sessions lasting 45-50 minutes. Payments are made by credit card. We accept Visa and Mastercard.
What technology do I need to do distance counseling?
Are counselors licensed/credentialed?
Yes. Dr. Karla Ivankovich holds a Distance Credentialed Counselor certification and is licensed in the State of Illinois. Similarly, all of the counselors/therapists in our office are licensed by the State of Illinois to practice in each of their specific disciplines. Those working with clinical interns should be aware that interns are closely supervised by a licensed professional as required by law.
How do I make an appointment?
From the website, go to the “Book Appointment” page. This will take you to the intake form which should be completed (the insurance section can be skipped since this is a cash pay service up front). Once completed and submitted, we will receive an email and will contact you back to schedule your first appointment. You must also complete and send the “Distance Counseling Consent form which is found by clicking on this link. After the initial session, you will coordinate appointments with your therapist directly.
Cancellation Policy
We understand that other things arise throughout any given day. As such, we do not adhere to the standard 24 hour cancellation policy for distance therapy. It is our policy that any appointments needing cancelled must be done so no later than 12 hours prior to the appointment. Appointments that are not cancelled within the 12-hour window will be charged a $50 cancellation fee.
How do I meet my counselor on the day of my appointment?
On the day of your appointment, allow 5-10 minutes before your scheduled time to get onto your computer. Please be logged into Skype and show yourself as available. Your counselor will contact you via Skype at the start time of your appointment.
How do I make an appointment?
During the initial call to schedule your appointment, we will obtain your credit card information and will bill your credit card prior to your scheduled appointment. If for some reason you are unable to make the appointment or need to cancel, your fee will be used for the next scheduled appointment.
What times are available for appointments?
Appointment times vary depending on the availability of the therapists. Given that distance counseling does not require travel or being present in the office, times are likely to be much more flexible.
YOUR MIND IS A POWERFUL THING.
WHEN YOU FILL IT WITH POSITIVE THOUGHTS YOUR LIFE WILL START TO CHANGE.
- Dr. Karla Ivankovich
