Frequently Asked Questions

Do I really need Therapy?

Everyone faces challenging times in their lives, and while you may have successfully made it through difficulties in the past, there’s nothing wrong with seeking extra support when you need it.  In fact, realizing your struggle and taking responsibility for making a positive change is to be admired.  Therapy provides long-lasting benefits by giving you additional skills for overcoming your current and future challenges.

What is therapy like?

Each person and situation is different so services are tailored to fit individual needs.  Therapy can be short-term for a specific issue, or longer-term to address difficult behavioral patterns or personal growth.  It is most common to schedule weekly sessions.

It is important to understand that you get the best results from therapy if you actively participate in the process.  The ultimate goal of therapy is to help you take what you learn in session back into your life.  Your therapist may suggest some specific things you can do outside of sessions to enhance the process – such as reading a relevant book, journaling on a specific topic, or taking actions related to your goals.

Is the information I share with the therapist confidential?

Confidentiality is one of the most important components between a you and your psychotherapist.  Successful therapy requires a high level of trust with sensitive information only shared in the therapist’s office.  The therapist will offer you a written copy of the confidentiality policy at your first session and you can ask your therapist questions about the policy before sharing any personal information.

Sometimes you may want your therapist to share information with someone else, but by law your therapist cannot release this information without your written permission.  You will need to inform your therapist if you would like them to provide updates or other information and sign the proper documents before this can happen.

By law and professional ethics therapists are required to maintain confidentiality, except in the following situations:

• Suspected past or present abuse or neglect of children, adults or elders are required to be reported to the authorities, including Child Protection and law enforcement, based on information provided by you or collateral sources.
• If the therapist has reason to suspect that you are seriously in danger of harming yourself or have threatened to harm another person.

Can you bill my insurance?

Collaborative Journey Counseling services are covered by some health insurance carriers.  Due to the complexity of the insurance industry, it is best that you call to verify coverage by your specific plan.  Any fees not covered by your plan are your responsibility.

If services are covered by your plan, you should check with your carrier regarding the scope of your benefits related to copays, if you need pre-approval, a referral from your primary doctor, or if there is a limit on the number of sessions covered.

What types of payment do you accept?

We are happy to bill your health insurance carrier if services are covered by your plan.  Many insurances have deductibles and/or co-pays which are your responsibility.  If you do not have insurance or choose not to use it, you are responsible for the full session fee.

Collaborative Journey Counseling participates with multiple insurance providers. The following are some that are accepted. It’s your responsibility to check eligibility and benefits.

Aetna
Alliance
Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
BadgerCare (BadgerCare Plus) / Forward Health / WI Medicaid, Medicaid SSI
Cenpatico, Managed Health Services of WI
Community Link (formerly ContinuUs)
Dean
Group Health Cooperative of Eau Claire
Medicare
Mulitplan, PHCS, PHCS Savility, Health EOS
My Choice Family Care
Optum / United Behavioral Health / Medica / United Health Care
Quartz Insurance
TRICARE North
WI Physicians Plus & Arise Health Plan

A Sliding Fee Scale based on income is offered by Collaborative Journey Counseling to make therapy affordable for all income levels.

Please check with your therapist regarding all payment arrangements. Session fees and co-payments are due at time of service, unless other arrangements are made in advance.

Cash, credit card or check is accepted for all fees. Minimal $35.00 will be added for all NSF checks.

What if I miss an appointment?

If you do not show up for your scheduled therapy appointment or you have not notified us at least 24 hours in advance, you may be required to pay half of the fee for your missed appointment.  If you miss more than two scheduled appointments or fail to cancel your session without 24 hours advanced notice, you may be terminated from services at Collaborative Journey Counseling.