Understand Behavioral Health Better with the Provided Information

We have included resources and reading material to help you better understand some of the challenges that may be affecting your family or a loved one!

New Patient Forms

Once an appointment is made, we will email you a confirmation regarding the appointment with your doctor. We will send you a link with our shareable documents by email. These will include: Consent Forms (Consent for Telehealth, Release of Information Consent, Informed Consent for Psychotherapy); Credit Card Authorization; Notice of Privacy Practices; Practice Policies.

We will also need a copy of your Driver’s License and Insurance Card (both sides). We understand that this seems cumbersome, however our billing staff will try to verify benefits, copays, coinsurance, etc. as a service to you. Please note, however, that you have the relationship with your insurance company and are ultimately responsible. We encourage you to verify your benefits beforehand.

We understand that the information appears lengthy; however, it will allow us to spend more time talking with you during your visit and will help expedite accurate and complete claims processing meeting all HIPAA requirements.

The Illinois Notice of Disclosure is available at our office and is also available [ here ].

Know What to Expect at Our Helping Behavioral Health Center in Park Ridge, IL

What can I expect on my first visit and beyond?

The first one to three meetings is considered an assessment. Part of your treatment plan will include sitting down with your psychologist and providing information about the problems/symptoms. Questions about the nature and duration of symptoms, etc. will be discussed. A medical and family history will be taken in order to better understand heredity and environmental variables. A developmental history including medical, social, and academic variables will be important for us to understand the nature of the problem for children and adolescents. Parents will be present for meetings with minor children.

Psychological testing may be indicated in certain situations in order to help us gather important information that may not otherwise be known. If this is the case, we will discuss the purpose and nature of the testing, and how we expect you will benefit from the results. For example, many symptoms of anxiety and attention deficit disorder are similar. Psychological testing can be a tool to help us understand how you process information. This knowledge will be important in your treatment plan.

You and your psychologist will target some symptoms/problems and develop a treatment plan focused on symptom reduction/problem improvement. If you want to use your medical insurance company for reimbursement, they may have their own rules about length of treatment.

The psychologist is trained to use a number of techniques, depending on the symptoms/problems in order to gain the most symptom reduction. You will want to participate in making changes outside of the sessions in order to achieve the most benefit.

It is important to be an active participant, expressing your fears, worries, concerns, etc., even if the feelings are awkward or feel mixed. Failure to do so sometimes leaves us feeling ambivalent about change, but also stuck in the same old rut, feeling angry at ourselves. We can help if you remain involved and committed to the process. Maintaining appointments and participating in payments is validation that you are doing this for you.

Many people will notice an improvement in symptoms and functioning within a few treatment sessions. You will be asked about your progress in each session. It is a misnomer that psychotherapy takes years for symptom reduction. Although each person and their set of problems are unique, the national average number of treatment sessions to resolve symptoms is approximately 11 sessions.* We will work with you based on your treatment plan and progress to decide what is right for you.

*(American Psychological Association)

Insurance Panels

We make every effort to maintain all of our staff on a comprehensive list of insurance panels listed below. We cannot always guarantee the accuracy, however, due to constant changes in the industry. We ask that you verify your benefits and that we are listed on your plan through your insurance company. The plans we are on include:

Advocate BlueCare Direct

Aetna HMO

Aetna PPO

Amita Health

Ascension Resurrection

Blue Advantage

Blue Choice Preferred

Blue Choice Select

Blue Cross – HMO IL Site 124 (Advocate Lutheran General)

Blue Cross/Blue Shield of IL PPO

Blue Precision HMO

MyBlue Plus POS

Cigna Open Access

Cigna POS

Cigna PPO

Magellan Behavioral Heath

Medicare*

MHN

Pathways Behavioral Health Network (AMITA Health/Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health)

BCBS HMO Risk Plans: BCBS HMO-I, Blue Advantage, Blue Precision

HMO & Medicare Advantage HMO

AMITA BCBS Commercial sites #197/488/494/495/496/497/497/499/500

AMITA BCBS Medicare Advantage sites #741/760/761/762/763/764/765

Northwest Primary Care Alliance BCBS Commercial site#280

Northwest Community Health Partners BCBS Commercial site#503

Northwest Community Health Partners BCBS Medicare Advantage site#770

Prime Health Care/ Ascension

United Health Care*

(* Not all providers)

Contact our office today at (847) 823-4444 for more information or any questions that you have.

Woman Holding a Baby and Coffee — Park Ridge, IL — Athans and Associates

Navigating the Fourth Trimester: Recharge with Postpartum Care

The fourth trimester refers to the first three months following the birth of your baby. This period is often overlooked yet is crucial for both mother and child. It's a time of significant physical and emotional changes as the mother recovers from childbirth and adjusts to the demands of caring for a newborn.

Let’s consider several key aspects of this period, from managing weight gain to adapting to new relationship dynamics.

Working with a Counselor

Navigating the postpartum period can be an overwhelming experience for many new parents, with the immense changes in daily life, responsibilities, and emotions. If you're finding it challenging to cope with these transitions, working with a counselor can provide the support and guidance you need during this significant time. Counseling offers a safe space to explore your feelings, develop coping strategies, and strengthen your mental health. Athans and Associates specializes in adult counseling, including postpartum support, and are dedicated to helping individuals adjust to the complexities of parenthood. Their experienced professionals understand the intricacies of this life stage and offer personalized care to ensure you receive the support you need.

Handling Weight Gain

Regular exercise, such as walking or gentle yoga, can also aid in weight and stress management. Movement can also help your body heal. It’s key to listen to your body. If you live in a walkable neighborhood, a quiet stroll around the block might be the perfect starting point. Studies indicate that people living in walk-friendly spaces have an easier time maintaining their weight, plus the fresh air and sunshine are natural mood-lifters.

Gaining weight during pregnancy is natural and healthy, but losing that weight postpartum can be a challenge for many women. It's important to remember that slow and steady weight loss is healthier and more sustainable than rapid weight loss. Adopt a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. However, always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new diet or exercise regime post-birth.

The Impact of High Caffeine Intake

Excessive caffeine consumption can interfere with sleep, which is already a precious commodity for new mothers. It can also contribute to dehydration, which is a critical concern for healing and breastfeeding. Try to limit your intake, especially in the hours leading up to bedtime. Opt for decaffeinated versions of your favorite beverages or consider naturally caffeine-free herbal teas. If you must drink coffee, avoid highly caffeinated options like espresso.

Dealing with Increased Breast Size

Increased breast size is a common occurrence during pregnancy and breastfeeding. This change can be uncomfortable and lead to back pain or other issues if not properly managed. Ensuring you're wearing the right size bra can provide necessary support and comfort.

Challenges with Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding can be difficult initially, and it's perfectly normal to struggle. Lactation consultants or your healthcare provider can offer valuable advice and assistance. Remember, every woman's breastfeeding journey is unique, and there's no one-size-fits-all approach. Patience and perseverance are key, and it's okay to consider alternatives like formula feeding if breastfeeding doesn't work for you.

Tap into Insurance Benefits

Several of the supportive options mentioned, such as lactation consultants and talk therapy, could be covered by insurance. Many insurances also cover things like acupuncture and nutrition consultation. Check with your provider if you aren’t sure. If you don’t know what insurance options you have or need to expand coverage, giving birth is one of the triggers for special enrollment periods. Even freelancers can get insurance, so make sure you have coverage and are taking advantage of supportive care.

Recovering from a C-section Surgery

Healing after a C-section requires time, rest, and proper care. Follow your doctor's advice about wound care, pain relief, and when to start gentle exercise. Avoid lifting heavy items and climbing stairs as much as possible. Listen to your body and give yourself permission to rest and recover.

Digitize Medical Documentation

Between yourself and your new baby, you’re going to have plenty of medical records to keep track of, so it’s a good idea to digitize your documents. That will make them easier to organize – and harder to misplace! There are plenty of free online tools to help, as well to help you change documents online to various formats quickly. For instance, this site could be helpful in case you want to combine a portion of one record with a different one or store it on a device to take with you to your next appointment.

Shifting Relationship Patterns

The arrival of a new baby can bring about significant changes in a relationship. It's a time of joy, but also stress and exhaustion, which can strain even the strongest partnerships. Open communication, patience, and mutual support are crucial. Consider seeking professional help if conflicts persist or if either partner is struggling with feelings of depression or anxiety.

Find Ways to Savor the Fourth Trimester

The fourth trimester is a dynamic and challenging period. But with the right knowledge and resources, new mothers can navigate these challenges and enjoy this special time with their newborn. Remember, it's okay to ask for help and take time for self-care. You're doing a great job, and things will get easier with time.

About the Author

Amanda Henderson is both a mom to two rambunctious boys and preschool teacher, so she knows from experience how quickly a situation can become unsafe. She created and writes for Safe Children to educate parents on how to keep their children safe while also having fun.

[Reprinted with permission]