Perspectives Counseling Services, LLC
Frequently Asked Questions
What If My Therapist Isn't Right For Me?
We understand that finding the right therapist matters. The relationship you have with your therapist can play an important role in the therapy process and outcomes, and sometimes a therapist simply isn’t the right fit—and that’s okay.
You can talk directly with your therapist if you feel the fit isn’t quite right, or you can contact our practice at admin@perspectives-llc.com or 217-282-5946 to request a different clinician. We’ll do our best to help you find someone within Perspectives who feels like a better match.
And please, don’t ghost us! If you decide that Perspectives isn’t the right fit either, we’re happy to help connect you with another practice or resource that may better meet your needs. We’d much rather help you find the right support than have you go without it.
How Do I Pay?
We accept most major insurance plans as well as self-pay clients. Current self-pay rates can be found under Payment Options on our website.
For your convenience, we accept most major credit and debit cards. We do not accept cash or personal checks. Sliding scale available and evaluated on a case by case basis.
What Is Your Cancellation/No-Show Policy
We understand that life happens, and sometimes you need to change your appointment. We ask that you provide at least 24 hours’ notice when canceling or rescheduling an appointment. Your therapist has reserved that time specifically for you, and advance notice gives them an opportunity to offer the appointment to someone else who may need it.
Late cancellations: Cancellations or rescheduling requests made with less than 24 hours’ notice are subject to a $100 late cancellation fee.
No-shows: A no-show occurs when you miss your scheduled appointment without communicating with your therapist. If you have not arrived or contacted your therapist within 15 minutes of your scheduled start time, the appointment will be considered a no-show and the session will not take place. No-shows are subject to a $175 fee.
We understand that emergencies and unexpected circumstances happen. If something comes up, please communicate with your therapist as soon as possible.
What Ages Do You Serve?
Across Perspectives Counseling, we work with clients ages 5 and older. However, age ranges vary by clinician. Some clinicians work with younger children, while others may only see clients ages 12+ or adults.
You’re welcome to request a specific clinician, but they may not be able to accommodate the age of the client. If that happens, we’ll help connect you with another clinician in the practice who may be a better fit.
What If I See My Therapist Outside Of Session?
It's a small town. We live and work in the same community, so there’s always a chance you may run into your therapist outside of the office. If you see your therapist in the community, please know that they will respect your privacy and confidentiality.
Your therapist will not approach you, introduce you to others, or acknowledge you as a client unless you choose to initiate the interaction. This is simply part of protecting your privacy as a client.
If you do say hello, your therapist will follow your lead. You never have to acknowledge your therapist or explain who they are to anyone you’re with. No awkward explanations required—we’ll just let you decide what feels comfortable.
We ask that you talk with your therapist before bringing another person into your session. Some clinicians may occasionally allow a friend, partner, or other support person to join a session when it makes sense for the client and the work being done, but this is generally not recommended for individual therapy.
If you are receiving couples or family therapy, additional participants are expected and can attend as part of the therapy process.
If you think having someone join you would be helpful, just talk with your therapist ahead of time so you can decide together what makes the most sense.
Can I Bring A Friend Or Partner?
What If I'm Struggling With My Safety?
We understand that mental health and trauma can sometimes involve thoughts of self-harm, suicide, or other safety concerns. You do not have to be completely “okay” to come to therapy, and we want you to be able to talk openly about what you’re experiencing without judgment.
Your therapist will regularly assess safety when concerns arise and will work with you to identify appropriate supports and next steps. Depending on the situation, this may include creating a safety plan, involving supportive people with your permission when appropriate, coordinating with other providers, or connecting you with a higher level of care when needed.
Our therapists are not an emergency or crisis service, and we cannot provide 24/7 monitoring. If you are in immediate danger or unable to keep yourself safe, call 911, go to your nearest emergency department, or call/text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
Talking about safety concerns with your therapist is always encouraged. You will not be “in trouble” for being honest about what you’re experiencing.
What If I’m Experiencing Domestic Violence Or An Unsafe Relationship?
If you’re experiencing domestic violence, abuse, coercive control, or feel unsafe in a relationship, you can talk about it with your therapist. We will approach the situation without judgment and focus on your safety, autonomy, and individual circumstances.
Your therapist can help you identify safety concerns, explore options, develop a safety plan, and connect you with appropriate community resources. We will not pressure you to leave a relationship or make decisions for you. Instead, we’ll support you in understanding your options and deciding what feels safest for you.
Because safety concerns can sometimes make communication itself risky, let your therapist know if there are ways they should or should not contact you.
If you are in immediate danger, call 911 or go to a safe location. If you need support related to domestic violence, your therapist can also help connect you with appropriate local and national resources.