Insurance
and Costs

Initial intake and diagnostic sessions are billed at a rate of $165 per hour for individuals. Each 53-55 minute adult psychotherapy session after the initial is $150 per session. For couples, the initial intake and diagnostic session is $190, and each 53-55 minute session thereafter is $175. These are the out-of-pocket rates should you choose to engage in therapy without insurance. Clients may pay for sessions by cash, check, or credit/debit card.

I have a limited number of sliding scale openings. These slots are reserved for those with reduced financial means or those facing special circumstances. Fees for sliding scale clients will be determined in conversation with me and will take into account your overall household income.

I am in-network with BCBS IL PPO and Blue Choice PPO, Aetna, United Healthcare, and Cigna. If you plan to use insurance for outpatient therapy, the most reliable way to understand your coverage is to contact your insurance provider directly—either through the online member portal or by calling the number on the back of your card. Ultimately, your insurance provider determines your coverage--that is, what you will be paying for each session. To get an accurate understanding of your anticipated costs, ask your insurance specifically about your copay and coinsurance, whether you must meet a deductible first, whether there is a limit on the number of sessions per year, and whether you need preauthorization or a referral. Every insurance plan varies along these dimensions. If you are interested in working with me, is also important to confirm that Studio Noesis Psychotherapy and/or Rachel Steele is considered in-network.

I also will verify your benefits prior to an initial session. However, only your insurance company can give definitive information about your coverage and financial responsibility.

If you have an insurance separate from those listed above, I am out-of-network with your insurance. When you see an out-of-network therapist, you pay the therapist's full fee at the time of service (see the cost and fees section above). If your insurance plan includes out-of-network mental health benefits, you can then submit a claim to your insurer for partial reimbursement, typically at the end of each month. Again, you can confirm whether you have out-of-network benefits by calling your insurance or logging into your insurance portal.

To be reimbursed for out-of-network services, I can provide you with a superbill at the end of each month, which you will then need to submit to your insurance. A superbill is a detailed receipt that is needed for the reimbursement process and includes the required information, like diagnosis and service codes, dates of service, fees paid, and provider credentials. You will submit the superbill to your insurance company either online or by mail, and if eligible, your insurer reimburses you directly. The amount you will receive back for out-of-network services depends on your plan’s deductible, coinsurance rate, and allowed reimbursement amount.