Frequently Asked Questions about Have Dreams’ Counseling Services
Are Have Dreams’ Counseling & Employment Services right for me?
Our clinical services support individuals on the autism spectrum. If you or your child are looking to build your social and communication skills, learn how to develop and maintain relationships, explore career direction and build your soft skills, pursue and prepare for employment, work on managing stress and symptoms of anxiety and depression, learn how to advocate for yourself, find greater acceptance of your autism, build executive functioning skills like staying organized and managing time effectively, or plan for longer-term goals, our services will be a great fit! We also provide parent education and support around new diagnosis. If we are not the right match, we have a large referral network and would be happy to connect you with another provider.
Clients will be most successful if they have access to their own or to a parent's email account and to a computer in a private, quiet area; can independently (or with parent support for children) sustain focus on a computer-based activity for up to 60 minutes; and have basic computer and internet skills including website navigation and typing (with parent support for children, if needed).
What can I expect in my first session?
During the initial session, we’ll discuss expectations, policies, and your goals. From there, we’ll work to develop a plan to help you progress toward your goals.
How many sessions will I need?
This varies from client to client. When we begin working together, we will identify short- and long-term goals. When these goals are met, you may be ready to conclude counseling sessions.
Will we meet in person? How long do sessions last?
Sessions are now being conducted remotely via telehealth (video call), but we hope to offer in-person sessions in the future as well. Virtual sessions typically last 60 minutes.
How can I pay for services?
We are an in-network provider with Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO, Blue Choice and Cigna. For all other insurance providers, please contact the insurance company to verify the coverage they will offer. We can provide a superbill to submit to your insurance company as you explore coverage. Clients can also opt to pay for services out of pocket.
Will my information be kept confidential?
Confidentiality is at the core of the therapeutic relationship between client and counselor. However, there are a few exceptions. By law, therapists are required to report child abuse or neglect as well as the abuse or exploitation of an at-risk elder or the imminent risk of abuse or exploitation. Additionally, therapists are required to report clients if they determine that the client is a danger to themself or others. There may be other exceptions to confidentiality as provided by HIPAA regulations and other Federal and/or Illinois laws and regulations that may apply.
What if I’m not my own guardian? How are parents/guardians involved?
Sessions are conducted one-on-one, meaning just the client and the counselor are present. In some cases, parent or guardian involvement may be helpful and we can provide information about general progress without giving specifics. Parents/guardians will be immediately informed about situations that can endanger the client or others. For children, parent support during sessions may be necessary.
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