Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How can I schedule an appointment?
A: You can schedule an appointment by calling our office or emailing hello@cerebrumil.com. Our intake team will help you identify a suitable time based on provider availability and your scheduling preferences.

Q: Who do you work with?
A: Lipin Psychology provides psychotherapy and assessment services to adolescents age 12 and older and adults. We do not currently see children under 12.

Q: What conditions do you treat?
A: Our practice focuses on anxiety disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia spectrum disorders, trauma and PTSD, depression, and co-occurring substance use concerns. We also support individuals navigating life transitions, academic and occupational stress, and relationship difficulties.

Q: What therapeutic approaches do you use?
A: Treatment is evidence-based and tailored to each client. Primary approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI). Treatment planning is collaborative, and approaches are selected based on the presenting concern and client goals.

Q: Do you offer in-person and telehealth appointments?
A: Yes. We offer both in-person sessions at our Lake Zurich office and secure telehealth sessions for clients located in Illinois. Telehealth is conducted through a HIPAA-compliant platform. Your provider will discuss which format is clinically appropriate at intake.

Q: What should I expect at my first appointment?
A: The initial appointment is a diagnostic intake lasting approximately 60 minutes. Your clinician will review your current concerns, relevant history, treatment goals, and any prior mental health care. By the end of the session, you and your clinician will discuss initial impressions and a proposed treatment plan.

Q: How long are therapy sessions and how often will I be seen?
A: Ongoing psychotherapy sessions are billed under CPT codes 90834 (38 to 52 minutes) and 90837 (53 minutes or longer). Session length is determined based on clinical need, treatment goals, and the complexity of the work being done in that session. Initial diagnostic intakes are typically 60 minutes. Frequency is determined collaboratively and most clients begin with weekly sessions, transitioning to biweekly or monthly as clinically appropriate.

Q: How long does treatment typically last?
A: Treatment length varies based on the nature and severity of concerns, treatment goals, and individual response. Some clients benefit from short-term work of 8 to 16 sessions, while others engage in longer-term treatment. Progress is reviewed regularly and the plan is adjusted accordingly.

Q: Do you provide psychological testing or evaluations?
A: We incorporate targeted psychological testing when it supports diagnostic clarification or treatment planning for general clinical concerns, including symptoms of anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and related presentations. Testing is used selectively rather than as a primary service, and results are integrated into ongoing care. We do not currently provide forensic evaluations, custody evaluations, disability evaluations, or comprehensive neuropsychological testing. Referrals can be provided for these services.

Q: Do you conduct substance use evaluations?
A: Yes. Dr. Lipin holds a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) credential in addition to his licensure as a clinical psychologist and provides substance use evaluations for adolescents and adults. Evaluations can address diagnostic clarification, treatment planning, documentation for employers, schools, courts, or licensing bodies, and recommendations for appropriate level of care. Please indicate the purpose of the evaluation when scheduling so we can allocate appropriate time and provide any required documentation.

Q: What payment options do you accept?
A: We accept most major PPO insurance plans, Medicare, and self-pay. Please provide your insurance information when scheduling so we can verify benefits prior to your first appointment.

Q: Do you accept HMO or Medicaid plans?
A: We do not currently accept HMO plans or Medicaid. Clients with out-of-network benefits through a PPO plan may be eligible for partial reimbursement. We can provide itemized statements (superbills) on request.

Q: What are your fees for self-pay clients?
A: Self-pay rates are available upon request and are discussed at the time of scheduling. If you are uninsured or choose not to use insurance, you have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate of expected costs under the No Surprises Act.

Q: What is a Good Faith Estimate?
A: Under the federal No Surprises Act, uninsured and self-pay clients have the right to a Good Faith Estimate of expected charges for scheduled services. Your estimate will be provided in writing before services begin. If your actual bill exceeds the Good Faith Estimate by $400 or more, you may have the right to dispute the charge.

Q: What is your cancellation policy?
A: We require 24 hours advance notice to cancel or reschedule an appointment. Cancellations made with less than 24 hours notice, and missed appointments, are subject to a late cancellation or no-show fee, which is not reimbursable by insurance.

Q: Is what I share in therapy confidential?
A: Yes. Sessions are confidential and protected under HIPAA and Illinois state law. Limited exceptions apply and are reviewed during your intake, including imminent risk of harm to self or others, suspected abuse or neglect of a child or vulnerable adult, and specific court orders. Your clinician will discuss these exceptions in detail at your first appointment.

Q: Do you prescribe medication?
A: Dr. Lipin earned his M.S. in Clinical Psychopharmacology (MSCP) from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology and is continuing to complete components required for prescribing psychologist (RxP) eligibility. While Lipin Psychology does not currently provide medication management services, Dr. Lipin works collaboratively with prescribers to offer clinically informed recommendations and to serve as part of the patient’s broader care team.

Q: Do you see couples or families?
A: Yes. Dr. Lipin works with individuals, couples, and families. Services are tailored to the clinical needs of each case and offered based on fit and availability. Please call the office for help with scheduling and to determine the most appropriate appointment type for your needs.

Q: How do I request my records?
A: Records requests can be submitted in writing to our office. A records release authorization form is required. Standard processing time is 30 days, consistent with HIPAA requirements. Reasonable fees may apply for record copying and preparation.

Q: What should I do in a mental health emergency?
A: If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. For mental health crisis support, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, available 24 hours a day. Our office does not provide emergency or after-hours crisis services.

Q: How can I contact the practice between appointments?
A: Routine questions can be directed to our office by phone or through the secure client portal. Please note that clinical questions requiring provider input are typically addressed at your next scheduled appointment. For anything urgent, please use the crisis resources listed above.