Frequently Asked Questions

NOTE:  Many questions may be answered in the Consent for Services provided on intake.  If you can't find your answer there or here below, please call or email me.

What insurances do you accept?

I am currently in network with BCBS,  Optum/UHC/UMR, Cigna/Evernorth, Healthlink, Aetna/Meritain, and the VA Community Care Network  I may be able to bill your insurance for out of network services which will be discussed during initial consult and before services are initiated.  I also gladly accept self-pay clients.   

What do you specialize in?

I am particularly interested in providing treatment for trauma, stress, anxiety, and adjustment difficulties.  I offer EMDR therapy (see below for details) as a highly effective method for resolving these problems.   Nonetheless, I am open to providing support on a wide range of issues beyond these.

Having battled major illness in the past, I recognize the often overlooked connection between physical health and mental health.  To this end,  I have obtained specialized training as a Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional (CIMHP) in order to provide a more holistic approach to treating mental health problems.  Not all mental health issues can be fully resolved with a purely psychological approach.  Some require lifestyle changes such as improving nutrition & supplementation, exercise, environmental modifications, and improving sleep hygiene.  As your therapist, I will  provide tailored coaching and insight into these critical factors.  

Though I gladly welcome both male and female clients, Invictus Counseling was created with the vision of providing a counseling experience exceedingly appealing to men.  Studies show that men are nearly 50% less likely to seek mental health services compared to women.  Men are also exponentially more likely to struggle with isolation and are almost 4 times more likely to commit suicide.  I hope to facilitate a welcoming path out of the darkness.

Lastly, I am eager to work with clients who wish to explore and overcome difficulties with and through their Christian Faith.  I am a non-denominational Christian and am fascinated by the overlap of psychology, philosophy, and the Christian Faith.  

What does counseling cost?

I aim to maintain fees that are commensurate with most providers in this area.  Out of pocket costs may vary significantly depending on insurance policies.  Typical copays are $15-$30/session.   If you are not utilizing insurance, my service fee is $125/session.  In these instances, a Good Faith Estimate will be provided outlining fees prior to the start of services, in accordance with the No Surprises Act.

Do you offer tele-health appointments?

My counseling approach and technique is primarily geared towards in-person therapy, especially with EMDR and mindfulness training.  Nonetheless, I understand that life can throw curveballs such as icy roads, school closures, sickness, and car problems; therefore, I am willing to offer tele-health sessions in special circumstances.

What is your cancellation policy?

If you cancel an appointment with less than 2 hours notice, or do not show for a scheduled appointment, you may be assessed a $20 fee for the first occurrence.  If you make subsequent cancellations with less than 24 hours notice or do not show for a scheduled appointment, you may be assessed an $80 fee per occurrence.  Notice of cancellation may be made after hours and on weekends via voice message, email, or text.  If you are noticeably sick (fever, vomiting, etc.), I may reschedule your appointment.  Please notify me ASAP if you are unable to make a scheduled appointment.  This helps to ensure that unfilled time slots can be used to help clients who may be in crisis and need an immediate appointment.

Where are you located?

Click HERE to view in Google Maps.

Click HERE to find me within the building.

What is EMDR?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is an extensively researched, effective psychotherapy method proven to help people recover from trauma and other distressing life experiences, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, and panic disorders.

Invictus Counseling LLC  '24   |   207 N Main St, Ste 104B, Columbia, IL 62236   |   309-331-4388  |  shawn.forbes.counselor@gmail.com


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