Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who do you serve?

   We serve adults 18 or over (and their loved ones) who have self-identified or formally diagnosed with the intersection of disability and mental health. We welcome people with all disabilities, with a special focus on disabilities, mental health, and chronic health conditions that affect processing, executive functioning, or communication like ADHD, Trauma, Autism, Dyslexia, Anxiety, Tourette syndrome, Depression, Traumatic Brain Injury, Bipolar Disorder, Alcohol Use Disorder, Substance Use Disorder, and much more.

2. How do you define NeuroDivergent or Neurodiversity?

   Neurodiversity is a term that acknowledges the normal diversity in human brains, bodies, and minds. We also believe that gender and sexual orientation are forms of neurodiversity as well. The neurodiversity paradigm suggests that neurological differences are not deficits but variations that should be respected and valued. This view contrasts with pathologizing these differences as disorders, differences, or abnormalities. Even if you don’t see your type of diversity or identity listed we hope to create a safe space for all…help us understand how we can help you feel welcome… You belong here!

3. What is Peer support?

   Peer recovery support is an evidence-based practice that extends recovery support beyond the clinical setting for a collaborative, holistic approach to mental health. Both quantitative and qualitative evidence show that it not only decreases the costs related to mental health care by cutting down on hospitalizations and time spent in inpatient facilities but also promotes the use of more affordable long-term outpatient services. Moreover, peer support enhances the quality of life, boosts healthier interactions with healthcare services, and fosters better overall health,self-advocacy,and confidence.

4. What if cost is a barrier to receiving peer support or services?

   We understand that affordability can be a concern. We intentionally price our services below market value and significantly lower than clinical services, like therapy, to enhance accessibility. Please don't hesitate to reach out to us through our contact form. We offer a range of options to accommodate different financial situations, including scholarships, bartered services, and sliding scale fees. Many of our 1:1 coaching clients are working on financial goals as part of their wellness plans, so we do our best to work with everyone we can while keeping our doors open. Additionally, we can provide information about free resources such as NAMI or warmlines that may be suitable alternatives. We are committed to making sure everyone gets the support they need.

5. Do you provide clinical support?

   No, we do not. NeuroDivergent Galaxy can serve as a link to clinical services, offering assistance when a client is on a waitlist for clinical services, working in tandem with clinical care, and continuing support long after clinical services have concluded, ensuring no one is left without support when they need it. We can not diagnose, prescribe medication, or provide therapy.

6. Do you provide crisis support?

   No, we specialize in education, advocacy, and support. We understand that some situations might require more specialized support or crisis-level services. For specialized legal, medical, or crisis support, we encourage you to seek help from a professional that specializes in those areas. For a mental health crisis in the U.S. dial: 988 for 24/7 support or visit your nearest Livingroom (like an emergency room but it’s free and for mental health support). We will be here for you once you have concluded crisis support to help you maintain your long-term recovery and well-being and reduce the chance of needing crisis support in the future.

7. What if cost is a barrier to recieving peer support or services? Can you still help?

   Yes, we understand that affordability can be a concern. We intentionally price our services below market value and significantly lower than clinical services like therapy to enhance accessibility. Please don't hesitate to reach out to us through our contact form. We offer a range of options to accommodate different financial situations, including scholarships, bartered services, and sliding scale fees. Additionally, we can provide information about free resources such as NAMI or warmlines that may be suitable alternatives. We are committed to making sure everyone gets the support they need.

8. Can Peer Support/CRSS services be billed to Medicaid in IL?

   It depends, only CRSS are qualified to provide Medicaid billable services when employed/contracted by providers certified under Community Mental Health Services Program JCAR Admin. Code 059 Part 132. CRSS are qualified to provide Medicaid billable services when employed/contracted by providers licensed to provide Substance Use Treatment Services under 77 III.Admin.Code 2060. We don’t directly bill Medicaid but your qualified provider can contract us as your peer specialist, if eligible.

Note: We are under market value and not eligible for insurance related coverage. However, if we are contracted by a therapist in IL that is your Medicaid provider for mental health and the therapist has prescribed qualified peer support or navigation services under your Medicaid recovery plan they can hire us to be your peer support provider in IL.

Providers: Peer recovery support for addiction can be billed under CPT code H2014, which represents on 15 minute unit of service. Peer support may be provided as a group service or a one-on-one service. If providing peer support services as a group service, use HCPCS code H0025 (behavioral health education services, delivery of services with target population to affect knowledge, attitude and/or behavior). DHCS will divide the rate for group peer support (H0025) by 4.5. If claiming for peer support services for an individual, use code H0038 (self-help/peer services). Always review codes, billing changes, and restrictions before billing or contracting a peer support specialist.