Private Pay & Out-of-Network Therapy

Many of my clients choose to pay privately for therapy or use their out-of-network insurance benefits. This can provide greater flexibility in choosing the therapist who feels like the right fit for you, rather than limiting your options to providers within your insurance network.

If your health insurance plan includes out-of-network mental health benefits, you may be eligible for reimbursement for a portion of the cost of therapy. I can provide you with a superbill containing the information you need to submit a claim to your insurance company for possible reimbursement.

Using Out-of-Network Benefits

Out-of-network benefits vary significantly by insurance plan. Before beginning therapy, I recommend contacting your insurance company and asking:

• Does my plan include out-of-network benefits for outpatient mental health services?

• Do I have an out-of-network deductible, and how much of it have I met?

• What percentage of the allowed amount will my plan reimburse after my deductible is met?

• Is there a limit on the number of therapy sessions covered each year?

• Do I need prior authorization or a referral?

• How do I submit a superbill for reimbursement?

Keep in mind that reimbursement is determined by your insurance company and is not guaranteed.

Why Choose Private-Pay Therapy?

Some clients prefer to keep insurance out of their therapy altogether. Private pay can offer greater flexibility and privacy and allows treatment decisions to remain primarily between you and your therapist.

When insurance is used to pay for therapy, insurers generally require a mental health diagnosis and may require certain information to establish medical necessity and process claims. For some clients, particularly those seeking therapy for life transitions, relationships, parenting, fertility, identity, professional stress, or personal growth, private pay may feel like a better fit.

Choosing private pay does not mean that your concerns aren't important enough for therapy. It simply means that insurance is not being used to determine whether or how your care is covered.

Fees & Payment

Payment is due at the time of service. I accept private-pay clients and can provide superbills for clients who would like to seek reimbursement through their out-of-network benefits.

I encourage you to contact your insurance company directly to understand your specific benefits before beginning treatment.

Good Faith Estimate

Under the No Surprises Act, clients who do not have insurance or who are not using insurance to pay for care are entitled to receive a Good Faith Estimate explaining the expected cost of services.

You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate of the expected charges for non-emergency healthcare services. Please ask if you would like additional information about your estimated cost of treatment.

Have Questions?

Insurance benefits can be confusing, and you don't need to have everything figured out before reaching out. If you're considering therapy and wondering whether private pay or using your out-of-network benefits makes sense for you, feel free to contact me.