What Does Private Pay Mean?
Private pay means that you choose to pay for your therapy sessions directly, rather than using a health insurance provider. Somtimes people often refer to it as self-pay. This is NOT the same as Out-of-Network! We will talk more about this HERE.
Why do some people choose private pay instead of insurance?
While insurance can reduce out-of-pocket costs, there are several reasons why clients often prefer the private pay model:
Enhanced Privacy: When you use insurance, the company requires a clinical diagnosis and may request access to your treatment records. Private paying keeps your mental health records strictly between you and your therapist.
No Mandatory Diagnosis: Insurance companies typically only cover medically necessary treatments, which requires a formal diagnosis and can sometimes lead to the insurance company deciding if therapy is needed or not. Private pay allows you to seek support for personal growth, relationship issues, or life transitions without a permanent diagnosis on your medical record.
Freedom of Treatment: You and your therapist can decide on the frequency and duration of your sessions without being restricted by the session limits or medical necessity requirements of an insurance company.
Specialized Care: Many evidence-based modalities, such as EMDR, couples therapy, or specialized trauma work, may not always be fully covered or recognized by every insurance plan.
What are your standard self-pay rates?
Our rates are based on the type and length of the session. Please contact our office directly for a current fee schedule, as rates may vary based on the specific clinician and service provided (e.g., individual, couples, EMDR, DDP).
Can I use my HSA or FSA?
Yes. Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) generally allow you to pay for therapy services using your pre-tax dollars. We can provide you with the necessary receipts or documentation to satisfy your provider’s requirements.
What is a Superbill?
A superbill is a detailed receipt that lists the dates of service, the type of service provided, and the amount paid. If you have out-of-network benefits with your insurance provider, you may be able to submit this superbill to them for partial reimbursement.
Note: We recommend calling your insurance provider beforehand to ask, "Do I have out-of-network benefits for outpatient mental health?"
What is the Good Faith Estimate?
Under the No Surprises Act, you have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate explaining how much your medical care will cost.
We will provide this estimate in writing before your first session.
It will include the total expected cost of any non-emergency items or services.
For more information, you can visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises.
How do I make payments?
For your convenience, we utilize a secure, HIPAA-compliant patient portal where you can keep a card on file. Payments are typically processed on the next business day following your appointment.
