WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES TO PAYING OUT-OF-POCKET?
1) Choice: Patients who wish to stay in network may not always find a provider with whom they are comfortable, or who has experience dealing with the types of issues the patient wishes to address in therapy. In some areas of the country, in-network access to therapy is extremely restricted, requiring patients to travel as much as two hours to see someone.
2) Flexibility: While the 2008 Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act prohibits insurance companies from imposing obvious disparities in mental versus physical health treatment, consumers find that certain restrictions remain. Many experts observe that the focus of insurance companies tends to be on stabilizing patients, rather than committing to long-term psychotherapy. Paying out of pocket allows patients to bypass these restrictions, opting for the number of sessions they feel necessary. Self-pay patients may also opt for longer sessions, if the need arises, whereas patients covered by insurance must stay within the negotiated time slots.
3) Privacy: When patients use insurance, therapists must attach a diagnosis to release insurance benefits. This diagnosis then becomes part of the patient’s permanent medical record. For patients who wish to maintain their privacy, and are uncomfortable with the number of people who have access to their medical record, they may opt to pay. Paying out of pocket means that therapists are not required to assign a mental health diagnosis or share medical information with anyone.
4) Timeliness: Particularly in overstretched networks, patients may have to wait long periods of time to schedule therapy with a provider who accepts their insurance. If they are paying out of pocket, they may find availability much sooner.
5) Convenience: Paying out of pocket not only allows the patient to see someone more quickly, but self-pay patients are often given the option of arranging more flexible session times, such as weekends or evenings.
Initial Intake fee is $250. Follow Up Therapy Sessions: $205-$225
Psychological Testing Fees - Insurance not accepted. Estimated cost ranges depending on type of testing. Please contact me for further information and estimated cost.
Important Information About Insurance
Insurance Accepted (In-Network)
First Choice Health
Pacific Source
I do not accept insurance other than First Choice Health or Pacific Source for therapy. If you are out of network, I am able to provide a SuperBill that you can provide to your insurance company for possible reimbursement. I encourage you to speak to your insurance provider before scheduling your appointment to determine how much of your fee will be reimbursed.