You might be wondering why we don’t take insurance. It makes sense. It’s a significant decision to determine whether or not to stick with in-network therapists or explore out-of-network options like us. While in-network providers offer convenience and cost savings, there are compelling reasons to consider paying out of network for mental health therapy, especially when it comes to the benefits that you receive.
One of the most significant advantages of choosing out-of-network therapy is the vast pool of therapists to choose from. When you limit your search to in-network providers, you may find your options constrained, and you may need to compromise on your preferences. On the other hand, out-of-network therapists often specialize in various areas, allowing you to find a clinician who perfectly matches your needs and preferences.
If you're dealing with a specific issue such as trauma, LGBTQ identity, addiction, or eating disorders, you can seek out a therapist who specializes in that area, even if they're not part of your insurance network. This specialization can lead to more effective treatment and quicker progress in your therapy journey.
Additionally, out-of-network therapists often have more flexibility when it comes to treatment plans. They can tailor their approach to your unique needs, goals, and circumstances without the constraints of insurance regulations. This personalized treatment can lead to more effective therapy sessions and better outcomes.
In-network therapists may be pressured to follow standardized treatment protocols to ensure insurance coverage, which might not be the most suitable approach for your specific situation. By paying out of pocket, you have more control over the direction and pace of your therapy.
We believe that privacy is a crucial concern for folks when it comes to being in therapy. When you choose out-of-network therapy, you can be more confident in the confidentiality of your sessions. Insurance companies typically require documentation and sometimes even access to your therapy records. In contrast, out-of-network therapists have fewer reporting requirements, allowing for a higher level of privacy.
This increased privacy can help you feel more comfortable sharing your thoughts and emotions with your therapist, ultimately facilitating a more open and productive therapeutic relationship.
Additionally, to qualify for insurance coverage, many policies require a formal mental health diagnosis. Some clients may prefer not to receive a formal diagnosis, and others may simply be seeking support for life's challenges without being labeled with a mental health disorder. By seeing a clinician out of network, you can access therapy without the need for a diagnosis, making it more accessible for those who may not want that label.
Finally, in-network therapists often work under strict time constraints due to insurance limitations. This can result in shorter therapy sessions that may not allow for a deep exploration of complex issues. In fact, insurance will not allow for billing of sessions longer than 55-minutes, or allow you to see your therapist twice in one day. Out-of-network therapists have more flexibility regarding session length and frequency, enabling you to have longer and more meaningful conversations with your therapist.
While the convenience and cost savings of in-network therapy may initially seem appealing, paying out of network for mental health therapy can offer a range of benefits that, in our opinion, significantly outweigh the drawbacks. Clients can access specialized care, personalized treatment plans, enhanced privacy, and more flexibility, all of which contribute to a more effective and fulfilling therapy experience. On top of the benefits for you the client, clinicians are able to maintain smaller caseloads when they are out of network, as we aren’t being reimbursed at unreasonable rates or spending hours of time investigating denials with insurance companies. This allows for us as your clinicians to experience less burnout, which means that we can show up and provide better quality care. Ultimately, when it comes to your mental health, investing in out-of-network therapy can be an invaluable step towards achieving your well-being goals.