Why Choose Private Pay for Therapy?

Paying out of pocket for private therapy—rather than using insurance—can offer several important benefits. Below, I’ve outlined some of the key benefits to help you make an informed, confident decision.

1. Greater Privacy and Confidentiality

• No insurance records: When you pay privately, your mental health treatment stays off your medical record. Insurance requires a diagnosis and may share information with third parties.

• No required diagnosis: Therapists don’t need to assign a mental health disorder unless it’s clinically necessary, which may help avoid being labeled unnecessarily.

2. Increased Choice and Control

• Length and frequency of sessions: You and your therapist decide the pace of therapy—not the insurance company.

• Specialization and expertise: You have freedom to choose a provider of your preference with the background, approach, or experience you're seeking—even if they're not covered by insurance.

• No Network Restrictions: You have access to services that may not be covered by insurance, such as couples therapy, trauma-informed care, or depth work.

3. No Insurance Limits

• No session caps: Insurance may only cover a limited number of sessions per year. Out-of-pocket therapy can be ongoing as long as you need.

• No restrictions on treatment goals: Insurance may only approve therapy that addresses a clinical diagnosis. Self-improvement, stress, or personal growth aren’t typically covered but are valid reasons for therapy.

4. Simpler Administrative Process

• No claim forms, denials, or pre-authorizations: You avoid dealing with insurance paperwork and potential delays or rejections.

• Quicker access to care: You can often start therapy sooner when paying directly, especially if you’re not limited to in-network providers.

I'm mindful that therapy is an investment. Many clients find that the benefits of flexibility, privacy, and personalized care are well worth it. To support accessibility, I offer:

• Sliding scale rates

• Superbills for possible out-of-network reimbursement

• Flexible scheduling options

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to discuss what’s right for you.