Choosing A Therapist Outside Of Your Insurance Network

Are you looking for an out-of-network therapist? Many individuals seek in-network providers to ensure services are covered. However, there can be reasons why you may want to consider seeking care outside your health plan network of providers. Below are a few options that may be available to you, providing supportive information about navigating health insurance plans with an out of network therapist.

Out-Of-Network Therapist Information

At times, health insurance providers may change their list of accepted plans, switch company ownership, or reduce coverage options. If you were seeing an in network therapist that is no longer covered, you may have the option to keep working with them as an out of network provider, pay higher co-pays, or pay for your session with your own money. In some cases, individuals might search for in network providers to switch to, although they may risk losing progress with their prior provider. 

Some individuals may dread this scenario because it can involve paying out of pocket or submitting complicated insurance claims. However, you may find support from out of network providers if you can't find in-network options. You might also find a more significant amount of out of network therapists if you previously were not offered many options. 

What Is An Out-Of-Network Therapist? 

When a therapist is out of network, it can mean they do not have a contract rate with your health insurance company, so they might not accept insurance payments from your insurance plans. An in network therapist has negotiated what they will earn through your insurance provider. It may cost patients more to use services out-of-network and costs insurance companies less when you use an in network provider covered by the insurance plan. 

A doctor or specialist may choose to be an out-of-network provider because they did not approve a contract arrangement with the insurance company. Additionally, they might experience a lack of reimbursement for services because the provider may pay less than the total cost when they submit claims.

You may be required to submit a claim to your insurance for out-of-network benefits if your insurance falls under this category. In some cases, you can get an out of network reimbursement. You may also qualify for session fees with cash, but with discount rates. Paying the total amount in cash may not be required, but this could be an option if you receive services without filing an insurance claim. Some out-of-network providers may provide a special rate or bundle offers to make it easier to pay when therapy session fees are out-of-network.

Check Your Policy For Out-Of-Network Benefits

It can be beneficial to check with your insurance network to learn more about their out-of-network policy, as all companies can have different standards and network benefits. The information about these out of network benefits may be added to your health insurance policy's "summary details" section. 

Your insurance company website may also have details about how they handle payments to out-of-network providers and whether they offer any out of network insurance or out of network claim options. If in doubt, contact the insurance company directly and ask about the network offered to you, how many sessions they cover, and their policy for out-of-network therapy reimbursement. Checking policy details carefully can help you avoid paying out of pocket unexpectedly for mental health services.

Understanding how your insurance plan pays for out of network services can be valuable when planning for other medical expenses and co-pays. You may benefit from knowing if there are any essential details about coverage for mental health services and ensuring you have a more comprehensive understanding of these options. You can also ask your insurance company the following questions: 

• Is the out-of-network deductible the same amount as the in-network deductible for mental health specialists?

• Has the deductible been met yet, and is there an out of pocket limit?

• What is the coinsurance for outpatient mental health services?

• Do you qualify for reimbursement for out-of-network fees? How are requests for reimbursement made?

• Is a referral required to see an out-of-network specialist?

Some companies may mail you a check reimbursing you for services. However, you may have to pay the total price yourself upon utilizing the service, which can be costly for some individuals. 

Why People Might Choose To Pay Out-Of-Pocket

Some insurance pays for specific services and sessions or covers a certain number within a calendar year. Some people may decide not to work with an insurance company because they are working with a mental health specialist not covered under their insurance. In some cases, a diagnosis may be necessary to give a referral, and the insurance company may require that diagnosis and referral authorization before insurance pays for a reimbursement.

You may be required to pay out-of-pocket if you meet a deductible before the insurance coverage kicks in.

Learn About Potential Costs And Payment Terms

Research how much you'll pay for services, depending on the network status. At times, the cost is estimated before services, and you may learn from checking your policy what you'll be responsible for paying. An added deductible may be included, regardless of the network.

Check the payment terms of the therapist you'll be working with beforehand to learn if they accept insurance or if you need to pay in full, finance, or make flexible payments. At times, a therapist might also file an out-of-network claim to your insurance company for you, so ask them if that is part of their billing process. If not, you may need to fill out a form and file the insurance companies claim yourself, based on their network status and your insurance benefits. Details of who to contact can often be found on your insurance card.

How To Compare Therapists

Choosing a suitable therapist for you can depend on a few factors, including your personal needs. There are therapists skilled and trained to provide support for different areas of mental health. Some provide short-term therapy, and others conduct frequent sessions over a more extended period. Some diagnose conditions, while others offer various treatment options and combine medication management. 

Keep the following in mind when comparing therapists: 

• Educational background, credentials, licensing, and training

• Specialization 

• Approach to treatment

• Type of therapist desired 

• Personal concerns and symptoms 

• Diagnosis

• Whether counseling, medication, or other treatment forms may be necessary 

• Health insurance policies, co-pays, and mental health coverage 

Consider connecting with more than one therapist before making a decision. Get leads to potential therapists to compare by getting a referral from your doctor, receiving a recommendation from family or friends, asking local mental health organization associations, or browsing online therapist directories.

Questions To Ask Potential Providers

You may gain confidence in your therapist and find out if they are suitable by asking questions about aspects of the care they provide. Many therapists may be available online or in-person to provide services and advice. If you feel uncomfortable with working with a therapist, consider making a list of questions to break the ice and start a conversation. Below are a few questions you might ask: 

• What experience do you have treating clients with depression, anxiety, and related disorders?

• Do you provide treatment for children, adults, or both?

• Do you provide a free first session to new clients?

• What are my options if I don't feel better within a specified timeframe?

• Can you describe your approach and treatment options?

• How can you help me cope with my problem?

• If your insurance covers dependents, what services does the parent's insurance plan provide?

• Is there a co-pay at the time of service?

• Do you file out-of-network claims, or should I? 

• Do you prefer to lead or let the client lead? 

• Can we discuss (symptom or concern)? 

Internet-Based Options For Counseling 

Online therapy might be an affordable option if you are struggling to pay for therapy. Some platforms, like BetterHelp, offer sessions at a $40 to $60 rate per session. As traditional in-person therapy in the US averages around $100 to $200 a session without insurance, online therapy may be cheaper. As therapists may not have to pay for office rent or commute costs, they may offer a lower session price. Clients may also save money by not having to commute and being able to stay home. 

Additionally, the National Center for Health Research conducted an in-depth review of dozens of online therapy studies in the face of rising mental health concerns during the pandemic. They found that online therapy is as effective as in-person therapy for various conditions and concerns, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD.

Suppose you are living with mental health challenges, and your insurance provider does not cover therapists in your area or for your specific needs. In that case, an online therapist could benefit you and save you money spent on co-pays or out-of-network fees. 

Have Questions About Choosing An Out-Of-Network Therapist?

Ask A Licensed Mental Health Professional Online.