I currently have openings for virtual therapy. See below regarding information on using your Health Insurance benefits.

Information that you should consider prior to using your insurance benefits:

  1. I recommend that you contact your insurance prior to starting therapy to inquire about your behavioral health benefits, whether or not you need pre-authorization or referral, your co-pays or deductible, and if you have other provisions or limitations to your particular policy. 

  2. For some people it makes sense to use health insurance for psychotherapy, especially if it allows them access to services they otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford. Insurance companies can sometime pay for a portion or all your therapy, based on your policy. Other people decide that the flexibility afforded by paying privately is worth the extra cost. You will be asked to provide written authorization for your therapist to communicate with your insurer. The insurance company is entitled to some personal information about your situation and treatment plan, and a written record is kept of your sessions.

  3. When using your insurance benefits you will be given a mental health diagnosis by your therapist (such as depression, PTSD, adjustment disorder, etc.) in order to prove "medical necessity". Many people seek therapy even if they do not exhibit significant distress or have a mental health diagnosis; however they use therapy as a tool for self-enhancement and self-growth.

I suggest that you consider your options based on your specific circumstances and the purpose of your therapy.

Ultimately, it is your decision and it is usually a balance of needs, privacy, and cost.

I am a provider for the following insurance plans:

Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS)

Optum Network including United Healthcare, United Behavioral Health and HPHP

Out of pocket fees:

  • 55-minute intake session: $160

  • 50-minute psychotherapy session: $160

  • 90-minute group therapy session: $50

Those with other insurance plans that offer out-of-network benefits may be able to receive some reimbursement for sessions. I will provide you with the document to submit to your insurance company.

Some questions you could ask your insurance company:

  • Do I have out-of-network benefits for mental health coverage?

  • If so, what percentage is covered?

  • Do I have a deductible? What is it and how much of it have I met?

  • What is the co-pay for a session if I see an out-of-network provider?

  • How do I submit a request for reimbursement?