Therapy Doesn't Have to be Confusing

“Out-of-network” means that the provider (therapist) does not have a contract with your insurance company. If you receive therapy from an out-of-network therapist, your insurance company may still pay for part of the fees, if you have out-of-network benefits. Many individuals do have out-of-network benefits for mental health services, but may not be aware of this, until they inquire further.

Some reasons you might choose to see an out-of-network therapist:

• You cannot get the treatment you need from a provider within your insurance company’s network.
• You prefer more flexibility and privacy.
• With out-of-network therapy, you’re less likely to face session limits or diagnosis requirements and so therapy can focus on your goals rather than justifying treatment to an insurer.
• Or you might simply prefer to see this particular person for therapy.

To determine if you have out-of-network benefits, call your health insurance and ask them. Or check details of your health insurance plan online.

It’s also a good idea to clarify if you have a deductible, the deductible amount, and how much your insurance company will pay for each therapy session (this fee is called “co-insurance”).

Alternatively, if you receive therapy from an “in-network” therapist, this means that the therapist has a contract with your insurance company. Usually with an in-network provider you will pay your deductible and any applicable co-pay or coinsurance. You might want to choose an in-network therapist in order to decrease your overall costs of therapy.