Why Going Out-of-Network for Therapy May Be the Better Option
Using insurance to pay for therapy can be valuable for those seeking affordable mental health counseling services. However, there are also several reasons why individuals may choose not to use insurance to pay for therapy services. Understanding these reasons can help individuals make informed decisions about their mental health care and support their overall well-being.
Privacy Concerns
Some individuals may be concerned about the privacy of their mental health information as health insurance companies may have access to their medical records. This can be particularly concerning for those who work in sensitive careers or who have personal circumstances that they do not wish to be disclosed. When individuals use their health insurance to cover counseling services, those providers are required to submit information to your insurance companies for billing purposes. Because of this, some individuals also get concerned that having a diagnosis on file with their health insurance will impact their life insurance rates.
Limited Provider Network
Insurance companies may have a limited network of mental health providers, which can impact an individual's options when it comes to selecting a therapist. This can be frustrating for those who live in rural or remote areas or who have specific needs when it comes to mental health care. Individuals who go out of network may have more options available to them.
Preauthorization Requirements
Insurance companies may require preauthorization for mental health therapy services, which can lead to a delay in receiving care. This can be particularly challenging for individuals who are eager to start therapy and make progress in their mental health journey. When individuals decide not to use their insurance, they do not need to seek pre-authorization for services.
Confusing Rates
When using insurance to pay for therapy sessions, understanding how much is owed at the time of a session can be complicated for therapists and clients alike. Some people have deductibles while others do not. Keeping track of one’s deductible and when it has been met can also be tricky. Having a deductible influences the amount that you will pay at the time of session. Once your deductible has been met, you will owe a different rate for your therapy sessions. All of this can be confusing. When people opt not to use their health insurance to cover their therapy sessions, the fee owed at the time of session is crystal clear.
Insurance Coverage Limitations
Insurance coverage for mental health therapy services may have limitations, such as having a limited number of sessions per year or a requirement for a specific diagnosis. This can make it difficult for individuals to receive the care they need or limit their ability to make progress in therapy. When individuals decide NOT to use their health insurance, they are not bound by insurance companies’ guidelines.
Medical Necessity
Insurance companies only pay for counseling services when therapists can show that there is “medical necessity.” If someone is seeking counseling for prevention, wellness, or other issues that don’t meet criteria for “medical necessity,” insurance may not be used. When individuals do not use their health insurance to cover sessions, they can determine what it is that they work on without having to worry about whether or not an insurance company will cover the service.
In conclusion, there are many reasons why individuals may choose not to use insurance to pay for therapy services. These can range from privacy concerns to limitations in insurance coverage. By understanding these reasons, individuals can make informed decisions about their mental health care and support their overall well-being. While insurance can be a valuable resource for reducing the cost of therapy, it's important to carefully consider the pros and cons of using insurance for mental health care, and weigh these factors against one's unique needs and circumstances.
Health Insurance at LifeSpring Counseling Services in Maryland
LifeSpring Counseling Services does accept health insurance. Our therapists are in network with Johns Hopkins EHP, CareFirst, BlueCross BlueShield, BlueChoice, Cigna, and Evernorth health plans. We also work with individuals who do not want to use their health insurance to pay for counseling services.
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Interested in Online Counseling for Anxiety or Depression?
If you’re a Marylander who knows that counseling is the direction you need to take, the therapists at LifeSpring Counseling Services are here to help. We offer online counseling services for mindfulness, depression, anxiety, trauma, and grief and loss. We also offer Brainspotting as a specialized service, and Brainspotting can be done online, too!
Here’s how you can get started! Online counseling for anxiety and depression aren’t the only services offered at our Maryland office
The counselors and social workers at our Maryland office also offer counseling services for trauma, grief and loss, boundary setting, communication skills, and difficult life transitions. We also offer specialized counseling services including Brainspotting and spiritually-integrated counseling. Because we are located next to several local universities, we also work with college students and international students.
Photo Credit: Liza Summer and Andrea Piacquadio
Date of Download: 3/8/2022
