Why am I not accepting insurance?

1. I am currently licensed as a “Social Worker Associate” which does not allow me to bill to insurance. However, even if I were independently licensed, I would still opt out of billing insurance companies and remain a private pay therapist.

2. Insurance companies require that there be a mental health diagnose given at the first session. I prefer to have an accurate analysis of an individual and often times it takes more than one session to gather enough information to make a proper diagnosis. While I can give you a diagnosis, the record of that diagnosis is protected from accessible records. When you bill using your insurance, your records become accessible.

   • Essentially this means, that diagnoses stay in a medical record permanently and can be used against clients if they were to apply for specific insurance policies (such as short-term disability) or in the case of applying for certain career positions.

3. Insurance companies have the authority to dictate how I provide treatment by approving only certain kinds of therapy and may limit the number of sessions you may have.

4. Lastly, having a private practice allows me to work more collaboratively with clients to address whatever needs that are brought to therapy without having to adhere to strict guidelines set by insurance companies. There may be times that anxiety or depression levels are improving, but other needs may arise that could be addressed within therapy (e.g. anger management, social skills, communication skills, etc.). Having my own practice and essentially being able to run my business in the way that I believe works for my clients allows for a better working relationship in my opinion.

   Can I be reimbursed by my insurance company?

It is my understanding that while I have my “Associate” license, insurance companies will not reimburse for my services. Once I am independently licensed, I will then be able to provide a Superbill which would allow for reimbursement. I also want to note that while I have my “Associate” license, it does not mean I am new to the field. What it means is that I am starting over under a different license than when I was in community mental health (with Compass Health) where I did accumulate the number of hours required for an “Independent” license but did not apply for it at the time. While working at Compass Health, my license was an Agency Affiliated Counselor license and my current license is an Social Worker Associate license and I am starting over in accumulating the hours needed for independent licensure.

What if I start services with you then change my mind?

It is understandable that there may be circumstances where it turns out that we are not a good fit or your needs are shifting. In the event that this happens, I will work with you to explore other providers that I can refer you to or local community mental health providers in your area. My priority is making sure you are receiving the care you need and deserve.