Why I Chose a primarily Private Pay Counseling Practice
For many years, I was a participating provider for several insurance companies. As I grew as a therapist, something didn’t feel authentic. You know... when your gut starts letting you know that something isn’t quite right?
I allowed myself a lot of time (literally three years) to explore this nagging feeling. As I quietly listened to my gut, I began to realize that the insurance model wasn’t working for me, my clients or my business.
Then, one day it dawned on me: I wasn’t practicing what I preach.
There are two concepts that I talk about with nearly all of the people who participate in anxiety counseling with me: energy usage and maintaining behavior in line with values.
You only have so much energy - you have to decide how to use it every day.
Each of us only have a set amount of energy every day and we need to use it intentionally. I have come to realize I was giving too much energy to the insurance companies. This in turn, reduced the amount of energy I was able to give to my clients. That’s not ok with me.
I want my energy going to my clients - in session - doing the best job I can to help them reach their goals. Period.
By continuing to give a chunk of my energy to the insurance companies, I wasn’t able to provide the level of care that is important to me. I was not maintaining my behavior in line with my values.
Keeping my behavior in line with my values.
During my years of experience, I have learned a lot about what is and is not helpful. I no longer have to allow insurance to dictate what that treatment will look like. The decision to no longer accept insurance, has allowed me to provide treatment that is more tailored to each client.
Why might you choose to privately pay for counseling?
Increased confidentiality. In order to cover session costs, insurance companies require that pieces of your private information be shared with them. This includes when you were seen, how long you were seen, and your diagnosis. They can also audit your chart in order to gain additional information about your progress. This information becomes part of your permanent record and may affect future life insurance rates and employment. With private pay and under normal circumstances, you and your counselor are the only people who will know the inner workings of your therapy.
More control over your treatment. Insurance companies can regulate how often, where and for how long you are allowed to meet with your counselor. In conjunction with the therapist, private pay clients are able to determine the focus, duration, frequency and location of therapy (i.e. in-person, virtual, walk-and-talk).
No labels required. Insurance companies only cover certain diagnoses and the situation for which you are seeking help may not fall into one of those diagnosable disorders. Also, a diagnosis becomes a part of your permanent private health record and may affect qualification and rates of future life insurance or employment opportunities.
Specialized treatment with a counselor who is a good fit. Research continues to demonstrate that one of the largest predictors of goal attainment is the relationship between the client and the counselor. When you pay privately for therapy, you are not restricted in who you can see.
More of your counselor’s time and energy. The insurance system is archaic and time consuming. Between verifying benefits, billing and documentation, your counselor will have less time to focus on you. Within a private pay system, your counselor is able to focus solely on helping you reach your goals.
Continuity of care. With private pay, you are able to continue sessions with your counselor even when your insurance coverage changes.
I’m not saying insurance is all bad.
In certain circumstances and for some people, insurance is a fantastic option. If you’ve got it and it works for you, then use it! I am just hoping to give a little insight into another option.
