What are the Advantages of Using Self-Pay in Mental Health?

You may be thinking to yourself, I have insurance – why would I choose self-pay for therapy or psychological testing?   You may be surprised to know that one of the most popular forms of payment in mental health practices is self-pay and here are three of the many reasons why:

1.   Privacy:  The major reason many individuals wish to pay-out-of-pocket for therapy is to maintain privacy and confidentiality. 

This may come as a surprise, but when a client utilizes insurance, we, as therapists, are required to attach a diagnosis in order to release the client’s insurance benefits.  This diagnosis (or diagnoses) will then become a permanent part of the client’s medical record.  As advocates for mental health awareness, please understand that we do not feel as though there should be any shame about receiving a mental health diagnosis.  But we also feel as though those that wish to do so should be able to keep this information confidential. 

2.   Flexibility:  When you decide to pay out of pocket, you are much more in control of your treatment. 

Insurance does not cover all mental health diagnoses or types of therapy.  Many plans do not cover marital therapy, for example.  In addition, some insurance plans do not cover telehealth or phone sessions.  When using self-pay, individuals can have the freedom to utilize these resources without concern of insurance denial. 

3.    Less Restrictions and More options:  Many times, with insurance companies, there are limits to the number of sessions allowed and limits to provider choice.

When using self-pay, there are no restrictions on the number of sessions allowed.  When you use self-pay, you get to choose the provider you see!