What Is Out-of-Network Therapy and Why It Might Be the Right Fit for You
Starting therapy can feel like a big decision, and one of the first questions many people ask is: “Do you take my insurance?”
It’s a fair question. But it’s also worth asking a second one: “What kind of care do I want—and what will help me feel better, faster?”
As a therapist who specializes in short-term, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), I’ve chosen to work as an out-of-network (OON) provider. That means I don’t bill insurance companies directly—but that doesn’t mean therapy has to be unaffordable or out of reach.
In fact, being OON may offer more flexibility, more privacy, and more effective care—especially when your goals are focused and your time is valuable.
What Does “Out-of-Network” Mean?
Simply put, out-of-network therapists don’t contract with insurance companies. Instead, clients pay for sessions directly, and if they have a PPO or similar plan, they can often get reimbursed by their insurance for a portion of the cost.
I provide you with what’s called a superbill, which you can submit to your insurance for partial reimbursement.
Why I Chose to Be Out-of-Network (OON)
I didn’t make this decision lightly. But here’s why I believe it benefits the people I work with:
1. More Effective, Short-Term Care
CBT is goal-oriented and structured. It’s designed to help you develop specific tools and skills to manage anxiety, depression, stress, or life transitions—in a relatively short number of sessions.
When I’m not limited by insurance rules or session caps, I can tailor our work more precisely to your needs. That often means better results in fewer sessions.
2. More Privacy
Insurance companies require a formal mental health diagnosis to approve therapy. They may request records, review progress, and even limit how many sessions they’ll cover based on that.
Working OON means your mental health care stays private and fully under your control.
3. More Flexibility and Focus
Without the time-consuming demands of insurance paperwork, pre-authorizations, or billing delays, I’m able to focus on your goals. That means more personalized care such as selecting resources and homework that support your progress between sessions.
Working out-of-network also allows me to maintain a smaller caseload, so I can be more present, more responsive, and more available to support you throughout our work together.
Why Clients Choose Out-of-Network Care
Cost is, of course, an important factor. But many clients find that the quality, flexibility, and outcomes of OON therapy are worth the investment—especially when they don’t need therapy to be long-term.
Here’s why people choose to work with an OON therapist like me:
✅ They want a specialized approach (like CBT) from someone trained in evidence-based tools.
✅ They have goals and want to see progress—not just talk things through
✅ They understand that faster progress often means fewer total sessions
What About Reimbursement?
If you have a PPO or similar plan, you may be eligible for partial reimbursement once your deductible is met. Every plan is different, but many clients are surprised by how much they can get back. I’ll provide you with everything you need to submit for reimbursement, and I’m happy to help walk you through the process.
Therapy is an investment in yourself—not just financially, but emotionally and mentally. As a short-term CBT therapist, my goal is to make that investment as focused, efficient, and empowering as possible. If you’re looking for clear goals, concrete tools, and a structured path forward—not years of therapy—I’d be honored to work with you. Still have questions about OON therapy or how it works? Contact me—I’m happy to help!
