Navigating the Shift: Why Choosing an Out-of-Network Provider Might Be Worth It
Up until now, I’ve chosen to accept insurance to help make therapy more affordable and accessible for my clients. I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve so many people in this way, but over time, I’ve come to realize that the financial strain of doing so is unsustainable. The pressure of charging $170 per session simply because I need to make a living has caused me anxiety. After much reflection, I’ve made the difficult decision to go out of network.
Will this mean I lose some clients? Yes, likely. Will it take time to rebuild my practice with new referrals? Absolutely. But will it allow me to focus on a more sustainable work-life balance, while also being fairly compensated for my work? I hope so. In the two weeks since making this decision, I’ve had a lot of time to think about the benefits of working with out-of-network providers and how it could be the right choice for many individuals. Here’s why seeing an out-of-network provider—despite the additional cost—might be the best thing you can do for your mental health.
When you opt for an out-of-network provider, you avoid much of this red tape. You no longer have to wait for insurance approvals or deal with the stress of denied claims. Instead, you have direct communication with your therapist, giving you more autonomy in your care. This can help you focus on your mental health without being bogged down by administrative delays or limitations imposed by insurance companies.
Choosing an out-of-network provider allows you to take control of your treatment. You can schedule sessions at a frequency that works best for your needs—whether that’s weekly, bi-weekly, or as often as necessary—without worrying about insurance caps. Your treatment plan can be tailored specifically to you, rather than shaped by what your insurer deems “appropriate.”
While out-of-network care might seem like a financial stretch, it is an investment in your long-term happiness and stability. You’re not just paying for therapy sessions; you’re making a commitment to your mental health, your future, and your overall quality of life. That kind of investment is priceless.
Out-of-network providers often offer highly specialized services that can better meet your needs. Whether it’s a therapeutic approach, a modality that resonates with you, or the provider’s unique expertise, you have the freedom to choose the care that’s the best fit for you—not what insurance deems acceptable.
By choosing an out-of-network provider, you have the flexibility to find someone who truly matches your needs and preferences. You’re not restricted to a list, and you don’t have to worry about losing your therapist if they change insurance affiliations. You maintain continuity of care, which is key to building trust and making progress in therapy.
Moreover, out-of-network therapists may be more open to tailoring their approach to fit your specific needs—whether that means a particular treatment modality, frequency of sessions, or overall care plan. If you’ve been feeling constrained by the rigid options available through in-network providers, the flexibility of out-of-network care may be exactly what you need.
Chronic stress, untreated mental health issues, and burnout can lead to costly medical treatments down the road or even prevent you from being able to work or enjoy life. By investing in the right mental health treatment now, you’re helping to safeguard your future well-being and prevent bigger challenges down the line.
At the end of the day, prioritizing your mental health is one of the most valuable investments you can make. You wouldn’t hesitate to spend on things that bring temporary joy, so why not invest in something that will improve your life for years to come?
For those considering the transition to out-of-network care, I encourage you to think of it as an investment in your health and future. It’s a decision that not only benefits you today but supports your well-being in the long run.
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