When trying to decide on the type of therapy you want to choose, it is probably your first instinct to go with a therapist or therapy service that is covered by insurance. I mean, it’s there for a reason, right? Isn’t that why you pay those premiums? But, there are many benefits to going the private pay route. Ones that you may not have considered or even known about. Insurance companies often have more say than you think about what therapists you can see and treatments you can get. From the type of therapy to the length of sessions, and even how long you can see a therapist.
With private pay, you get more independence when it comes to deciding what is best for your mental health. This way, you don’t have to rely on a random person at the insurance office. Someone who doesn’t necessarily know your story. So, in this blog, we are going to cover some of these benefits. This way you are able to make an informed decision when it comes to choosing the type of therapy you want in Orange County, CA.
You are Not Tied to a Diagnosis
When it comes to therapy, insurances almost always require you to be given a diagnosis for them to approve the cost of therapy. In turn, once you receive a diagnosis, this can often limit what the insurance deems necessary for your treatment. For example, if you are being treated for anxiety and you start to feel depressed, the insurance may not approve an additional diagnosis for depression. Or, if you are being treated for depression and you start to experience intrusive thoughts. Your insurance may not approve a treatment plan that addresses this.
With private pay, you are not tied to one or any diagnosis. You and your private pay therapist can work together on whatever you need to. You can also create a treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs. Even if you start to develop anxiety on top of your depression. Or, if you experience trauma during your time in therapy. You still do not have to worry about your insurance not covering it. Your therapist will work with you in a way to incorporate those concerns into your treatment plan. So you can focus on effectively working through them.
With Private Pay, You Have More Freedom in How Long You Meet With a Therapist
As I mentioned briefly above, insurance companies can give you a cutoff date for when it’s time for you to stop therapy. Even if you’re not ready, you’re still healing, or you’re experiencing a new symptom of your condition. Your insurance still may not approve more sessions. Which is wild considering they don’t know you, what you’re going through, and you pay your premiums each month.
With private pay, you don’t have to worry about any of that. You and your therapist can decide together when you both feel comfortable ending your sessions. If you feel like you need more time, then that’s what you get. If the plan is to slowly lessen the number of sessions until you’re ready to end therapy, then that’s what you can do. Basically, it’s all up to you and your therapist to decide. Another perk with private pay therapy is that you don’t have to worry about a random person making big decisions on behalf of you and your mental health.
You Have More Independence On Your Treatment Plan
Now, it’s not just the time limit the insurance has a say on. They can also tell you what types of therapies, modalities, and approaches you and your therapist must use. If they don’t deem it necessary or a covered benefit, then you can’t do it. Even if your therapist knows it is the best treatment for you and can support you in being able to explain why this will benefit you.
By choosing a private pay therapist, you are allowed more independence and wiggle room when it comes to your treatment plan. You can work with your therapist to choose methods that will be the best fit for you. Rather than just going with what your insurance approves. If you’re needing a more innovative method of therapy such as EMDR, art therapy, or hypnosis, you can work with your therapist to decide if this is the best avenue for you and use private pay to cover the cost.
You Can Use Private Pay To Work On Areas Of Growth
Private pay is also a great option for those looking to go to therapy to work on areas they know they can grow. For example, if you’re looking to work on self-esteem or communication skills. Insurance may not cover it because they don’t deem it necessary or for your mental health condition. It’s not a typical part of the process for them to approve such sessions.
Private pay is perfect for individuals wanting to work on areas they know that they can flourish in. But with a little support. Especially, without having to worry about insurance not covering it. Then there is a. cost you have to pay out of pocket for that you weren’t expecting. Private pay allows you to find these niche therapists and coaches that offer unique services. These can be services such as HSP coaching, art therapy, or, one service we provide, adoption counseling.
Overall, private pay gives you more flexibility in how you want your mental health to be approached and treated. You get to make the decisions on your treatment rather than your insurance basing their decisions on standard policies and procedures. And you get the time needed to heal, grow, and make real progress in your mental health journey.
Choose How Your Mental Health Journey Will Unfold with Private Pay Therapy in Orange County, CA
You may have insurance but that doesn’t mean it always has your best interests in mind. Private pay therapy is an excellent option for those looking to get the freedom and independence they need to make real progress in their mental health journey. At Moxie Family Therapy, we will work with you to find the right treatment plan that will help you address your concerns, heal from past trauma, and make real progress in your mental health journey. Our team of caring therapists is here to help you untie yourself from the restraints of insurance and make your own decisions on how to move forward in your mental health journey. To start your therapy journey at Moxie Family Therapy, please follow these simple steps:
- Contact Moxie Family Therapy
- Meet with a caring therapist
- Begin choosing how your mental health journey will unfold!
Other Therapy Services Offered at Moxie Family Therapy
At Moxie Family Therapy, we know you’re thinking about private pay therapy so you can choose what services you need for your mental health journey. This is why our therapists offer a variety of therapy services so you can find the one that best fits your needs. We provide a variety of therapy services online and in-person at our Orange County, CA-based practice. We offer counseling for young adults, children, women, teens, and couples. Also, we offer therapy for therapists, clinical supervision, counseling for adoption, art therapy, and play therapy. Our team is also happy to support the LGBTQ+ community. Contact us today and we will support you on your journey to reclaiming your moxie.
About the Author
Meet Melissa Mellon, LMFT, a compassionate therapist in Orange County, CA who specializes in helping women navigate the challenges of anxiety. Melissa understands the unique struggles women face and recognizes the therapeutic benefits of connecting with nature to improve mental health. In her practice, Melissa offers a safe and supportive space for women to work through their anxiety and develop effective coping strategies. Drawing on her experience with family conflict and trauma, Melissa helps her clients build fulfilling and healthy lives. Melissa offers a consultation to see if she would be a good fit for you.