Counseling Insurance Benefits
Self Pay Vs. Insurance
When it comes to counseling insurance benefits it is important that you know Becky Peterson Counseling does not take insurance. My decision to not accept insurance is motivated by my desire to ensure my clients receive the best care possible.
Why don't I take insurance?
Many clients have asked this same question and there are a variety of reasons I do not work directly with insurance companies. Serving you with the best possible care is my priority. I believe self pay provides the best possible care for my clients.
we're not alone
You may not realize that when you use your insurance, there is another person in the room - your insurance company. In order to use your benefits, I will be required to disclose, with your consent, your personal information in order to verify your eligibility, preauthorize services, and process claims to obtain payment.
This includes such things as:
the nature of your issues for counseling
psychiatric diagnosis
your treatment plan
how long you will have the problem.
I will need to label you
I would need to label you, or one of you. Insurance companies require a mental health diagnosis to process your claim.
At times you may be seeking therapy as a check-in to gain a new perspective as you navigate life's challenges. Some couples may wish to work on their relationship with their partner or on being a better parent. For couples and families in therapy, one person in the couple or family must be given a diagnosis for us to proceed with our work.
I believe that receiving a diagnosis when appropriate can be helpful. However, a diagnosis can come with consequences in the future, such as compromising your ability to obtain life, health, disability, or long-term care insurance. Once you have received a diagnosis it follows you the rest of your life. If you choose to work with a self-pay therapist, your information is not released to the Medical Information Bureau. If we discuss a diagnosis together, it will be kept confidential between us within the boundaries of confidentiality.
i want to partner with you in your care
My desire is for you to be actively involved in determining what your goals are, how we will work together, and when we are finished. Many insurance companies limit your choices and treatment options, as they determine what is "medically necessary" and what they deem is the most efficient treatment.
Your Health savings account (HSA)
If you have an HSA please check with your provider. You may be able to use these funds to pay for your sessions.