Anissa Bell, LMFT
Insurance, Reimbursement & Payment for Therapy in California
Paying for therapy can feel confusing, especially when insurance is involved.
This page explains how payment works in my practice, what “out-of-network” means, how some clients seek reimbursement, and your rights under federal law regarding cost estimates.
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My goal is clarity and transparency, so you can make informed decisions without surprises.
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How Payment Works
I am an out-of-network provider and do not bill insurance directly. Sessions are paid at the time of service. My fee is $200 for a 50-minute session.
Many clients choose this option because it allows access to specialized insomnia and sleep anxiety treatment, consistent care without insurance-imposed limits, and greater flexibility and privacy in treatment.
In-Network vs. Out-of-Network Therapy
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In-network providers bill your insurance directly. Session length, frequency, and treatment approach may be limited by the plan.
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Out-of-network providers are paid directly by the client. Some insurance plans reimburse a portion of the cost after services are provided.
Being out-of-network allows me to provide evidence-based insomnia treatment without restrictions set by insurance companies.
Insurance Reimbursement Basics
Some insurance plans offer out-of-network reimbursement, depending on your specific benefits.
If your plan allows:
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You pay for sessions upfront
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You submit a claim to your insurer
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Your insurance may reimburse part of the cost
Reimbursement is not guaranteed, and clients are responsible for the full session fee regardless of insurance outcome.
Superbills
A superbill is a detailed receipt that includes information insurance companies often require when processing out-of-network claims.
Superbills are provided upon request so clients may submit claims directly to their insurance plan.
Optional Reimbursement Apps
Some clients choose to use third-party tools to simplify submitting out-of-network insurance claims. These services may reduce paperwork but do not guarantee reimbursement and are entirely optional.
Examples include:
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Reimbursify
Helps clients submit and track out-of-network claims digitally. -
Mentaya
Provides benefit estimates and assists with claim submission. -
Thrizer
Submits claims and tracks reimbursement on the client’s behalf.
These services are independent, have their own fees and privacy policies, and operate separately from this practice. I do not receive compensation from these companies and cannot influence insurance decisions or outcomes.
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Why This Information Is Here
This information is included to support transparency and reduce confusion around insurance reimbursement. It is not an endorsement, and clients are never required to use third-party tools. Payment for sessions is always the client’s responsibility, regardless of insurance or reimbursement outcomes.
What I Can and Can’t Do
I’m happy to:
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Provide clear receipts and superbills
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Answer general questions about how out-of-network reimbursement typically works
I’m not able to:
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Contact insurance companies on your behalf
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Predict reimbursement amounts
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Guarantee coverage or approval
Your Right to a Good Faith Estimate
Under the No Surprises Act, you have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate of expected charges for mental health services if you do not have insurance or if you choose not to use insurance.
A Good Faith Estimate:
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Explains the expected cost of therapy services
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Is provided before treatment begins
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Is available upon request at any time
If you receive a bill that is $400 or more above your Good Faith Estimate, you have the right to dispute the bill.
More information about your rights is available at:
https://www.cms.gov/nosurprises
Telehealth Across California
I provide secure online therapy to clients located anywhere in California, in accordance with state licensing laws.
Questions About Payment or Insurance?
If you’re unsure whether out-of-network therapy is the right fit, you’re welcome to reach out or schedule a consultation to discuss your options.