GOOD FAITH ESTIMATE
You have the right to know what therapy will cost before you start.
Under the federal No Surprises Act, you're entitled to a written estimate of what your care will cost if you're uninsured or paying without using insurance.
Who this applies to
You'll receive a Good Faith Estimate if you're paying privately, if I'm out-of-network with your plan, or if you have insurance and choose not to use it for therapy. That last one counts: deciding to pay out of pocket for sessions makes you self-pay, and this right applies to you.
If you're using in-network benefits with Aetna, Highmark, or Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield, your cost is the copay your plan sets, and this notice doesn't apply.
What you'll get
A written estimate that lists the services expected, the codes used to bill them, and what each one costs. You'll receive it before your first session and any time you ask for one.
If we change how often we meet or how long we expect to work together, you'll get an updated estimate.
What therapy costs here
Individual sessions are $185 for 50 minutes. Initial consultations are free.
I hold a limited number of sliding-scale spots, including availability through the Loveland Foundation. If you're approved, your written estimate will reflect your agreed rate.
Most clients meet weekly for three to six months, though that varies a lot depending on what you're working on.
When you'll receive it
Within one business day of scheduling, if your session is at least three business days out. Within three business days, if it's scheduled ten or more business days out. Any time you request one, whether or not you've scheduled anything.
Estimates are sent by email through SimplePractice.
If your bill is higher than your estimate
If a bill from me is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can dispute it through the federal Patient-Provider Dispute Resolution process. There's a $25 filing fee, and you have 120 days from the date on the bill.
Please reach out to me first. Most questions about a bill can be sorted out in one conversation, and I'd rather explain or correct something than have you go through a federal process for it.
To learn more or start a dispute: www.cms.gov/nosurprises or 1-800-985-3059
Questions
Ask me anything about fees, at any point. Nothing here is a test you have to pass before bringing it up.
Akilah J. Pierre, LMFT · Therapy with Akilah, LLC
akilah@therapywithakilah.com · 610-227-5071