Insurance Questions
Why aren't LifeWorks counselors on any insurance plans?
It has been our experience that managed care insurance plans have, in recent years, become more trouble than they are worth, for both the client and the clinician. The well-being of the client is often less important than the insurance company's drive to collect fees. For example, with many insurance plans, client confidentiality is frequently compromised in an effort to get sessions authorized. A client's therapeutic needs are often governed by the limited choices allowed by a particular plan. These problems, along with exponentially increased overhead required to run a managed care practice, led us to make a conscious choice to stay off the managed care bandwagon. It does cost us some business, but we feel that our clients receive better care because weve made this decision.
How do I know if my out-of-network insurance covers counseling?>
You can call the number on your insurance card and ask about your out-of-network mental/nervous benefits. Or bring your card to your first appointment. Your LifeWorks therapist will be happy to check your benefits on your behalf.
Its such a hassle to fill out forms and send them in. What does LifeWorks do to help?
We provide clients with a receipt, at the end of every session, containing all the information necessary to file a claim with insurance companies. We are glad to assist you in following-up, with your insurance company.
What do I do if my insurance doesn't cover any out-of-network groups?
Several LifeWorks therapists or interns work on a sliding scale basis. We have a fee level for everyone. Our strong conviction is that money should NEVER be a reason NOT to come.
I don't have insurance benefits, and I can only afford to come once a month. What good is that going to do?
With the rare exception of acute, crisis-oriented cases, it has been our collective experience as clinicians that there is nothing magical about weekly sessions. People who come only once a month can experience the same degree of progress as people who can come more often. The only variable is how much YOU are willing to work in therapy. If you're working hard, the therapy will be working hard for you as well.