Out-of-Network vs. Self-Pay: What’s the Difference?
Download our free Self Pay Vs Out of Network Benefits Explanation PDF
Out-of-Network Mental Health Care
We are an out-of-network provider and do not bill insurance directly. We’re happy to provide superbills (detailed receipts) that you can submit to your insurance for potential reimbursement.
If you are concerned about the process of submitting a superbill, check out Reimbursify, Thrizer, which are services designed to take care of superbill billing on your behalf.
FSA/HSA/Health Savings Cards, Credit Cards, and Debit Cards are all accepted.
At Onward Growth Psychiatry, we want you to feel empowered in your mental health journey—including how you pay for care. If you’re wondering about the difference between out-of-network and self-pay, you’re not alone.
What is Self-Pay (Private Pay) Mental Health Care?
Self-pay means you pay directly for your care without using insurance at all. You are responsible for the full session fee at the time of your appointment.
The Benefits of Self-Pay:
- No diagnosis required
- Full privacy—no reporting to insurance
- More flexible, personalized treatment
- No restrictions on session length or frequency
- No surprise denials or insurance delays
Self-pay gives you the freedom to choose care that fits your needs—not your insurance company’s criteria.
What Does Out-of-Network Mean?
If you have a PPO or other plan with out-of-network mental health benefits, you may be eligible for partial reimbursement after paying out of pocket.
Here’s how it works:
- You pay the session fee up front.
- We provide a superbill (detailed receipt).
- You submit the superbill to your insurance.
- Your insurer may reimburse a portion based on your plan.
While we do not bill insurance directly, many clients receive 30–80% reimbursement from their out-of-network benefits.
Can I Get Reimbursed for My Therapy Sessions?
Yes, if your insurance includes out-of-network benefits. You’ll pay upfront and submit a superbill to your insurance company for potential reimbursement.
How do I know if I have out-of-network coverage?
You can check your insurance benefits online or by calling your insurance company. Look for ‘out-of-network mental health coverage’ and ask about reimbursement rates and required documentation.
What areas of the state do you serve?
We offer trauma-informed, integrative mental health care for clients throughout Virginia via telehealth, including in Richmond, NOVA, Charlottesville, and Virginia Beach.
What are the benefits of self-pay?
Self-pay offers greater privacy, no required diagnosis, longer session times, and fully personalized care without insurance limitations or delays.
Who should choose self-pay?
Choose self-pay if you want complete privacy, flexibility, and control over your care.
Who should choose out of network?
Use out-of-network reimbursement if you’d like to offset costs through your insurance benefits.
Quick Comparison:
| Feature | Self-Pay | Out-of-Network Reimbursement |
|---|---|---|
| Uses insurance? | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (you submit claim) |
| Requires diagnosis? | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Payment due at session? | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Eligible for reimbursement? | ❌ No | ✅ Possibly, if your plan allows |
| Privacy from insurance? | ✅ Yes | ❌ No (requires some reporting) |
Private Pay Psychiatry Costs at Onward Growth
Costs for Therapy and Medication Management:
- New client visits: $300 (60-minute appointment)
- 30-minute follow up: $150
- 60-minute follow up (therapy + medication management, or therapy only): $300
ADHD evaluations:
- ADHD evaluation and written report: $450
Autism Evaluations:
- Tabitha specializes in Autism evaluations and provides services for children 5 and over.
- See our Autism Evaluation Prices
Other Services:
Please note clients with outstanding balances cannot schedule appointments.
Please see the FAQs for questions regarding cancellations and fees.
No Surprises Act:
You have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” explaining how much your medical care will cost. Under the law, health care providers need to give patients who don’t have insurance or who are not using insurance an estimate of the bill for medical items and services. You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency items or services. You can also ask your healthcare provider, and any other provider you choose, for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule an item or service. If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can dispute the bill. Make sure to save a copy or picture of your Good Faith Estimate. For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises.