Why Many Therapists in New Jersey Don’t Take Insurance: Understanding Out-of-Network Care!
If you’re searching for a therapist in New Jersey—particularly in counties like Bergen, Essex, Morris, or Passaic—you may have noticed that many private practitioners do not accept insurance. Instead, they operate as “out-of-network providers.” While this can initially feel confusing or frustrating, there are important reasons why many therapists choose this model and benefits for you as the client.
What Is Out-of-Network Therapy?
When a therapist is “out-of-network” (OON), it means they are not contracted with any insurance companies. Instead, clients pay for sessions directly, and, if their health plan includes out-of-network benefits, they can submit receipts to their insurer for potential reimbursement. Providers can also submit claims for their clients as well so they don’t have to do superbills.
This model gives both the therapist and the client more freedom, flexibility, and privacy in how therapy is conducted.
Why Do So Many Therapists Choose to Stay Out-of-Network?
There are several key reasons:
1. Increased Quality and Time for Each Client.
Insurance billing comes with a significant administrative burden: paperwork, pre-authorizations, and time spent appealing denied claims. By staying out-of-network, therapists can spend more time preparing for sessions, developing customized treatment plans, and focusing fully on the therapeutic process. Therapist can also see less clients this way and provide better quality care.
2. Greater Privacy and Confidentiality
When insurance is used, therapists must provide a diagnosis and often submit detailed notes about a client’s treatment. Many individuals prefer the discretion of out-of-network therapy, especially when discussing sensitive or deeply personal concerns. Insurance can still ask for diagnosis and notes when you are out-of-network but it happens much less often.
3. Freedom from Treatment Restrictions
Insurance companies often dictate the number of sessions allowed or the types of treatment covered. Out-of-network therapists can provide care based on clinical expertise, not insurance limitations, allowing for a more flexible and personalized approach.
4. Highly Specialized Care
Therapists with specialized training in areas such as anxiety disorders, OCD, eating disorders, trauma, or couples therapy often choose to work outside of insurance networks. This allows them to offer niche services tailored to their areas of expertise without compromise.
How Reimbursement Works:
Many clients are surprised to learn that they can still use their insurance—just differently. If your plan includes out-of-network mental health benefits, here’s what the process typically looks like:
You pay your therapist at the time of service.
You receive a superbill (a detailed receipt).
You submit it to your insurance company.
Depending on your plan, you may receive partial reimbursement.
Therapists can also submit claims for clients.
Some clients use apps or services to streamline this process. Your therapist may also provide guidance.
Is Out-of-Network Therapy Right for You?
If you’re seeking therapy with a high degree of personalization, privacy, and flexibility, out-of-network care may be a worthwhile investment. Many clients find that the benefits outweigh the hassle of submitting claims, especially when working with a provider who offers specialized support and consistent care.
At Clear Light Therapy, we work with adults and couples across New Jersey, offering expert care for anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, and more. We’re happy to answer questions about fees, insurance reimbursement, and how to make therapy work for your needs.
Interested in therapy in Bergen, Essex, or Morris County?
We offer both in-person and virtual sessions throughout New Jersey.
📍 Based in Englewood, NJ | Serving all of New Jersey virtually
📞 609-384-4874
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