Busting the Myths: Out-of-Network Therapy Benefits Aren’t as Complicated as You Think
- Ana Pais
- Sep 3, 2025
- 3 min read
Navigating the world of health insurance can feel like learning a foreign language, especially when it comes to therapy. One of the most misunderstood topics? Out-of-Network Therapy Benefits. Many people assume that if a therapist isn't in-network, they're automatically too expensive, not covered, or not worth the effort. But the truth is, using your out-of-network benefits can be more accessible and affordable than you think.
Let's bust some common myths and empower you to make informed decisions about your mental health care.
🧠 Myth #1: "Out-of-network therapy isn't covered by insurance."
Truth: Many insurance plans offer out-of-network benefits, especially PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) plans. This means you can see a therapist of your choice—even if they're not in your insurance network—and still get reimbursed for a portion of the cost. You just need to understand your plan's OON benefits, which are usually outlined under "behavioral health" or "mental health services."
👉 Pro Tip: Call your insurance provider or check your member portal for details on OON coverage, deductibles, and reimbursement rates.
💸 Myth #2: "It's way too expensive to pay out-of-pocket first."
Truth: While you may pay your therapist directly, many clients are surprised by how much they get reimbursed, sometimes 60–80% of the session cost, once their deductible is met. Additionally, therapists often provide a superbill, which is a receipt containing all the information your insurance needs to process the claim.
👉 Even Better: At Frontline Counseling Center, we partner with a third-party billing company called Thrizer, which automates the entire claims process. This means our clients don't have to deal with insurance paperwork at all—we handle it for you so that you can focus on your healing, not the logistics.
🧾 Myth #3: "Filing for reimbursement is too complicated."
Truth: Filing a claim is usually easier than people expect. Many insurance companies now accept digital submissions via their apps or websites. And if you're working with a therapist at Frontline Counseling Center, you don't have to lift a finger; we'll take care of the claims for you through Thrizer.
👉 Pro Tip: Let us know you'd like to use your out-of-network benefits, and we'll get you set up with Thrizer from day one.
🧍 Myth #4: "I should only choose a therapist in-network."
Truth: While in-network providers can be more convenient financially, they're not always the best clinical fit. Out-of-network therapy gives you the freedom to choose someone who specializes in your needs, offers your preferred approach, or feels like the right match.
👉 Bottom line: The therapeutic relationship is one of the most significant predictors of success in therapy. Finding the right fit matters more than being in-network.
🏥 Myth #5: "Out-of-network is only for the wealthy."
Truth: Out-of-network therapy is more accessible than many people realize, especially with reimbursement and sliding scale options. Many therapists are also transparent about costs and can help you understand your options.
👉 At Frontline Counseling Center, we strive to make high-quality care accessible. We'll walk you through your coverage and explain exactly what to expect, no surprises, no guesswork.
Final Thoughts: Your Mental Health Is Worth It
Using your out-of-network benefits doesn't have to be a headache. In fact, it can be the key to getting high-quality, personalized therapy from a provider who truly understands your needs.
And if you're working with us at Frontline Counseling Center, it gets even easier. With Thrizer handling the insurance side of things, you can focus on what really matters:
your growth, healing, and well-being.
Want to learn more about how your out-of-network benefits work? Contact us today, and we'll be happy to check your benefits, explain your coverage, and show you how stress-free therapy billing can really be.
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