Clear, honest pricing so you know what to expect

Starting therapy can feel like a big step—and cost is often one of the biggest questions. My goal is to make this process as transparent and straightforward as possible so you can focus on what matters most: getting the support you need.

I provide individual therapy, couples counseling and telehealth services across Iowa. I work with both insurance and private pay clients.

Disclaimer: I do not want cost to be the reason you avoid getting support. If finances are a concern, I encourage you to talk with me so we can explore options together.

I offer flexibility when possible, including payment arrangements or adjusted scheduling based on need. The most important piece is open communication so we can find a plan that feels workable and sustainable.

How much does therapy cost with insurance?

If you’re using insurance, your cost depends on your specific plan. This may include:

  • Copay (a set fee per session)
  • Coinsurance (a percentage of the session cost)
  • Deductible (amount you pay before coverage begins)

For many clients, sessions can range anywhere from $0–$250 per session, depending on coverage and deductibles.

If you’re unsure, you can contact your insurance provider and ask:

  • Do I have mental health benefits?
  • What is my copay for outpatient therapy?
  • Do I have a deductible, and has it been met?
  • Is telehealth covered?

How much does therapy cost without insurance?

If you are not using insurance, private pay options are available.

Session rates:

  • Individual therapy: $200 per session
  • Couples therapy: $200 per session

Private pay offers more flexibility, including:

  • No diagnosis required
  • Greater privacy (no insurance records)
  • More control over your treatment plan

Is therapy worth the cost?

This is a real and important question.

Therapy is an investment—not just financially, but in your emotional well-being, relationships and long-term quality of life. Many clients find that therapy helps them:

  • Improve relationships and communication
  • Reduce anxiety, stress, and overwhelm
  • Heal from past experiences
  • Build confidence and clarity
  • Feel more like themselves again

What if I'm not sure if I can afford therapy?

If cost is a concern, you’re not alone—and you still have options.

We can:

  • Review your insurance benefits together
  • Explore the most cost-effective approach
  • Discuss frequency of sessions to fit your budget
  • Discuss using a sliding fee scale that works with your financial situation

The goal is to make therapy accessible and sustainable, not overwhelming.

Insurance 

Pros

  • Lower out-of-pocket cost (copays are often more affordable)
  • Makes ongoing therapy more financially accessible
  • May allow for consistent, long-term support
  • You can use benefits you’re already paying for

Cons

  • A mental health diagnosis is required for coverage
  • Insurance may limit the number or type of sessions
  • Less flexibility in treatment approach or frequency
  • Your information is shared with the insurance company
  • You may still have deductibles or unexpected costs

Self-Pay

Pros

  • No diagnosis required
  • Full privacy—no information shared with insurance
  • Greater flexibility in how often and how long you attend therapy
  • Treatment is tailored fully to your needs, not insurance requirements
  • No restrictions on types of therapy used

Cons

  • Higher upfront cost per session
  • Not reimbursed unless you pursue out-of-network benefits
  • May feel less accessible for some budgets

Sliding - Fee Scale

Pros

  • Makes therapy more accessible if finances are a barrier
  • Allows you to receive support without full session cost
  • Can create a more sustainable path to ongoing care

Cons

  • Limited availability (may not always be open)
  • May require discussion of financial situation
  • Not a long-term option for all clients depending on demand

Insurance: What You Need to Know

Using insurance to pay for therapy can help lower your out-of-pocket costs, but it can also be confusing. Here’s a simple breakdown of the most common terms so you know exactly what to expect:

 

🧾 Deductible

This is the amount you have to pay out of your own pocket each year before your insurance starts covering anything.

Example: If your deductible is $500, you’ll pay the full cost of sessions until you’ve paid $500 total. After that, your insurance may kick in.

 

💳 Copay

This is a fixed amount you pay for each session after your deductible is met.

Example: Your copay might be $30 per session.

 

📊 Coinsurance

Instead of a flat fee, coinsurance is a percentage you pay of the session cost once your deductible is met.

Example: If your coinsurance is 30%, and the session is $250, you pay $75 and insurance pays the rest.

 

🏥 In-Network vs. Out-of-Network

  • In-Network: I’m contracted with your insurance company. They’ve agreed on certain rates, so your cost may be lower.

  • Out-of-Network: I’m not contracted with your plan, but you may still get partial reimbursement if you have out-of-network benefits.

A Quick Note on Diagnosis

To use insurance, I’m required to give you a mental health diagnosis (like anxiety, depression, etc.) that justifies the need for treatment. This becomes part of your permanent health record, which some clients prefer to avoid.

* If you're unsure what your benefits look like, I’m happy to help you figure it out or provide the info you need to check with your insurance company directly.

Script to Check Your Mental Health Benefits

When you call the number on the back of your insurance card (usually listed as “member services” or “behavioral health”), you can say:

"Hi, I’m calling to check my mental health benefits for outpatient therapy. I’d like to know what’s covered if I see a licensed therapist. Can I ask a few questions?"

Then ask the following:

  1. Do I have coverage for outpatient mental health therapy?

  2. Is [Your Name] an in-network provider with my plan?
    (If you are out-of-network, change to: “Do I have out-of-network benefits for therapy?”)

  3. Do I have a deductible for mental health services?

    • How much is it?

    • How much of it have I already met?

  4. What is my copay or coinsurance per session once the deductible is met?

  5. Is there a limit to the number of therapy sessions per year?

  6. Do I need pre-authorization or a referral to begin therapy?

Helpful Tip

Take notes and ask for a reference number for the call in case you need to follow up.

If you have trouble or want help figuring this out, feel free to reach out — I’m happy to guide you through it.