CASH PAY VS INSURANCE

The main advantage of cash pay is that a mental health diagnosis is not required. Some people would prefer not to have a diagnosis attached to them as mental health diagnoses can be considered in various decision-making processes. Here are a few examples:

1. Insurance Companies: They may use mental health information to determine coverage and premiums.
2. Government Agencies: Certain benefits or services may be influenced by mental health status.
3. Background Checks/Security Clearances: Employers, especially in sensitive positions, may review mental health history.
4. Military: Mental health can impact eligibility for service.
5. Court Proceedings: Mental health records can be relevant in legal cases.

Additionally, cash pay allows you more session freedom. Insurance determines session length, frequency and number of sessions. Insurance companies only cover certain diagnoses and methods of treatment. Paying cash enables you to have longer sessions at your preferred frequency. 

If you have a high deductible plan it may be less expensive for you to pay out of pocket using a sliding scale model than to pay the price negotiated by your insurance company.