Good Faith Estimate

As of January 1, 2022, the “No Surprises Act” requires all healthcare providers, including psychotherapists, to provide a Good Faith Estimate (GFE) to clients who are either uninsured or self-pay. This estimate is designed to help you understand the potential costs of therapy services, ensuring transparency and helping you make informed decisions about your care.

What is a Good Faith Estimate?
A Good Faith Estimate is a written statement that outlines the expected costs of your psychotherapy services. It includes the following information:
 1.  The Estimated Cost of Services: This includes the cost per session and the total estimated cost over a set period, such as a month or a year, based on the frequency of your appointments.
 2. Scope of Services: The GFE will outline the type of services you are expected to receive, such as individual therapy, couples therapy, or group therapy.
 3. Potential Additional Costs: While the estimate will cover most standard costs, it may also include information about any additional costs that could arise, such as missed appointment fees or costs for specialized assessments.

Why is a Good Faith Estimate Important?
The GFE helps you plan for the financial aspect of your therapy. It provides transparency so that there are no surprises when it comes to your billing. This way, you can focus on your mental health without worrying about unexpected costs.

When Will You Receive Your Good Faith Estimate?
You will receive your Good Faith Estimate before you begin therapy or upon request at any time during your treatment. If your treatment plan changes significantly, a new GFE will be provided to reflect those changes.

What to Do If Your Actual Costs Exceed the Estimate
While the GFE is designed to be accurate, actual costs may sometimes exceed the estimate. If your final bill is more than $400 over the Good Faith Estimate, you may have the right to dispute the charges.

How to Request a Good Faith Estimate
If you’re considering therapy or already in treatment and would like a Good Faith Estimate, please contact me. I’m here to answer any questions and provide the information you need to make the best decision for your mental health and financial situation.