Fees & Billing

Why We Are an “Out-of-Network” Provider

At Bear’s Pathway Counseling, we choose to operate as a private-pay (or out-of-network) practice rather than contracting with insurance companies. We believe this model allows us to provide the highest quality, most personalized care for our clients.

Why We Don’t Accept Insurance

We believe that the focus of care should be on clients and clinicians, not driven by corporate interests. We’ve observed that the current healthcare system often falls short when it comes to helping individuals achieve their treatment goals.

When clients opt for in-network providers, they may encounter several challenges: 

• A restricted selection of experienced, qualified practitioners
• Limitations on coverage for marriage and relationship counseling, often requiring one partner to have a qualifying mental health diagnosis, with this stipulation not always communicated when billing 
• Inability to access evidence-based treatments tailored to their specific issues
• Mandatory diagnoses, even for young children
• Privacy concerns that could lead to significant legal and employment repercussions
• Barriers to seeking assistance for general wellness or quick resolution of problems

No “Medical Necessity” Required

Many people seek therapy for life transitions, personal growth, or relationship issues that do not qualify for a “medical necessity” diagnosis. We believe in your right to seek counseling for any reason without needing to be “diagnosed”.

Your Privacy Comes First

To pay for services, insurance companies require a formal mental health diagnosis, which becomes part of your permanent medical record. By not accepting insurance, your personal information stays strictly between you and your therapist.

You Control Your Care

Insurance companies often dictate the type, frequency, and duration of therapy sessions. Without these restrictions, we can tailor your treatment to your unique needs, not to what an insurance policy covers.

Direct Focus on You

Dealing with insurance bureaucracy—claims, denials, and auditing—takes time away from client care. Private pay allows us to invest our energy directly into your healing.

How to Use Your Insurance (Out-of-Network)

If you have a PPO plan, you may have “out-of-network” benefits. We can provide you with a Superbill—a detailed receipt that you can submit to your insurance company for potential partial reimbursement

Contact Us

If you have questions about our fees and billing please contact our Clinical Director:

Kathy Carter
Email: kathy@bearspathwaycounseling.com
Phone: (936) 213-5440