Payment Methods & Insurance | Therapy Costs DC Maryland Virginia

Payment Methods & Insurance Information

Transparent Pricing for Mental Health Services in Washington, DC and DMV

How Do I Pay for Therapy Sessions?

Payment Requirements

  • Full payment due at time of service for all sessions and fees
  • Major credit cards accepted including Visa, MasterCard, American Express
  • HSA/FSA cards accepted (must have credit card logos)
  • Secure storage of payment information in encrypted electronic medical records

What Insurance Plans Are Accepted?

In-Network Coverage

CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield Plans

  • Most CareFirst PPO and Blue Shield plans accepted
  • Direct claim submission to insurance
  • You pay copay/deductible only at time of service

Important: You must verify your specific plan coverage before your appointment:

  • Call your insurance or check online portal
  • Ask for "Joseph LaFleur" or "Joseph LaFleur and Associates"
  • Confirm copays, deductibles, and coverage details

Out-of-Network Coverage

All Other Insurance Plans

  • You pay full fee at time of service
  • We submit claims electronically when possible
  • Insurance reimburses you directly
  • Monthly invoices provided for your records

Common billing codes: 90791 (intake), 90837 (standard session)

Self-Pay Rates

Service Code Duration Rate
Intake/Assessment 90791 16-60 minutes $205
Standard Session 90837 55 minutes $205
Short Session 90834 35-45 minutes $185
Consultation 90832 Up to 30 minutes $150

Family and relationship counseling also available when offered ($205 for 55 minutes; extended sessions negotiable).

Sliding scale fees may be available for financial hardship. Please discuss during your initial consultation.

How Does Insurance Billing Work?

In-Network Process

  1. Verify coverage before first appointment
  2. Pay copay/deductible at time of service
  3. We handle all insurance claim submission
  4. No additional paperwork required

Out-of-Network Process

  1. Pay full session fee at appointment
  2. We submit electronic claims when possible
  3. Insurance reimburses you directly
  4. Monthly invoices provided upon request

Financial Considerations & Payment Policies

Transparent, Accessible Mental Health Care

We understand that therapy represents a significant financial investment in your mental health and wellbeing. Our practice is committed to providing transparent pricing and working with clients to make mental health services as accessible as possible within our operational requirements.

We maintain clear financial policies to ensure sustainable, quality care for all clients while offering flexibility when possible.

Our Commitment to Affordable Care

  • All fees, copays, and payment requirements are clearly outlined before treatment begins
  • No hidden costs or surprise charges
  • Detailed explanation of insurance coverage and out-of-pocket expenses
  • Regular communication about any changes to financial arrangements

Financial Assistance Options

Available Support:

  • Sliding scale fees for qualified individuals experiencing financial hardship
  • Payment plans for self-pay clients when arranged in advance
  • Insurance maximization - helping you understand and use your benefits effectively
  • Flexible scheduling to accommodate work schedules and reduce time off

Requirements for Financial Assistance:

  • Honest disclosure of financial circumstances during initial consultation
  • Advance communication about financial challenges rather than after services are rendered
  • Commitment to agreed-upon payment arrangements
  • Regular reassessment of financial assistance needs

Early Communication is Essential

If you have financial concerns, please discuss them during your initial consultation. Early communication allows us to explore all available payment options, determine eligibility for sliding scale fees, plan a sustainable treatment approach within your budget, and avoid financial stress that could impact your therapeutic progress.

Waiting to discuss financial constraints until after receiving services significantly limits our ability to offer assistance or alternative arrangements.

When Financial Issues Arise

If financial circumstances change during treatment:

  • Communicate immediately rather than avoiding payment discussions
  • Schedule a brief consultation to review options
  • Explore modified treatment plans if necessary
  • Consider referral resources if our services become unaffordable

Collaborative Solutions:

  • Temporary adjustment of session frequency
  • Brief treatment planning for immediate stabilization
  • Connection to community resources and lower-cost options
  • Maintenance sessions during financial recovery periods

Frequently Asked Questions About Payment

"Do you accept my insurance plan?"
We are in-network with most CareFirst and Blue Cross Blue Shield plans. For all other insurance, you must verify coverage by calling your plan directly.
"What if I don't have insurance?"
We offer self-pay rates starting at $150 for consultations and $205 for standard therapy sessions. Sliding scale fees may be available for financial hardship.
"When do I need to pay?"
Payment is required in full at the time of each service. We securely store your payment method for convenience.
"Can I use my HSA or FSA card?"
Yes, HSA and FSA cards with credit card logos are accepted for mental health services.
"Will you help with insurance paperwork?"
Yes, we submit claims directly for in-network plans and provide detailed invoices for out-of-network reimbursement. We also submit electronically to most major insurance plans which we are out of network on your behalf. You pay CPJLA at the time of services and we submit the claim. Once the claim is submitted, your insurance will pay you directly for any reimbursement.

Contact for Payment Questions

We encourage open dialogue about financial concerns before they become barriers to your mental health care.

Your mental health is important. Let's work together to find a sustainable path forward.