Insurance & Fees
Understanding the financial aspects of therapy
I believe that quality mental health care should be accessible. This page provides information about my fee structure and insurance options to help you make informed decisions about your therapy journey.
If you have questions about fees or insurance that aren't answered here, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.
Standard Fees
| Service | Duration | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Assessment/Intake | 60 minutes | $175 |
| Individual Therapy Session | 55 minutes | $175 |
| Couples Therapy Session | 55 minutes | $175 |
Payment is due at the time of service. I accept major credit cards, HSA/FSA cards, and checks.
Insurance
In-Network Insurance Plans
Yes, Deborah Mestas is an in-network provider for the following insurance plans:
- BCBS Illinois
- Aetna
- United Healthcare
- Cigna
- Optum
If you have one of these insurance plans, I will bill your insurance directly. You will be responsible for any copays, coinsurance, or deductibles as determined by your specific plan.
Checking Your Insurance Benefits
Call the member services number on the back of your insurance card. Ask about your "outpatient mental health benefits" for in-network providers. Key questions to ask include:
- What is my copay or coinsurance for mental health services?
- Do I have a deductible for mental health services, and if so, how much of it have I met this year?
- How many therapy sessions are covered per calendar year?
- Do I need pre-authorization or a referral for mental health services?
- Are there any limitations on the types of mental health services covered?
I'm happy to verify your benefits before your first appointment, but it's always a good idea to understand your coverage directly from your insurance provider.
Sliding Scale
I am committed to making therapy accessible to those in need. I offer a limited number of sliding scale slots based on financial need and current availability.
If you are experiencing financial hardship, please mention this during our initial contact so we can discuss potential options. Sliding scale rates typically range from $80-$120 per session, depending on your circumstances.
Cancellation Policy
I require 24 hours' notice for cancellations or rescheduling. Late cancellations (less than 24 hours before the appointment) and missed sessions will be charged the full session fee, except in cases of genuine emergency.
This policy is in place because your appointment time is reserved exclusively for you. With advance notice, I can often offer that time to another client who may be waiting for an appointment.
Good Faith Estimate
Under the No Surprises Act, healthcare providers are required to provide a "Good Faith Estimate" of expected charges for services to individuals who are uninsured or who are not using insurance benefits.
You have the right to receive this estimate of the expected charges for your therapy services before your appointment. This estimate is based on information known at the time it was created and does not include any unknown or unexpected costs that may arise during treatment.
If you would like to receive a Good Faith Estimate before beginning therapy, please let me know, and I will provide one based on the anticipated frequency and duration of your treatment.
Questions About Fees or Insurance?
I understand that navigating the financial aspects of therapy can sometimes be confusing. If you have any questions about my fees, insurance, or payment options, please don't hesitate to reach out.