I do not work directly with insurance companies, but many clients are able to receive partial reimbursement or credit to their deductible by using superbills. I’m often asked what a superbill is, how it works, and what to expect from the process. This handout is meant to offer a clear overview so you know exactly what role superbills play in your care and how to navigate them without confusion.

What a Superbill Is

A superbill is a detailed receipt you can submit to your insurance company for out-of-network reimbursement. It is not a bill you owe. It’s simply the document your insurer needs in order to consider paying you back for part of your therapy costs.

Why I Use Superbills Instead of Billing Insurance Directly

Insurance companies typically reimburse therapists far below their actual rates—often 30–50% less than private-pay fees, sometimes even lower. Staying out-of-network protects the time and attention I devote to each client. It also means I do not have to “justify medical necessity,” a process that can lead insurers to recoup payments they have already made.

By not spending hours each week on insurance paperwork, appeals, and audits, I’m able to stay fully focused on clinical work. This creates a steadier, more responsive service for the people I work with, and it allows my practice to have other “build-outs,” such as a helpful website.

How to Request a Superbill From Me

You can request a superbill by sending me an email. I can generate them monthly or for a specific date range. You’ll receive it as a PDF, and you submit it directly to your insurance company.

What Information Appears on a Superbill

A superbill includes a lot of information. Int includes a lot of sensitive information, too. The items insurance companies require for processing a claim: your diagnosis code, the service code (CPT code), the date and length of the session, the fee paid, my credentials, and my NPI number. Some insurers may have additional requirements

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What You Need to Find Out From Your Insurance Company

Nobody enjoys calling their insurance company. When you do get an agent on the phone, ask them the following questions:

• Do I have out-of-network benefits for mental health services?
• What is my out-of-network deductible, and how much of it have I met this year?
• What is the reimbursement rate for CPT code 90837 with an out-of-network provider?
• What is the “allowed amount” you use to calculate reimbursement for that code?
• How and where do I submit a superbill for reimbursement?
• Is there any unusual information you require on the superbill (like start and stop times?) </aside>

Privacy and Confidentiality Note

Submitting a superbill means sharing certain clinical details with your insurer, including a diagnosis code. I only include what is required for reimbursement—nothing more. Whether you involve your insurance company is entirely your decision.