Using Insurance for Trauma Therapy in Northern Virginia

I am in-network with Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield. If you have Anthem coverage, you can use your benefits for EMDR therapy, Brainspotting, and trauma-focused counseling at Nivalis Counseling.

What that means for you

Your cost per session depends on your specific Anthem plan — your deductible, copay, and whether you have met your out-of-pocket maximum. The easiest way to find out what you will owe is to call the member services number on the back of your insurance card and ask:

  • Do I have mental health benefits?
  • What is my copay or coinsurance for outpatient therapy?
  • Do I have a deductible, and how much have I met?
  • Is prior authorization required?

I can also help you think through what your benefits mean in practical terms once we connect.

What if I don’t have Anthem?

If you carry a different insurance plan, I work with clients on a private pay basis. Sessions are $180 for a 53-minute session. If you have out-of-network benefits, I can provide a superbill – a detailed receipt you submit to your insurance company for reimbursement.

If cost is a barrier, I have a limited number of reduced-fee spots available, so please reach out. I would rather work something out than have you not get the help you need.

HSA and FSA accounts

Therapy is an eligible expense under most health savings and flexible spending accounts. If you have an HSA or FSA, those funds can typically be applied to your sessions regardless of whether you are using insurance or paying privately.

A note on why I still take insurance

Accepting insurance in a private practice is not the financially straightforward choice it might appear to be. Reimbursement rates have not kept pace with the cost of running a practice, and the administrative burden is real. I continue to accept Anthem because access to quality trauma therapy matters, and I want cost to be as small a barrier as possible for the people I work with.

I am transparent about this because it is part of how I practice: no pretense, no fine print, no surprises.