Insurance, Payment, & Fee Information
We understand that discussing finances can feel overwhelming when you're already seeking support. At Blackbird Psychological Services, we're committed to transparency about costs and payment options, so you can focus on what matters most.
Insurance Information
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Anthem BCBS
IU Health Plans
Medicare
Lyra Health
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Understanding insurance terms can make navigating coverage easier. Here's a simple breakdown of common terms you'll encounter:
Deductible: The amount you must pay before your insurance begins covering services
Copay: A fixed amount you pay per session (e.g., $25 each visit)
Coinsurance: A percentage of costs you share with insurance after meeting your deductible
Out-of-pocket maximum: The most you'll pay during your policy period before insurance covers 100%
In-network provider: A therapist who has contracted with your insurance company (like our clinicians with Anthem, IU Health, Medicare, and Lyra)
Out-of-network provider: A therapist not contracted with your insurance (we can provide superbills for reimbursement)
Superbill: A detailed receipt you can submit to insurance for possible reimbursement
Verification of benefits: The process of checking what your specific plan covers (we do this for you before your first appointment)
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If you plan to use insurance benefits with Dr. Nixon or Dr. Sadler:
Before your first appointment: We'll verify we are in your network.
At your appointment: We'll collect any copay, coinsurance, or deductible due
After your session: We'll file claims directly with your insurance provider
Statement of benefits: Your insurance will send you a statement explaining what was covered
Please note that using insurance requires us to provide a mental health diagnosis, which becomes part of your permanent medical record. Insurance may also limit the number of sessions or type of treatment covered.
Private Pay Options
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Many clients choose private pay options even when they have insurance coverage. Here's why:
Complete privacy: No mental health diagnosis shared with insurance companies
Flexibility in treatment: You and your therapist decide what's best without insurance limitations
No session limits: Continue therapy based on your needs, not insurance allowances
Choice of therapist: Work with the best specialist for your needs, regardless of network status
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Confidentiality: Your therapy remains completely private
No diagnosis required: We don't need to label you with a diagnosis for billing purposes
Flexible session length: Options for shorter check-ins or longer intensive sessions
Comprehensive care: Address all your concerns without limiting to "covered" issues
Choice in providers: Work with the therapist who's the best fit regardless of insurance panels
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Good news—mental health therapy is considered a qualified medical expense for both Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs). Here's what you should know:
Eligible services: Individual therapy, couples counseling, and psychological assessments are all eligible expenses
Documentation: We provide detailed receipts that meet IRS requirements for HSA/FSA reimbursement
Direct payment: You can use your HSA/FSA debit card at our office just like a regular credit card
Tax advantages: Using pre-tax dollars from your HSA/FSA for therapy can provide significant savings
Year-end planning: Consider pre-paying for January sessions in December if you have FSA funds that might expire
If you're unsure whether your specific HSA/FSA plan covers our services, we're happy to help you verify coverage before your first appointment.
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Under the No Surprises Act that went into effect January 1, 2022, healthcare providers must provide a Good Faith Estimate of expected charges to individuals who are uninsured or not using insurance for services.
You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate explaining how much your therapy will cost. When you schedule a service or upon request, we'll provide a written estimate of the total expected charges for sessions, including costs for assessments, therapy services, and any other expenses related to your care.
For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises or call (800) 985-3059.
Payment Policies
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We accept:
Credit/debit cards
Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
Out-of-network benefits (we provide superbills)
Payment is due at the time of service.
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We understand that life happens. If you need to cancel or reschedule, please provide at least 48 hours' notice to avoid a late cancellation fee. Appointments missed without notice are subject to the full session fee.
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The first session is $225, with follow up sessions at $175.