Paying for Therapy - Discovery Counseling Austin

Your Investment in a Better Life

Therapy isn't just an expense—it's one of the most meaningful investments you can make in your future, your relationships, and your overall wellbeing.

Understanding the Value

We know that paying for therapy can feel overwhelming, especially when you're already navigating life's challenges. Here's the thing though—the skills, insights, and healing you gain in therapy create ripple effects that touch every area of your life for years to come.

Think of it this way: You're not just paying for an hour of someone's time. You're investing in better relationships, improved mental health, effective coping strategies, and a deeper understanding of yourself. These benefits compound over time, much like any good investment.

Our goal is to make this investment as accessible and straightforward as possible, whether you're using insurance benefits or paying privately.

Our Rates & Options

We believe in transparency, so here's exactly what therapy costs at Discovery Counseling:

Standard Sessions

  • 50-minute session: $125-$190
  • 90-minute session: $175
  • Group therapy: $40-$75

Reduced-Rate Options

  • Sliding-scale: $85-$130 (limited spots)
  • Counselors-in-training: $50-$75
  • Interns offer exceptional care at lower rates

Good news: We accept all major Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) cards, which can help make therapy more affordable by using pre-tax dollars.

Using Your Insurance Benefits

We're here to help you maximize your insurance benefits and minimize your out-of-pocket costs. Here's how we can work together:

In-Network Coverage

Some of our clinicians are in-network with these plans:

  • Community Health Network (WebTPA, Whole Foods)
  • United Healthcare (Optum)
  • BCBS PPO plans (managed by BCBSTX PPO)
  • Aetna

When your chosen clinician is in-network with your plan, you typically pay just your copay or coinsurance—often significantly less than our full rates.

Important note: Not every clinician is in-network with every plan. When you inquire about services, we'll let you know if your preferred therapist is in-network with your insurance. If they're not, don't worry—you likely still have excellent out-of-network benefits that can make therapy very affordable.

Out-of-Network Benefits

Even if we're not in your network, you may still have substantial benefits! Many insurance plans offer out-of-network coverage that can reimburse you for 50-80% of our fees.

Here's how it works: You pay us directly, and we provide you with a detailed "superbill" that you submit to your insurance for reimbursement. It's like getting a receipt that your insurance company recognizes and pays you back for.

Want to dive deeper into maximizing your out-of-network benefits?

📋 Check out our complete guide to using out-of-network insurance benefits

Note: Superbills are available for fully-licensed clinicians. For associate clinicians and therapists-in-training, we provide statements of charges that you can use to seek reimbursement if your plan allows.

Know Your Benefits

Understanding your insurance coverage doesn't have to be confusing. Here's exactly what to ask when you call your insurance company:

  1. Call the member services number on your insurance card
  2. Say: "I'd like to check my benefits for outpatient mental health services"
  3. Give them our information: Discovery Counseling Austin, Tax ID: 822811871
  4. Ask these specific questions:

Essential Questions to Ask:

  • Is Discovery Counseling Austin in-network for my plan?
  • Do I have coverage for mental health counseling? (Ask about CPT Codes 90791 and 90837)
  • What's my deductible, and how much have I met so far?
  • What's my copay or coinsurance per session?
  • Are there any session limits or yearly maximums?
  • Do I need a referral from my primary care doctor?

Pro tip: Write down the representative's name and reference number. This helps if you ever need to follow up or dispute a claim.

Low Cost Resource List

We completely understand that our rates might not work for everyone right now, and that's okay. Your mental health matters regardless of your budget, so here are some excellent lower-cost options in Austin:

Remember, getting help is what matters most—whether that's with us or another provider.

Questions? We're Here to Help

Navigating insurance and therapy costs shouldn't add stress to your life. Our billing specialist, Keisha, is incredibly knowledgeable and genuinely cares about helping you understand your options.

Ready to get started or have questions about costs?

Email Keisha at keisha@discoverycounselingaustin.com or call 512-607-9360 ext 75

Or fill out our Initial Inquiry Form and we'll discuss your coverage options together.

Remember: Taking care of your mental health is one of the smartest investments you can make. The benefits—better relationships, increased confidence, effective coping skills, and overall life satisfaction—are truly priceless. We're honored to be part of that journey with you.