If you’re looking into therapy and paying out of pocket, you’ve probably heard the word superbill thrown around. Most clients aren’t totally sure what it is at first, and honestly, why would you be? It’s one of those “insurance world” terms that feels more complicated than it needs to be. So let’s make it simple.
A superbill is basically a detailed receipt you can send to insurance
Even though I don’t accept insurance at Blue Couch, many clients are still able to get money back through their out-of-network benefits. A superbill is the document that makes that possible.
It’s essentially a receipt with all the specific information insurance companies want: dates of sessions, what type of session you had, my credentials, your diagnosis, what you paid, and the codes insurance uses to process claims. Nothing extra, nothing personal – just the required details.
What’s actually included on a superbill?
Here’s what you’ll see on the document:
- Your name and date of birth
- My practice name and credentials
- Session dates and length
- The type of session (CPT code)
- Your diagnosis (insurance requires this to process claims)
- The fee for each session and how much you paid
It’s pretty straightforward once you know what you’re looking at.
How to use a superbill (step-by-step)
If you’ve never submitted one before, I promise it’s not as intimidating as it sounds. Here’s the process clients use:
- Call the number on the back of your insurance card
Ask things like:- “Do I have out-of-network mental health benefits?”
- “What is the reimbursement rate for CPT codes 90791 and 90837?”
- “Where do I submit superbills?”
- “Do I need prior authorization?”
- Attend sessions and pay at the time of service
Super simple. Nothing extra you need to do here. - Download your superbill
I will upload superbills into your client portal monthly, but if you ever need one sooner, you can just ask. - Submit it to your insurance
Most companies let you upload the document through your online portal. Some have apps, some ask for email or fax (yes… fax still exists). - Receive reimbursement
If you have out-of-network benefits, insurance typically sends you a check or direct deposit. Timing varies, but a few weeks is pretty standard.
A few things to know up front
A superbill increases your chances of getting reimbursed, but it’s not a guarantee. Every insurance plan is different (and honestly, sometimes unpredictable).
A diagnosis is also required for insurance to process the claim. If you prefer not to use a diagnosis with insurance, that’s completely okay, you just won’t be reimbursed.
Why I offer superbills
I choose not to contract with insurance because it lets me protect your privacy, move at a pace that matches your nervous system, and do deeper trauma work without anyone dictating how many sessions you “should” need. But I absolutely understand finances matter, and superbills give you a way to possibly recoup some of what you’re investing in therapy.
Many clients are surprised by how much they get back once they submit them. If you have more questions, I’d encourage you to reach out to your insurance provider to see if they reimburse!
