Therapy costs at Move Forward Counseling depend on your specific insurance plan, deductibles, and session type. We accept most major insurance plans in Pennsylvania, including Highmark, Blue Cross, and Aetna.
For those without coverage, we offer transparent self-pay rates and lower-cost Intern Therapy options.
To avoid surprise costs, we recommend calling the number on the back of your insurance card to confirm your coverage. Here are the specific questions to ask:
“Does my plan include mental health benefits?”
“Do I have a deductible to meet before coverage starts?”
“Is a referral from my primary care physician required?”
Need help navigating your plan? You can also schedule a call with our Planning Team, and we can help you verify your benefits prior to scheduling your first appointment.
Your out-of-pocket costs depend on your specific plan. We participate with the following major providers in Pennsylvania:
Note: While we participate in these plans, we currently do not accept Medicaid or Medicare. Due to federal regulations, we cannot accept self-pay from clients holding these insurances.
For clients not using insurance (Self-Pay), or for out-of-network services, our standard rates are:
Initial Evaluation: $215
53-Minute Session: $190
45-Minute Session: $155
Prompt-Pay Discount: We offer a $45 discount off the above rates per session for self-pay clients who pay at the time of service.
Intern Therapy Rates (Reduced Cost Option) For clients seeking a more affordable option, we offer sessions with Intern Clinicians under strict Clinical Supervision.
Cost: $50 per 45-55 minute session.
Eligibility: Available for uninsured or private insurance clients only (Self-pay only; no insurance submission).
At MFC, if you are seeing an Intern Therapist, know that we are very selective in our hiring process and that the therapists work extremely closely with the supervising clinicians to ensure their development and the quality of the treatment they deliver. Not all insurance will reimburse for Interns, so it is essential to talk with our administrative staff to assess if an Intern is the best fit for you.
Financial Savings: At $50/session, intern therapy is often lower than a standard insurance copay or high-deductible cost.
Quality Care: All interns are master’s degree candidates who work closely under the supervision of our senior licensed clinicians to ensure high-quality treatment.
Access: This is an excellent solution if you are uninsured, have a high deductible, or want to bypass insurance restrictions.
We understand that therapy is a financial commitment. We view it as an investment in your long-term health, relationships, and career.
Whether you use insurance, self-pay for a specialist, or utilize our affordable Intern program, our goal is to provide high-quality, evidence-based care that helps you move forward. We are committed to finding a path that fits both your clinical needs and your budget.
We accept cash, checks, and all major credit cards.
HSA / FSA: Many clients are able to use their Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) cards for payment.
If we are not directly paneled with your specific insurance plan, you may still have coverage through
How it works: You pay for the session upfront, and we provide you with a detailed receipt (often called a “Superbill”) that you can submit to your insurance company for partial reimbursement.
What to ask: Call the member services number on your card and ask: “Do I have out-of-network mental health benefits, and what percentage of the session cost will be reimbursed?”
Your appointment time is reserved exclusively for you. If you are unable to attend a session, please provide at least 24 hours’ notice.
Late Cancellations: Appointments canceled with less than 24 hours’ notice will be charged a $92 fee.
Confidentiality: Your privacy is paramount. Learn more about MFC Confidentiality, HIPAA, and You.
Still have questions? Please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our administrative team is happy to help clarify any rates or insurance details before you book.
How much does counseling cost in Pennsylvania without insurance?
Without insurance, standard therapy sessions at Move Forward Counseling range from $120 to $190 depending on session length. However, we offer a prompt-pay discount of $45 off per session. For a more affordable option, our Intern Therapy program offers sessions for a flat rate of $50.
Do you accept Medicaid or Medicare?
No, Move Forward Counseling is not credentialed with Medicare or Medicaid. Federal regulations also prevent us from accepting clients with these insurances for self-pay services. We recommend contacting your insurance provider directly for a list of participating providers.
Does insurance cover teletherapy (online counseling)?
Yes, most major insurance plans in Pennsylvania cover teletherapy exactly the same as in-person sessions. This includes Highmark, Aetna, and Blue Cross plans. We recommend verifying your specific plan’s telehealth benefits before your first appointment.
What is the difference between a Licensed Therapist and an Intern?
A Licensed Therapist has completed their education and state licensure hours. An Intern is in the final stages of their Master’s degree and practices under the direct supervision of a licensed senior clinician. Interns offer a significantly reduced rate ($50/session) which can make therapy more accessible.
Get Matched with a Therapist, browse our provider bios or schedule your intake appointment online today.
Still Have Insurance Questions?
Our Administrative Team is here to help navigate your benefits and clarify any costs before you book.
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