The No Surprises Act, which is part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021, is designed to protect clients from receiving unexpected medical bills.

As a result of the No Surprises Act, a Good Faith Estimate will be generated.

A “Good Faith Estimate” (GFE) is a form which, as a state-licensed psychotherapist, I am required to provide to a current or prospective client who’s either uninsured or isn’t planning to submit a claim to their insurance.

This Good Faith Estimate contains the costs of items and services that are reasonably expected for your health care needs. While it is not possible for a psychotherapist to know, in advance, how many psychotherapy sessions may be necessary or appropriate for a given person, the estimate is based on information known at the time the estimate was created.  The GFE does not include any unknown or unexpected costs that may arise during treatment.  You could be charged more if complications or special circumstances occur.  If this were to happen, and you are not notified, federal law allows you to appeal your bill.  

Your total cost of services will depend upon the number of psychotherapy sessions you attend, your individual circumstances, and the type and amount of services that are provided to you. The GFE is not a contract and does not obligate you to obtain any services from the provider(s) listed, nor does it include any services that may be recommended during treatment to you that are not identified in the GFE.    

For questions or to learn more about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, or how to dispute a bill, see your Estimate, or visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises, or call HHS at 1-800-985.3059.