Superbill Guide for Out-of-Network Therapy Reimbursement

Many PPO insurance plans will reimburse 50–80% of your session fee once your deductible is met. I’ll provide you with a superbill — a specialized receipt with all the information your insurance company needs to process your out-of-network therapy claim.

What Is a Superbill and How Does It Work for Therapy?

A superbill is an itemized invoice with insurance-specific codes (such as CPT codes, diagnosis codes, and provider details) that your insurance company uses to process reimbursement for therapy sessions. Instead of paying your therapist through your insurance, you pay privately and then submit the superbill to your insurance provider to receive direct reimbursement.

How to Get Reimbursed for Out-of-Network Therapy with a PPO Plan

  1. Pay for your session at the time of service (private pay).
  2. Receive your superbill from me — monthly or after each session.
  3. Submit your superbill to your insurance company via their online portal, email, fax, or mail.
  4. Receive your reimbursement directly from your insurance provider.

Download Your Insurance Benefits Verification Worksheet

Before starting therapy, it’s helpful to confirm your coverage and reimbursement rates. This free worksheet gives you a script of key questions to ask your insurance provider so you know exactly what to expect.

Insurance Questions to Ask Before Your First Session

  • Do I have out-of-network benefits for mental health services?
  • What is my out-of-network deductible, and how much of it have I met?
  • After I meet my deductible, what percentage of the session fee will you reimburse?
  • What is your “allowed amount” for CPT codes 90837 and 90791?
  • How do I submit my superbill, and who should it be addressed to?
  • How long does reimbursement take, and is it by check or direct deposit?
  • Are there any session limits per year?

Tip: Write down the representative’s name and date for your records.

Step-by-Step: Using a Superbill for EMDR and Trauma Therapy

Whether you’re working on trauma recovery, nervous system regulation, or EMDR therapy, using a superbill allows you to choose the right therapist for your needs without being limited by in-network provider lists. Many of my clients have successfully used superbills to receive substantial reimbursement for specialized therapy that isn’t always covered in-network.