What is a Good Faith Estimate?

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Starting January 1, 2022, the No Surprises Act protects uninsured and other or self-pay patients from many unexpectedly high medical bills.

A Good Faith Estimate (GFE) is a document that outlines the estimated cost of counseling services before you begin treatment. This estimate is provided in good faith by the therapist and is intended to give you an idea of the costs associated with your treatment.

The purpose of a GFE is to help you make an informed decision about whether or not you can afford the therapy services you are seeking. It is important to note that a GFE is not a guarantee of the final cost of your therapy, as the actual cost may vary depending on the specific needs and length of treatment.

A typical GFE will include the hourly rate of the therapist, the estimated number of sessions, and any other fees or expenses associated with the treatment. These expenses may include materials, assessments, and other specialized services that may be required as part of your treatment plan.

Make sure you review your GFE carefully and ask any questions you may have before beginning treatment. If the estimated cost of treatment is higher than you expected or if there are any discrepancies, you should discuss this with your therapist before moving forward.

It's also important to note that while cost is an important factor to consider when choosing a therapist, it should not be the only factor. It's equally important to find a therapist who is a good match for you and your needs and who can provide the level of care and support that you require.

In all, though, a good faith estimate is just that - an estimate. Actual costs may vary depending on a variety of factors, including the complexity of the issues being addressed in counseling, the length of the sessions, and any unexpected events that may arise during the course of counseling.

Clients should also be aware that counseling services may be covered by insurance, and that they should contact their insurance provider to determine what services are covered and what their out-of-pocket costs will be.

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Find more information on your right to receive a Good Faith Estimate, here.

Check out a sample Good Faith Estimate, here.

For more information on Good Faith Estimates and the No Surprises Act, visit this website.