Get Credentialed: A Private Practice Therapist's Guide to Getting Paneled with Insurance Companies

For years I avoided paneling with insurance companies because other therapists had told me how difficult it was... that the panels were full, they didn't pay well, or they would claw back the money or audit you. That it wasn't worth the trouble. But when I lost my day job and had no choice but to make my private practice into a thriving full-time business, I decided to look into paneling with insurance companies myself. I started out with the lowest paying one in Southern California, which was Magellan at the time. At $59 a session that seemed outrageous. But they were the company that handled mental health for Blue Shield. So, I went with it and was able to fill my practice quickly. Once I got comfortable I reached out to more companies. I had been told that Anthem was full for years. So I called them and asked, I have been hearing that you are full, but do you make any exceptions? The answer was Absolutely! If you have a specialty that no one else in 20 miles has, then we will consider you. So that got me thinking and got me creative. Eight years later, even with the onslaught of "platforms" into our field, I have higher rates with the insurance companies than the platforms do. I spoke with one popular platform and he asked ME how i was able to negotiate my rates. I told him. And he said well yeah if you can do that then you shouldn't come work with us. What concerns me is so many therapists are still intimidated by the thought of getting paneled themselves. Anyone who has done it themselves will tell you it really isn't that hard. This one sheet will get you started and I'm happy to provide a free ten minute phone consultation if you have a few quick questions or schedule longer coaching sessions at my regular private practice rate. I want us all to thrive together. So no, I'm not here to sell you on another expensive therapy practice growth product. I'm just here to help at my regular rate or a sliding scale if you just need a hand.