WHY AM I GETTING A CANCELLATION FEE IF I MISS A SESSION?

 

When you start seeing a therapist, you should be prepared for paying a cancellation fee if you miss a session.  Every therapist or clinic will have their own cancellation policy. This policy is provided to you before you start your sessions in written form, and the therapist should review this with you during your first session as well. This ensures no surprises. Most cancellation policies request 24-48 hours notice to cancel, but please be sure to ask your therapist for their own fee.

The reason that a cancellation fee is charged is because therapists are paid by insurance based on each session. This is the same if you are paying privately. When you miss your session, that spot on your therapist's calendar is not open to anyone else in need of support. Instead, the therapist will hold your spot and also go unpaid.

As much as we want our therapist to be caring for us for the "right reasons." Therapists are professionals that also have their own financial commitments to their practice, their family, and to your insurance company.

The cancellation fee is also a small reminder to keep your appointments for your own mental health. You may not feel 100% ready for a session on a busy week. But, that definitely doesn't mean it's a good idea for your mental health to skip a week.

Pro Tip: If you miss a session and are charged a cancellation fee, your insurance will not pay this fee. You will be responsible for the entire cancellation fee and your co-pay or deductible is not involved. Cancellation fees can get expensive in a hurry.