Getting Started

Holistic Psychotherapy & EMDR NY - Kimberly Seelbrede, LCSW

Insurance

I understand that insurance can be a major consideration for many clients. That’s why I strive to make the process as straightforward as possible. Like most private practices in New York City, Holistic Psychotherapy & Wellness Manhattan and Kimberly Seelbrede, LCSW is an out-of-network provider. That means I don’t accept your insurance directly. Most PPOs reimburse between 50-100% after your deductible is met. Some of those plans may include Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, and UnitedHealthcare.

This guide will walk you through the essential steps to prepare for your first session, navigate insurance reimbursement if you plan to use out-of-network benefits, and understand how to submit claims using superbills.

1. Complete Your Intake Paperwork

Once you’ve scheduled your first session, you’ll receive an email from SimplePractice, our secure client portal. The subject line will read: “Client Portal Invitation” and it will come from my email address via SimplePractice.

Inside the portal, you’ll find all necessary intake documents and consent forms. Please complete these prior to your first session to ensure we can begin our work together without delay. If forms are not completed, the session will be cancelled.

2. Understanding Therapy Costs and Insurance Reimbursement

Therapy is an important investment in your emotional health, personal growth, and nervous system regulation. As a boutique private practice, I provide high-quality, trauma-informed psychotherapy and EMDR designed to support deep and lasting change.

While I am an out-of-network provider, many clients with PPO insurance plans receive partial reimbursement for services. Reimbursement rates and coverage vary depending on your specific plan.

3. How to Check Your Out-of-Network Mental Health Benefits

To help you understand your potential reimbursement, you must contact your insurance provider directly.

Please note: This is only an estimate and does not guarantee reimbursement. I also suggest calling your insurance provider directly to confirm the most accurate information.

Questions to Ask Your Insurance Provider:

  • Does my plan include out-of-network coverage for mental health (specifically outpatient psychotherapy)?

  • Are virtual or telehealth therapy sessions covered under my plan?

  • Do I have an out-of-network deductible? If so, how much has been met this year?

  • What is the allowed reimbursement amount for CPT codes 90834 (45-minute session) or 90837 (55-minute session)?

  • What percentage of that amount will I be reimbursed after I meet my deductible?

Insurance companies don’t always provide clear answers easily. Be persistent and ask to speak with someone in behavioral health if needed.

4. What is a Superbill?

A superbill is an itemized receipt for your therapy sessions. It includes all the necessary information your insurance company needs to process your out-of-network claim.

Your superbill will include:

  • Your name and identifying information

  • Provider information (name, NPI, Tax ID, practice address)

  • Dates and duration of each session

  • CPT and diagnosis codes

  • Fees charged

  • Place of service code (POS 10 = virtual, POS 11 = in-person)

At Holistic Psychotherapy & EMDR NY, superbills are offered at your request, covering the previous month’s sessions for you to submit to your insurance provider.

5. How to Submit a Superbill for Reimbursement

Each insurance company has its own process. Here's a general guide:

Step 1: Review Your Superbill

Ensure all the information is correct (dates, fees, CPT codes, diagnosis, etc.).

Step 2: Contact Your Insurance

Visit your insurer’s website or call customer service to ask how to submit an out-of-network mental health claim. Some may require a specific form to be submitted alongside the superbill.

Step 3: Submit the Superbill

Depending on the insurer, you may be able to:

  • Upload it to an online portal

  • Email it securely

  • Fax or mail a printed copy

Step 4: Keep a Copy

Save a copy of the superbill, claim form (if applicable), and any correspondence with your insurance provider for your records.

Step 5: Follow Up

If you don’t receive reimbursement or a response within a few weeks, follow up with your insurer. Processing times vary, but many take 2–4 weeks.

6. Receiving Reimbursement

Once your out-of-network deductible is met, your insurance provider should begin reimbursing you directly—usually by check or direct deposit.

The amount you are reimbursed depends on your specific plan, your deductible, and the insurer’s “allowed amount” for each session.

7. Keep Your Info Up to Date

If your insurance details or credit card information change, please update this in your SimplePractice portal, or reach out via email. This helps ensure smooth billing and uninterrupted service.

Still Have Questions?

Navigating insurance can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to figure it out alone. I’m happy to answer questions during your intake process or point you toward helpful resources.

Whether you're here for trauma healing, nervous system regulation, or EMDR to shift deep-rooted patterns like people-pleasing or high-functioning anxiety—my goal is to make the administrative process as simple and stress-free as possible so you can focus on your healing.