Insurance & Payment Information
We believe in straightforward, transparent financial practices so you can focus on getting better.
Dr. Shapiro is an out-of-network provider. This means you pay at the time of your visit, and we help you get reimbursed by your insurance.
Questions? Call (859) 341-7453We Are an Out-of-Network Provider
This is a deliberate choice that allows us to provide the highest quality care without insurance company interference. We take the time you deserve, make clinical decisions based on your needs, and treat every patient as an individual, not a claim number.
What you're actually paying for
The honest question isn't “in-network or out?” It's “what do I actually get for my money?”
- Often 15 minutes, sometimes with a rotating clinician
- A medication decision made against the clock
- Treatment choices filtered through what the plan will cover
- Your clinical details shared with a utilization reviewer
- About 2 hours (adults) or 3 hours (children) of real face-to-face time
- Two clinicians — a therapist and Dr. Shapiro — sharing one chart
- The same psychiatrist for the long run, not whoever's available
- Decisions driven by your needs, and your privacy kept between us
How Payment & Reimbursement Works
The process is simple. Here is what to expect at every step.
Pay at the Time of Your Visit
We accept cash, personal checks, and all major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover). Payment is collected at the time of service.
Receive a Detailed Superbill
After each visit, we provide you with a superbill, which is a detailed receipt that includes all the diagnostic codes, procedure codes, and information your insurance company needs to process a claim.
Submit to Your Insurance
We submit claims to your insurance on your behalf twice a month (the 1st and the 15th) to help you get reimbursed — most out-of-network practices leave that paperwork to you. You may also submit the superbill yourself through your insurance company's portal, by mail, or by fax.
Receive Reimbursement
Many patients receive significant reimbursement from their insurance plans for out-of-network mental health services. The amount depends on your specific plan and benefits.
How to Check Your Insurance Benefits
Before your first visit, we recommend calling your insurance company to understand your out-of-network benefits. Here is exactly what to say.
- 1
Call the member services number on the back of your insurance card.
- 2
Ask specifically about your out-of-network mental health benefits.
- 3
Ask: 'What is my out-of-network deductible for behavioral health?'
- 4
Ask: 'What percentage does my plan reimburse for out-of-network psychiatric services?'
- 5
Ask: 'Is there a limit on the number of outpatient mental health visits per year?'
- 6
Ask: 'Do I need a referral or prior authorization for an out-of-network psychiatrist?'
- 7
Write down the name of the representative you spoke with and the reference number for the call.
Tip: If you are unsure about any of this, our office staff is happy to help you understand your benefits. Just call us at (859) 341-7453.
Accepted Payment Methods
Cash
Personal Check
Credit Cards
HSA / FSA
We accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. For current rates, please contact our office at (859) 341-7453.
Why Out-of-Network?
Being out-of-network is not about cost. It is about giving you the care you actually deserve.
Longer, More Thorough Appointments
Insurance companies often limit visits to 15 minutes. Our initial evaluations take about 2 hours for adults and 3 hours for children, and follow-up visits are 30-45 minutes. We never rush your care.
Your Doctor Decides Your Treatment
Insurance companies frequently deny or limit treatments they deem unnecessary. As an out-of-network provider, Dr. Shapiro makes treatment decisions based solely on your clinical needs, not insurance company policies.
True Privacy and Confidentiality
When insurance companies are not involved in managing your care, your detailed clinical information stays between you and your doctor. No utilization reviews or mandatory reporting of treatment details.
Personalized, Flexible Care
We can adjust appointment frequency, session length, and treatment approaches based on what works best for you, without having to seek pre-authorization or justify every decision to an insurance reviewer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much will my insurance reimburse me?
Reimbursement varies significantly depending on your insurance plan. Many patients receive partial reimbursement for out-of-network mental health services after meeting their deductible — for some plans it is a substantial portion. The best way to find out is to call your insurance company and ask about your specific out-of-network behavioral health benefits.
What is a superbill?
A superbill is a detailed receipt we provide after each visit. It includes your diagnosis codes (ICD-10), procedure codes (CPT), the date and duration of service, and the amount you paid. This is everything your insurance company needs to process your claim for reimbursement.
Do you offer payment plans or sliding scale fees?
We understand that investing in mental health care is a significant decision. Please call our office at (859) 341-7453 to discuss your individual situation. We are committed to helping you access the care you need.
Why don't you accept insurance directly?
When psychiatrists accept insurance, they are required to follow the insurance company's rules about how long appointments can be, what treatments are covered, and how often patients can be seen. By operating out-of-network, Dr. Shapiro can spend the time needed with each patient and make treatment decisions based entirely on clinical judgment.
Can I use my HSA or FSA to pay?
Yes. Psychiatric services are eligible expenses for Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA). You can use your HSA or FSA debit card to pay at the time of your visit, or submit the superbill for reimbursement from your account.
Still Have Questions About Cost?
Our office staff is happy to walk you through the financial details and help you understand what to expect. Do not let cost concerns keep you from getting the care you need.
If you're experiencing a psychiatric emergency, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.