A Good Faith Estimate (GFE) template for therapists is a standardized document that provides clients with an estimated cost of services before they commit to therapy. This transparency allows clients to understand their financial responsibilities and make informed decisions about their care.
For therapists, using a good faith estimate template ensures compliance with legal requirements that were enacted on January 1, 2022, and fosters trust with clients. Below, we'll explore the essential components of a good faith estimate. As well as how to create one and provide examples of statements that can be included.
If you are looking for an Attorney-Approved Good Faith Estimate Template for therapists in private practice for FREE that covers everything and more in this article, grab one here!
What is Good Faith in Simple Terms?
In simple terms, "good faith" refers to the honest intention to act without taking unfair advantage of another party. For therapists, good faith involves providing accurate, clear, and upfront information about the costs associated with therapy services. It means being truthful about what clients can expect to pay and ensuring that the estimate provided is as close as possible to the actual cost.
Although therapists have always been required to disclose their fees, therapists are also required to follow the new legislation. Even if they have their fees disclosed on their website and their consent forms.
Who is Required to Provide a Good Faith Estimate Under the No Surprises Act?
This is required for healthcare professionals including mental health professionals who provide services to people that are uninsured or people who are insured but choose not to use their insurance benefits to pay for healthcare services (private pay clients).
This legislation ensures that clients are not surprised by hidden fees or additional costs that were not previously disclosed. By providing this form, therapists help clients make informed decisions and build trust through transparency.
What is a Good Faith Form?
A Good Faith Form, often referred to as a Good Faith Estimate Form, is a document that therapists in private practice provide to clients before they begin treatment. This form outlines, among other things, the expected costs of therapy services based on the client’s specific needs and the therapist's pricing structure.
The Good Faith Estimate Form became a legal requirement under the No Surprises Act. The act was implemented to protect consumers from unexpected medical bills.
What is Usually Included in a Good Faith Estimate?
A Good Faith Estimate typically includes several key elements. Each to provide a comprehensive overview of the expected costs for counseling services. Here's what is usually included in a good-faith estimate:
Client Information: This section includes the client's name, DOB, contact information, and diagnosis if known or applicable.
Therapist Information: The therapist's name, contact information, and practice details. It also includes the therapist’s EIN and NPI if they have one.
Description of Services: A detailed list of the therapy services that will be provided, including the type of therapy (e.g., individual, couples, family) and the expected duration of each session.
Cost Breakdown: This section includes the cost of each service, such as the price per session, and the total estimated cost for the entire course of treatment.
Potential Additional Costs: A disclaimer or notice about any additional costs that may arise during treatment, such as fees missed appointment fees, late cancellation fees, letter writing fees, travel to court, or additional therapeutic services not covered in the initial estimate.
Good Faith Statement: A statement confirming that the estimate is provided in good faith and reflects the therapist's best efforts to anticipate costs based on the information available at the time.
These elements ensure that the client has a clear understanding of what they are agreeing to financially and that there are no surprises down the line.
How Do You Write a Good Faith Estimate?
Writing a Good Faith Estimate requires careful consideration and attention to detail. All to ensure that all necessary information is included and that the estimate is as accurate as possible. It is recommended that you consult an attorney to ensure you have all requirements covered.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to write a good-faith estimate:
Gather Client Information: Begin by collecting all relevant information about the client, including their name, contact details, and any specific needs that may affect the cost of therapy.
Outline Services Provided: List all the therapy services you plan to offer, specifying the type of therapy, the expected number of sessions, and the duration of each session. Be clear about what is included in the service to avoid any misunderstandings.
Determine Costs: Calculate the cost for each service, including your hourly rate, session fees, and any other charges. If you offer a sliding scale or payment plans, include these options in the estimate.
Add a Good Faith Statement: Include a statement that affirms the estimate is provided in good faith and reflects the anticipated costs based on the information currently available.
Review and Finalize: Review the estimate to ensure all information is accurate and complete. Make any necessary adjustments before finalizing the document.
Provide the Estimate to the Client: Once completed, present the estimate to the client in a clear and understandable format. Ensure they have the opportunity to ask questions or request clarifications.
Update as Needed: If there are any changes in the course of therapy that affect the cost, provide an updated estimate to the client as soon as possible.
By following these steps, you can create a comprehensive and accurate good-faith estimate that meets the legal requirements and provides clarity to your clients.
You can also get an Attorney-Approved FREE printable Good Faith Estimate Form for therapists if you want to ensure you are in compliance, and save time and money! This Good Faith Estimate Form PDF can be printed or used digitally. CLICK HERE to take advantage of your FREE Good Faith Estimate Form today!
What is an Example of a Good Faith Statement?
A Good Faith Statement is an essential part of the Good Faith Estimate. As it underscores the intention behind the estimate and reassures the client of its accuracy. Here’s an example of a Good Faith Statement that therapists can include in their estimates:
"This Good Faith Estimate is provided to give you a clear understanding of the anticipated costs for the therapy services discussed. The estimated costs are based on the information available at the time of this estimate and reflect our best efforts to anticipate the total expenses for your care. Please note that actual costs may vary depending on your specific needs and any changes to the treatment plan. We are committed to transparency and will notify you of any changes that may affect your financial responsibilities."
This statement communicates that the estimate is a sincere and honest effort to predict costs and that the therapist is committed to keeping the client informed of any changes.
What Are the Best Tips for Using a Good Faith Estimate Template for Therapists?
As therapists in private practice, we know using a good faith estimate template is an efficient way to ensure compliance with the No Surprises Act and to provide clients with a clear understanding of their financial obligations. A good faith estimate template for therapists can be customized to fit the specific needs of your practice, allowing you to include all the necessary elements discussed above.
When looking for a good faith estimate template or free printable good faith estimate form, it's essential to choose one that meets the good faith estimate requirements and has been reviewed by an attorney.
What Are the Best Strategies for Providing a Good Faith Estimate Website Notice?
In addition to providing clients with a good faith estimate, therapists are also required to display a notice on their website. This good faith estimate website notice informs potential clients about their right to receive a good faith estimate before starting therapy services. It should be easily accessible, prominently displayed, and written in plain language.
This website notice is an essential part of your compliance with the No Surprises Act, as it ensures that all potential clients are aware of their rights and your commitment to transparency. By including this notice on your website, you reinforce your dedication to operating in good faith and maintaining trust with your clients.
Want to Grab the Good Faith Estimate Bundle for Therapists in Private Practice for FREE?
If you're a therapist in private practice, having the right tools and templates is essential for running a successful practice. If you are looking for a Good Faith Estimate form for therapists in private practice, we’ve got you covered. The Good Faith Estimate actually comes in a bundle and includes the Good Faith estimate website notice, a script on how to talk with your clients about the GFE, templates, and a video walkthrough on how to use the templates. This Good Faith Estimate Therapy PDF Form can be printed or used digitally for your convenience.
This bundle is available for FREE and can be downloaded directly from our website. Grab the Good Faith Estimate Bundle for Therapists in Private Practice for FREE and ensure you stay in compliance.
The Good Faith Estimate Form was created in 2022 to meet the newest legislative requirements, but continues to meet the good faith estimate requirements in 2024 and beyond!
Need More Private Practice Forms? Check Out the 20+ Attorney Approved Private Practice Forms for Mental Health Counselors
Running a private practice involves managing various aspects, from client intake to billing and beyond. To help you stay organized and compliant, The Private Practice Startup put together a comprehensive collection of over 20 forms that every therapist in private practice should have.
These forms cover everything from informed consent, HIPAA, GFE, notes, and biopsychosocial just to name a few. It can save you countless hours of administrative work and help to avoid paying high attorney fees. Need more private practice forms? Check out the Peak Package of Attorney Approved Private Practice Forms.
Ready to Simplify Your Practice with a Good Faith Estimate Template?
If you're looking for an Attorney-Approved Good Faith Estimate Template for your private practice, The Private Practice Startup’s got you covered! This template ensures you comply with the latest legal requirements and builds trust with your clients by providing clear, upfront information about therapy costs. Check out our bundles if you're looking for more private practice paperwork! Begin to simplify your practice's paperwork with these three steps:
Ask Any Questions – Email us at Kate@ThePrivatePracticeStartup.com for any inquiries or clarification on how the Good Faith Estimate Template can benefit your practice.
Grab Your Free Template – Download the Attorney-Approved Good Faith Estimate Template for therapists and customize it for your practice.
Start Using It Today – Once downloaded, fill in your practice details and start providing clear, compliant estimates to your clients right away!
Additional Services Provided by The Private Practice Startup
At The Private Practice Startup, we aim to equip you with the tools and resources needed to ensure your private practice thrives. Beyond offering essential private practice paperwork including a good faith estimate template, we provide supervision paperwork for psychologists and mental health professionals, a robust Private Practice Marketing E-Course to help you grow your client base, and personalized private practice coaching with Kim Grocher, PhD, LCSW, to assist you in achieving your professional goals. Don't forget to tune in to our Private Practice Startup Podcast, where we feature interviews with successful practitioners, entrepreneurs, and experts in the mental health field to inspire and guide you through every stage of your practice. Whether you're in Texas, California, New York, Florida, or anywhere across the U.S., we're here to support you on your journey.
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