LifeStance Health, a therapy and psychiatry company, achieved an overall rating of 3.5 stars in our independent review.
Operating both online and in-person, they cater to individuals of all ages, including kids, teens, adults, couples, and families, across 33 states.
Costs for therapy and psychiatry services vary based on location and chosen provider, with LifeStance being in-network with most commercial insurance providers.
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LifeStance’s Online Therapy Rating:
Having evaluated mental health products and services for over two years with Choosing Therapy, I found LifeStance Health excelling in the “Clientele Served” category due to their diverse range of therapy options.
However, in the “Online Therapy Cost” category, LifeStance fell short as out-of-pocket expenses are undisclosed on the website and remain undisclosed even after scheduling an appointment.
Pros & Cons of LifeStance Health:
Pros:
- In-person and online therapy and psychiatry services
- Extensive directory for browsing providers before enrollment
- Ability to select your preferred provider
- Acceptance of insurance
- Diverse range of services, including adult therapy, therapy for kids and teens, and neuropsychological testing in some locations
Cons:
- Lack of transparency on out-of-pocket costs on the website
- Limited availability in certain states
- Accepted insurance plans vary by provider
- Neuropsychological testing not universally available
Key Takeaways – LifeStance Health:
LifeStance Health does not disclose out-of-pocket or cash-pay rates on their website or provider profiles, necessitating contacting customer service for rate details.
Cash-pay rates are notably higher compared to other directories.
In Texas, for instance, therapy costs range from $85 for a student therapist to $425 for a psychiatric provider.
Despite this, LifeStance offers a substantial pool of providers, with most allowing appointments through online, in-person, or hybrid formats
Final Verdict on LifeStance Health:
In conclusion, I recommend considering LifeStance Health if referred by your primary care provider or if it is an in-network mental health provider with your insurance plan.
However, for those seeking to pay out-of-pocket, I do not recommend LifeStance due to the high cash-pay rates for fully licensed therapists and psychiatric providers.
LifeStance Health at a Glance:
- Cost of Online Therapy: Depends on your location
- Cost of Online Psychiatry: Depends on your location
- Insurance accepted: Yes
- Geographic Coverage: 33 States
- Age Limitations: Depends on Provider
- Self-Selected or Matched with Therapist: Self-Select
- Can You Change Therapists? Yes
- Speed to First Appointment: Depends on the Provider, but typically within one week
- Frequency of Appointments: Depends on your treatment plan
- Messaging with Therapist Between Appointments: Email through the patient portal
What Is LifeStance Health?
LifeStance Health, an online and in-person therapy and psychiatry company, received an overall rating of 3.5 stars in our comprehensive review.
They provide a broad spectrum of mental health services for various demographics.
Out-of-pocket costs vary by location and provider, but all LifeStance providers are in-network with most commercial insurance plans.
Using LifeStance Health:
To check eligibility, click the “Find Provider” button on the main website.
While LifeStance currently lacks a mobile app, its mobile browser functionality is seamless.
The provider directory, organized by state and zip code, offers numerous therapists and psychiatric providers.
Reviewing provider profiles may be time-consuming but aids in finding the right match.
Platform and Accessibility:
LifeStance utilizes AdvancedMD for its HIPAA-compliant platform, facilitating tasks such as adding payment information, scheduling appointments, and messaging providers.
Patient forms are accessible and signable through this portal.
Costs and Medication Management:
Out-of-pocket or cash-pay costs with LifeStance are not explicitly stated and require reaching out to customer service.
In a specific location, therapy costs $325 for a fully licensed therapist, with student therapists priced at $85.
Psychiatry services involve a $425 fee for an initial 60-minute appointment, offering medication management for anxiety and depression, the specifics of which are determined by the provider.
What are the Costs of LifeStance Health?
The pricing of LifeStance Health varies significantly based on your location.
In Texas, for instance, out-of-pocket expenses for a 60-minute therapy session amount to $325, while the initial psychiatry appointment is priced at $425.
If opting for a student therapist, the cost is $85 per 60-minute therapy session.
Does LifeStance Health Accept Insurance?
Certainly, LifeStance Health welcomes most commercial insurance plans, including but not limited to Aetna, Cigna, Humana, Magellan, Optum, and others.
Out-of-Network Benefits
LifeStance providers have the capability to generate a superbill, which can be submitted to your insurance provider for potential reimbursement.
How to Initiate Services with LifeStance Health?
Embarking on your journey with LifeStance is straightforward. Visit the LifeStance website and click on “Find a Provider.” Indicate your state and opt for either online booking or contact the customer service line for further guidance.
For online appointment scheduling, follow these simple steps:
- Visit the LifeStance website and click on “Find a Provider.”
- Choose “Find a Provider Online” and then select “I’m New Here.”
- Enter your zip code, and if necessary, call LifeStance directly for assistance with subsequent steps.
- Indicate the type of care you are seeking, provide your date of birth, and furnish your insurance details.
- Access the directory, peruse the profiles of available providers in your vicinity.
- Pick the provider that best aligns with your preferences and check their availability.
- Select a suitable date and time for your session.
- Confirm your choice and verify your email address.
- Complete the addition of personal information and consent forms.
- On the day of your appointment, click the link in your email to join your live session.
Experiencing LifeStance Health Psychiatry:
I opted not to consult a LifeStance psychiatrist due to the substantial out-of-pocket expenses, specifically $425 for the initial appointment in my state.
However, the process of booking, completing client forms, and engaging in live appointments mirrors the approach taken for therapy sessions.
If medication is recommended, prescriptions are sent to a local pharmacy for convenient pickup.
Certain medications, such as Xanax or Adderall, may necessitate in-person appointments, underscoring the importance of residing within 60 miles of a physical LifeStance location.
Who Finds LifeStance Health Ideal?
For Those Utilizing Insurance:
LifeStance is an excellent choice for individuals keen on using their insurance, as the majority of commercial insurance plans are accepted, resulting in significantly reduced out-of-pocket costs.
In some instances, primary care providers may even provide referrals to LifeStance.
Seeking In-Person & Online Services:
LifeStance caters to those seeking both in-person and online mental health services. This flexibility is advantageous for individuals with dynamic schedules or familial commitments.
Neuropsychological Testing:
A distinctive feature of LifeStance is its provision of neuropsychological testing. Interested individuals can contact LifeStance to find a nearby provider offering testing for ADHD, Autism Spectrum, and more.
While not universally available, it is worth exploring for those in need of testing.
Who Might Consider Alternatives to LifeStance Health?
Those Outside Service Areas:
As LifeStance currently operates in 33 states, individuals in rural areas or outside the service region may find it suboptimal.
Platforms like Cerebral or Brightside, offering online mental health services nationwide, are recommended alternatives.
Exclusively Seeking Online Therapy:
For those facing challenges with in-person therapy, online therapy provides greater flexibility.
Our comprehensive review of the best online therapy services outlines platforms catering to diverse needs, offering details on costs and suitability.
Seeking Specialized Programs:
While LifeStance addresses eating and substance use disorders, it may not be purpose-built for these specialized needs.
For comprehensive virtual programs tailored to these requirements, Within Health for eating disorders and Workit Health for substance use disorders are highly recommended alternatives.
Also read: Is Honey Bee Health Legit
Frequently Asked Questions About LifeStance Health:
1. What Credentials Do LifeStance Health Providers Hold? LifeStance providers encompass licensed therapists, psychiatrists, advanced practice nurses, and psychologists.
2. How Do I Choose a Provider? You have the flexibility to select your provider either from the LifeStance provider directory or during the sign-up process. Peruse provider profiles to make an informed choice based on your preferences.
3. Can I Switch to a New Provider? Certainly, you can switch to a different provider by contacting LifeStance and requesting the change.
4. Who Is Eligible for Medication? LifeStance extends medication management services to individuals aged six and above.
5. What Medications are Available? LifeStance providers can prescribe a diverse range of medications tailored to the specific needs of each patient. In the case of controlled medications, an in-person appointment may be required.
6. Where Is Medication Management Available? Medication management services are accessible in all states served by LifeStance.
7. How Do I Get My Medications? Prescription medications are conveniently sent to your local pharmacy for pickup, with costs contingent on your medication copay.
8. Can I use my FSA or HSA Funds? Certainly, LifeStance accepts FSA or HSA funds to cover mental health costs.
9. How Can I Cancel My Appointment with LifeStance Health? To cancel an appointment, you must call at least 48 hours in advance. Failure to cancel within this timeframe may result in a charge of up to $150.
10. Does LifeStance Health Offer Refunds? Refund policies vary among individual providers. For assistance with possible refunds, it is advisable to reach out to your provider or contact LifeStance directly.
11. Is LifeStance Health HIPAA Compliant? Yes, LifeStance ensures HIPAA compliance through its use of the AdvancedMD platform. All interactions related to patient forms, payment information, and scheduling occur within this secure portal.