The First Time You Say “I Don’t Take Insurance” Out Loud

Most of us didn’t grow up thinking, “I want to be a business owner who has to explain their fees to strangers over the phone.” We just wanted to help people. We worked in settings where appointments were 15 minutes, and reimbursement was a guessing game.

So it makes sense that saying “I don’t take insurance” feels terrifying at first. It’s not just an administrative policy; it’s a declaration of worth.

It’s saying: I built something intentionally. And I’m going to protect it.

It’s saying: I want to provide care that isn’t bound by red tape.

It’s saying: My time, my energy, and my expertise matter.

Of course, it feels big.

Why You Feel Like You’re Doing Something Wrong

Because you were taught to serve the system first.

To bend, accommodate, apologize. To do whatever it takes to keep care “accessible,” even if it means burning yourself out to the point that you’re no longer able to give good care.

So, when you draw a boundary, it naturally brings up discomfort. That’s your nervous system unlearning the idea that access and exploitation are the same thing.

They’re not.

You can offer ethical, trauma-informed, client-centered care and protect your capacity.

Private-pay isn’t selfish. It’s sustainable.

Try Saying This Instead

If you want a script that feels less cringey and more grounded, start here:

“That’s a great question. I’m a private-pay provider, so I don’t work directly with insurance. But I can give you a superbill you can submit for possible reimbursement, depending on your out-of-network benefits.”

And if you feel up to it, add:

“I chose this model because it allows me to offer longer appointments and more personalized care than what insurance usually covers. If it’s helpful, I’d be happy to walk you through what it looks like to work together this way.”

That’s it. You’re not selling. You’re not defending. You’re just… being clear and letting them choose.

And Here’s What Happens Next

Will someone hang up? Maybe.

But you’ll also hear this:

“I’ve been looking for something like this.”

Or: “I want care that’s thorough.”

Or even: “Honestly, I’m relieved.”

And those clients? They show up. They respect your time. They take the work seriously. And they become the foundation of a practice that supports you, too.

If No One Has Told You Yet

You’re allowed to build a practice that aligns with your values.

You’re allowed to be paid well.

You’re allowed to say: “I don’t take insurance” without flinching.

And if you're still working on saying it without your voice shaking, you're not alone. That's the kind of support we work through inside Strong Roots Mentorship the boundaries, the scripts, the mindset shifts that help you build a business that doesn’t burn you out.

If you’re ready to feel solid in how you run your practice, I’d love to help.

You don’t have to figure this out alone. And you don’t have to whisper your boundaries.

You can say them proudly and still lead with care.

If you’re feeling stuck or unsure where to start, come join us inside Strong Roots Mentorship. We take you step by step from ground zero to seeing patients and beyond, without the overwhelm.