Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I seek therapy from a Thrive Boulder therapist?

Because we take the matching process seriously. Our therapists are hand-selected by our clinical director, who has over 15 years of experience working with clients of all ages. We’ve built a diverse team with a wide range of specialties and training — so wherever you are in your journey, there’s likely someone here who’s the right fit.

Our therapists are trained in approaches including EMDR, CBT, ACT, DBT, IFS, Somatic Therapy, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Hakomi, AEDP, ERP, and Ketamine Assisted Therapy (KAP), among others. Whether you’re processing trauma, navigating a life transition, working on relationships, or just starting to explore therapy — we’re here for it. We also have therapists who speak Spanish and Russian fluently.

How do I get started?

Reach out through our Contact page or click “Become a Client.” Our administrative team will follow up to learn a little about what you’re looking for, verify your insurance benefits, and match you with a therapist who fits your needs and schedule. You don’t have to figure it all out before reaching out — that’s what we’re here for.

How does Thrive match me with a therapist?

We don’t just go by availability. Our team considers your goals, the issues you want to work on, your preferences (like therapist gender or communication style), and your insurance or budget. If your first match doesn’t feel right, we’ll help you find someone who does.

Will my insurance cover therapy at Thrive?

We’re in-network with BCBS, Anthem, UnitedHealthcare, Kaiser, Aetna, and all Colorado Medicaid plans. Before your first appointment, our team will run a free benefits check and share what to expect in terms of copays, deductibles, or out-of-pocket costs.

Please note: we’re not currently able to accept Cigna or Medicare.

While we verify your benefits at the start of care and do our best to keep your information current, insurance can change and when it does, we need to know. If your coverage lapses, your plan changes, or you get new insurance, it’s your responsibility to update us before your next session. If we bill based on the information we have on file and your actual coverage is different, you will be responsible for any resulting balance. We are bound by the reimbursement rates set by your insurance company and cannot adjust fees based on what you expected your plan to cover.

If you’re ever unsure about your current coverage, call the behavioral health number on the back of your insurance card or reach out to us and we’ll help you figure it out before it becomes a billing issue.

What will my insurance actually cover and what will I owe?

It depends on your specific plan, but here’s a quick breakdown:

Copay only: You pay a flat fee per session; insurance covers the rest.

Deductible first: You may owe the full session rate until your deductible is met.

Coinsurance: Once your deductible is met, you pay a percentage of each session.

The amounts we quote you at intake are based on the benefits verification we run at that time. If your plan details change — mid-year, after open enrollment, or due to a job change — those figures may no longer be accurate. You are ultimately responsible for any portion your insurance doesn’t cover, regardless of what was communicated at intake. We’ll always do our best to flag changes when we catch them, but we cannot guarantee what your insurer will reimburse on any given claim.

Not sure what you owe? Call your insurer and ask: What are my outpatient behavioral health benefits? Do I have a deductible or copay? Has anything changed since [date]?

What if my insurance isn’t accepted at Thrive?

We can provide you with a superbill, a detailed receipt you can submit to your insurance company for possible out-of-network reimbursement. To find out if your plan covers this, call your insurer and ask: What are my out-of-network mental health benefits, and where do I submit superbills?

We’re actively working to credential with additional plans in Colorado.

How much does therapy cost if I’m paying out of pocket?

A 50-minute session is $150–$200, depending on your therapist’s experience level. Couples and specialized services may be priced differently, just ask when you reach out.

Do you offer a sliding scale?

Yes. Many of our therapists offer reduced fees for clients experiencing financial hardship. We can also help guide you through applying for Medicaid if that might be an option for you. Don’t let cost be a barrier to reaching out, we’ll do our best to find something that works.

When is payment due?

Payment is due at the time of service. Your card on file will be charged the evening of your appointment.

What happens if I miss a session or cancel late?

Life happens and we get that. But because your therapist has held that time specifically for you, late cancellations and no-shows are charged out of pocket regardless of insurance.

Private insurance clients: Missed sessions are not covered by insurance and will be billed directly.

Private pay clients: The full session fee applies to late cancels and no-shows.

Medicaid clients: You won’t be charged for missed appointments, but if it becomes a pattern, your therapist will want to work out a plan with you.

What if therapy doesn’t feel like the right fit?

That’s okay — and it’s more common than you think. Therapeutic fit matters enormously, and we’d rather you find the right person than stick with someone who isn’t clicking. Let us know and we’ll help you explore other options on our team.

I’m interested in Ketamine Assisted Therapy (KAP). How does that work?

KAP is a powerful option for people navigating treatment-resistant depression, complex trauma, or deep emotional blocks. Several of our therapists are trained and credentialed in KAP and can walk you through what the process looks like.

We collaborate with Skylight Psychedelics, a group of doctors who handle the medical assessment and medication component. If you’re already working with a Thrive therapist, start the conversation with them. If you’re new and KAP is your primary focus, just note that on our Contact page — we’ll route you accordingly.

My child or teen needs support. What should I expect?

Your child’s therapist will want to meet with you first. Understanding your child’s developmental history, home life, social world, and current challenges helps us provide better care from day one.

From there, your therapist will recommend a format that makes sense — whether that’s individual sessions with your child, occasional parent check-ins, or a combination. You’ll always know what’s happening and why. Our team is experienced with kids and teens of all ages and family structures.

Do you offer therapy for couples?

Yes. Our therapists work with couples at all stages — dating, long-term partnerships, married, or consciously uncoupling. We use approaches like Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Gottman Method-informed techniques, and attachment-based work to help partners communicate better, rebuild trust, and deepen connection.

Do you offer teletherapy?

Yes. We offer both in-person and remote sessions. Our offices are located in Boulder, Broomfield, and Paonia — and if you can’t make it in, teletherapy is a fully supported option.

Is Thrive Boulder affirming of LGBTQIA+ clients?

Absolutely. We are committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and affirming space for LGBTQIA+ individuals, couples, and families. Our therapists are experienced in identity exploration, relationship support, navigating discrimination, and trauma-informed care across diverse backgrounds and communities.

Still have questions?

We’d love to hear from you. Reach out at support@boulderthrive.com or call (720) 893-0161.