Intro:

As a private practice owner or clinician, you’ve experienced tremendous change over the past few years—some of it practically overnight. As we move through the middle of 2025, it’s more important than ever to stay ahead of trends that can significantly impact your financial sustainability.

Here are three key trends shaping the behavioral health landscape—and what your practice can do to stay prepared.

Trend #1: Higher Costs Are Being Shifted to Clients Through Deductibles and Co-Insurance

Gone are the days of $10 therapy co-pays. Many commercial insurance clients now have deductibles exceeding $4,000 per person—and in many cases, much higher.

In practical terms, this means your practice is often being paid directly by clients, not the insurer.

Are you regularly having “financial conversations” with your clients?

We know this can feel uncomfortable—it’s one of the hardest parts of private practice. But avoiding these discussions could result in lost revenue and strained client relationships. Many clients simply don’t understand their insurance plan or financial responsibility unless it’s explained clearly and kindly.

✅ Tip: Make these conversations a routine part of intake and ongoing care. When addressed early and transparently, payment expectations support—not sabotage—the therapeutic alliance.

Trend #2: Public Sector Payers Are Increasingly Dominating the Payer Mix

Although there is uncertainty in Medicaid because of Federal Government proposed changes, over 3 million individuals are now covered through CHIP or Medicaid. The state currently contracts with five Medicaid Managed Care Plans (MCPs)—six if you include Aetna Better Health/OhioRISE.

Many practices are seeing a noticeable increase in Medicaid-covered clients—and for good reason:

  • No pre-authorizations for routine therapy

  • Reimbursement levels comparable to commercial payers

  • No chasing clients for large deductibles or co-pays

Is your practice fully credentialed and contracted with Ohio Medicaid MCPs in your region?

What might have seemed like an undesirable option years ago could now be a stable, strategic part of your payer mix.

Trend #3: Clients Are Paying Differently—And Expect Convenience

Technology continues to change how we live, communicate, and pay for services. The rise of smartphones, apps, and digital tools is reshaping client expectations—even in behavioral health.

Private practices must adapt to these modern payment preferences.

If you haven’t yet, it’s time to invest in:

  • Mobile card readers

  • Online payment portals

  • Support for FSA and HSA cards

  • Automated reminders and receipts

The easier you make it for clients to pay you, the faster your revenue cycle flows—and the fewer financial conversations you’ll have to chase down.

In Summary: Don’t Get Caught Off Guard

We know implementing these changes can feel like trying to drink from a firehose. But staying informed and proactive can position your practice for greater sustainability and success in the coming years.

At G&M Consulting, we bring over 43 years of experience in:

  • Credentialing

  • Contracting

  • Revenue cycle management

  • Marketing support for behavioral health practices

Let us know how we can support your team.
Visit our Contact Page to start the conversation.