Limited Time Offer: Headway’s giving me the opportunity to pay it forward to providers in my network this month! If you join/sign up for Headway using my link by 3/31/25, you’ll earn $350 (normally $100) when you complete your first session. I have been using headway on and off for years because it makes billing so simple + takes the headache out of decredentialing when the time comes to go to an all cash business. Read my complete review below and if you find it helpful, please use the affiliate link inside to sign up.

DISCLAIMER: Multiple links on this website are affiliate links, which means that I may earn a commission if you click on the link or make a purchase using the link. When you make a purchase, the price you pay will be the same whether you use the affiliate link or go directly to the vendor’s website using a non-affiliate link.

For your convenience we have listed some of our affiliate partners here: Amazon, Headway, Elizabeth Goddard, Tonic Site Shop, Branden Drake LLC, Canva, Mailerlite, ConvertKit, WordHero AI, ThriveCart, Airtable, SimplePractice, Liz Wilcox, Dropbox, Rakuten. A full list can be found in my Disclaimers page.

Though the products may not created by me, the opinions of the products are entirely my own. I only recommend products that I love and stand behind in hopes they help you as much as they helped me. By using the affiliate links, you are helping support this website and small business. I genuinely appreciate your support as it helps me to continue to create content such as this.

Daily, I see therapists asking for advice in Facebook groups about the pros and cons of various wellness platforms, including Alma, BetterHelp, Headway, and Talkspace. Since the start of the Coronavirus pandemic, I see these questions being asked even more than ever as telehealth grows and individuals start and grow their own private practice. With all the different options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which (if any) are good for you.

In this post I am going to take a deep dive into Headway, talk specifics about my experience and how it, despite its limitations, is a great FREE resource for therapist just starting out.

NOTE: I rejoined Headway in 2024 and have listed my updated thoughts/recommendations sprinkled throughout this review. If you are a skimmer… please be sure to read all the way down to the bottom of the post to hear the most up to date insights and opinions.

Headway At A Glance

Headway Pros

When I first started my private practice, I explored platforms like Headway to manage my client load. While these tools can be helpful, I quickly realized the importance of having full control over my marketing and client acquisition strategies, REGARDLESS if I am taking insurance or not. This is why I now teach therapists how to use blogging and SEO to attract their ideal clients without relying solely on third-party platforms.

Be sure to scroll to the bottom of this post to learn about attracting private pay clients to your practice.

Headway Cons

Why should you listen to me?

I opened my practice in 2020 as a way to supplement my income, later becoming a full time private practice owner in 2021. At that time I was using Alma exclusively and loved it as it allowed me the flexibility to find my ideal clients and had all the added perks of a community and continuing education.

In 2022 I took time off for maternity leave and knew that I would be returning at a reduced caseload level in order to raise my child. It was at that point that I reached out to Headway to learn more about what they had to offer. I was intrigued by the free price tag and though that this might be the ideal way to reduce expenses since I was maintaining a much smaller caseload.

After working with Headway for about 6 months, I did end my contract with them primarily due to the fact that I had remaining time left on my yearly Alma contract did not need both services as I managed my very small caseload. If I was not already paying for Alma, my decision might have been different.

As of September 2023, I will be running an out of network (OON) practice and will not be partnered with any insurance providers. Should this change in the future, I am likely to resume with Headway due to its free start up costs and comprehensive insurance coverage.

UPDATE: There was a time in my practice where I contemplated leavening the field entirely due to burnout. Instead I took some time away from therapy and came back in 2024 with a rebranded practice and an entirely new niche: pre surgery mental health evaluations for bariatric patients. [Side note: if you are thinking about adding a second income steam or a new niche, surgical evaluations and an easy way to repackage your current skillsets. Learn more about how I got started in my Facebook post.]

Since my new target audience is an extremely small demographic, who is planning to use their medical insurance for the remainder of their bariatric surgery, it made sense for me to re-enroll with some of Headway’s insurance options.

While platforms like Headway can be a great starting point for getting clients, they’re just one piece of the puzzle. If you’re looking to grow your private practice on your own terms—attracting ideal clients directly and building a business that aligns with your values—I’d love to help. Through my coaching, I teach therapists how to use blogging and SEO to create sustainable, client-attracting systems that work around the clock. Learn more about my coaching services here.

Insurance Billing Made Easy

In my state (New Jersey as of 2023 for a LCSW) reimbursement for the CPT code 90843 is somewhere between $77 and $103 and between $89 and $129.74 for 90837 (rates differ depending on the insurance).

Different locations and education levels have different reimbursement rates to my understanding so it is important to reach out to Headway directly to get the rates that are specific to you.

Rates may also change based on negotiations with insurance providers therefore the rates listed are only an example of what I was reimbursed as a LCSW in New Jersey in 2022 and may not be representative of what your state/licensure/insurance contract will provide.

Headway Pricing

You don’t get a much better price than FREE, but keep in mind you are getting exactly what you pay for. Headway is only a billing service, all your other practice needs such as continuing education, referrals/marketing, really are better severed on other platforms.

Learn more about how to market your therapy practice in my post about relationship marketing. In it I discuss some of my favorite ways to build brand awareness, one of which is blogging — a great (free) way to leverage the internet to work for you in getting your expertise and services in front of your ideal clients.

Related Post: What is SEO? How To Leverage SEO In Your Therapy Practice Marketing Strategy

Electronic Medical Record Included in Program

Taking accurate clinical documentation is essential for any provider. Headway makes this simple by incorporating dedicated space to log progress notes at the end of each session. This is a big bonus for the clinician who is just staring out and looking to keep fees low.

Related Post: Expert Resources for Mastering Clinical Documentation Like a Pro

I’ll be honest though, despite the fact that Headway has its own built in EHR, I still prefer to keep my own records using an outside source such as Simple Practice.

Why?

For starters, last I checked Headway does not provide clinicians the opportunity to download their past records if/when a client should request them. This accessibility is important not only for client requests, but also case coordination with other professionals, as well as legal compliance.

As a NJ social worker, I am required to maintain client records for a minimum of 7 years. Meaning, if I ever left Headway, I would need to have a way to access those records easily. For me personally, I felt more comfortable using SimplePractice. Read my complete review of SimplePractice Electronic Medical Record, here.

Additionally, when I used Headway I did not have the opportunity to upload documents into the client file or write chart notes. Meaning if I wanted to keep a record of client phone calls, emails, no shows, treatment plans, case coordination’s, etc.. I was unable to do so.

If you are stuck on what to write or how to write your progress notes, the Practice Planners series are great resources for how to word your interventions. Below are the current publications that they have available (Amazon affiliate links):

• The Child Psychotherapy Progress Notes Planner
• The Adolescent Psychotherapy Progress Notes Planner
• The Adult Psychotherapy Progress Notes Planner
• The Severe and Persistent Mental Illness Progress Notes Planner

These publications below (Amazon affiliate links) are a great tool for getting ideas as to what interventions and goals to use with clients as well as gives examples of how to best word the interventions when crafting your treatment plan.

• The Family Therapy Treatment Planner
• The Complete Adult Psychotherapy Treatment Planner
• The Adolescent Psychotherapy Treatment Planner
• The Addiction Treatment Planner
• The Child Psychotherapy Treatment Planner
• The Couples Psychotherapy Treatment Planner
• The Parenting Skills Treatment Planner
• The Severe and Persistent Mental Illness Treatment Planner
• The Crisis Counseling and Traumatic Events Treatment Planner
• The Co-Occurring Disorders Treatment Planner
• The Family Therapy Treatment Planner
• The Group Therapy Treatment Planner
• The Social Work and Human Services Treatment Planner
• The Suicide and Homicide Risk Assessment and Prevention Treatment Planner
• The Veterans and Active Duty Military Psychotherapy Treatment Planner
• The Juvenile Justice and Residential Care Treatment Planner

Headway Competitors

Alma is the primary competitor for Headway that I have found. There are perks to Alma which I do prefer over Headway, such as higher reimbursement rates, professional Zoom included in membership, and the community collaboration features.

My primary hesitation with referring Alma however is that I have received significant feedback from others which have lead me to believe that Alma’s service quality is inconsistent where as Headway has continued to maintain a positive reputation. For more details on Alma and the feedback I have received, please reference my complete review on Alma, here.

Technically BetterHelp and TalkSpace are competitors however their platforms run so different that in my mind it is no competition

The Gossip Among Therapists

Lets talk gossip for a moment.

You will see Headway haters all over the internet. No shame or shade, everyone has their opinions. But lets talk about it for a moment.

From what I read and hear in the Facebook groups, Headway has made significant policy changes as well as pending legal involvement starting big in around 2023. Full transparency the bulk of this review was done in 2022, with updates here and there as appropriate, but I do not know the details personally of these policy changes and legal matters therefore I cannot comment on them specifically.

Related Post: The Facebook Ads for List Building Bootcamp – Zach Spuckler: What You Need To Know (Complete Review)

I write this update not to scare you away from Headway but to remind you to conduct your own research before signing up for any services. I re-enrolled in Headway in 2024 because it was the best choice for my small business. Before I made that decision, I read their contract with a fine tooth comb to see what concerns (if any I had).

When I looked it over, I did not see anything that stood out to me as fishy or unethical. I did have some follow up questions which I addressed with onboarding staff and the replies I received were prompt and appropriate. That being said, I am not a lawyer or malpractice expert, so please be sure to read Headways terms and conditions before signing up to be confident that Headway is the best decision for your practice.

As per the gossip about legal cases involving Headway…. again I do not know the details enough to make an opinion. I can say however that when I Google “company lawsuits” a ridiculous amount of well-known companies also pop-up, many of which are still actively servicing customers, and many of which I myself am still an active customer.

I also make sure that before my clients sign up for an intake with me, they are aware of my involvement with Headway as a billing platform and recommend they read Headways privacy contract prior to our scheduled appointment. This is also in my contract with them which they sign prior to our scheduled appointment.

Related Post: Therapy Contracts 101: The 8 Non-Negotiables You Need to Know

Once again, I am not a lawyer or malpractice expert, so please be sure to do your own research before signing up so that you are confident that Headway is the best decision for your practice.

I have been satisfied with their services and customer experience. I can only speak from my experiences as a provider and their impact on my business.

You do not need to agree with me, all I can do is share my opinions in hopes that they help you make an informed decision. If you are looking for alternative to Headway, please check out my review of Alma.

Many therapists I coach have seen success with Headway after refining their marketing strategies to attract more private-pay clients. While Headway handles the billing side, marketing coaching can help you attract your ideal clients. Interested in learning more about how I can help you? Click here.

Who is Headway right for?

• Therapists & Counselors in mental health (i.e.. Phd, PsyD, LCSW, LPC, LMFT, LCADC)
• Psychologist, Psychiatrists and APN’s who conduct psychotherapy sessions
• Seasoned private practice owners
• Group practice owners
• Newly licensed clinicians who are thinking about the idea of private practice and want to “try it out” before investing in their business
• New private practice owners with no specific niche
• “Generalists” -therapist who consider themselves to be a Jack-of-All-Trades and enjoy working with a variety of individuals
• Trauma providers
• EMDR Providers
• Couples Counselors
• The full time parent with a license to practice mental health– Headway being a free resource allows you to make money even if you are only seeing 1-2 clients.
• Private Pay therapist who are struggling to get clients — my recommendation would be to trial one insurance (the highest reimbursement rate) just to help get your practice running. You can always de-panel off the insurance once you feel you have a solid marketing plan and are attracting OON clients
• Therapists who do not want to spend a lot of time marketing themselves and advocating for the benefits of working with an OON provider. Because lets be real, yes you are going to have to market yourself no matter what, but OON providers have to work harder to get the same sale.
• Super niche populations where the clientele is already expecting to use their medical insurance. For example my first specialty (Concussions and Brain Injury) I was expecting to get referrals as an OON provider from my previous job at a hospital based program. I learned quickly that these clients had been using their medical insurance from day one on all things head injury, therefore it was understandable that they expected to continue that trend with mental health. Added to the fact that their other medical expenses were/are SUPER expensive so even if they wanted to go OON, many were stretched so thin financially that it did not make sense.

Headway is a great choice for therapists who want help with billing, but it’s only one part of running a successful practice. For those who want to attract high-quality clients and build a sustainable, thriving practice, investing in marketing coaching can make all the difference. Check out my coaching program tailored specifically for therapists here.

Who should avoid Headway?

• Unlicensed professionals and interns— One of the big draws to Headway is being able to bill insurance. If you are unlicensed or and intern, insurance will not cover your service therefore you must be cash pay only
• Alternative healers such as reiki, cranio-sacral, massage, etc.— I have not seen much activity from or for these types of services through Headway therefore is your practice offers these services exclusively, I would recommend starting your own private practice
• Practitioner that has a super specialized niche and is getting private pay clients with ease.  You are better off building your cash pay practice if you can get clients without insurance.

Why Private Practitioners Should Market Themselves Beyond Insurance Panels

Platforms like Headway simplify billing and connects therapists with clients through insurance panels, however, relying solely on insurance referrals can leave your private practice vulnerable.

What happens if insurance companies stop sending you referrals, or you want to depanel and transition to private pay clients? The truth is, your long-term success depends on your ability to market yourself and attract the right clients—those who value your expertise and are willing to invest in your services.

In the sections below I will explore the benefits of learning to market yourself as a private practitioner and offer actionable strategies for those considering depaneling. Plus, I’ll share how my VIP Coaching Package can guide you through this process step-by-step, ensuring your practice thrives.

The Benefits of Marketing Yourself as a Private Practitioner

When you rely solely on insurance providers for client referrals, you may feel like you’re giving up control of your practice. Marketing yourself isn’t just a skill—it’s a necessity. Here’s why:

1. Take Control of Your Caseload

Insurance referrals often mean taking on clients who may not fit your ideal niche or who come with lower reimbursement rates. When you market yourself, you can intentionally design a caseload filled with clients who align with your expertise and interests. Read more in: 3 Unexpected Ways To Market Your Counseling Services To New Clients With Ease,

2. Build a Recognizable Personal Brand

Marketing helps you establish your unique identity as a therapist. Whether you specialize in trauma therapy, women’s mental health, or family counseling, your brand allows potential clients to connect with your message before they even book a session. Read more in Grow Your Private Practice: Effective Strategies for Building a Strong Brand

Related Post: Private Practice Rebrand: What I’m Doing Differently This Time Around

3. Boost Your Income Potential

Private pay clients typically pay higher rates, and by attracting them through intentional marketing, you can reduce your overall caseload while maintaining or even increasing your income. This also gives you more freedom to focus on professional growth and self-care. Read more in How To Be A Wealthy Therapist: 5 Secrets Uncovered.

Related Post: Shedding Light On The 5 Factors That Shape Therapist Salary

4. Diversify Your Referral Sources

Marketing yourself allows you to build a network that includes colleagues, community leaders, and even former clients who can recommend your services. This makes your practice more resilient and less dependent on one referral source. Read more in Need Passive Income Ideas? Here Are 5 Profitable Digital Products Every Therapist Must Consider.

Thinking About Depaneling? Essential Marketing Strategies to Implement

If you’re considering depaneling and transitioning to a private-pay model, having a marketing strategy in place is crucial. Here are the strategies I teach in my VIP Coaching Package:

1. Optimize Your Website

Your website is your digital storefront. In my coaching packages I’ll show you how to craft a compelling homepage, service pages that speak to your ideal client’s needs, and blog content that establishes you as an authority. With my guidance, we’ll use tools like SEO to ensure your practice shows up in search results when clients look for help in your specialty.

Related Post: What is SEO? How To Leverage SEO In Your Therapy Practice Marketing Strategy

2. Master Client-Focused Copywriting

Your website and marketing materials should speak directly to your ideal client, addressing their pain points and showing how you can help. In my coaching program, I provide personalized copywriting audits to ensure your messaging connects and converts.

Want someone else to write your copy for you? Learn about my done for you copy service here.

3. Build an Email Marketing System

An email list is one of the most effective tools for staying in touch with potential clients and referral partners. Through my coaching, I’ll teach you how to create email sequences that nurture leads and generate bookings without being salesy.

Be sure to grab my FREE email marketing welcome series templates to help get you started.

4. Leverage Social Media and Content Marketing

Social media and blogging are powerful ways to connect with potential clients. I’ll help you develop a content strategy that showcases your expertise, grows your audience, and directs traffic to your website.

Don’t forget to download my free blog templates to help you write your content faster.

5. Network Intentionally

Networking isn’t just about attending events—it’s about building genuine relationships. I’ll show you how to create partnerships with other therapists, medical professionals, and community leaders to build a steady stream of referrals. Catch my complete lesson in the replay from my latest challenge.

My VIP Coaching Package – Your Roadmap to Success

Transitioning away from insurance panels or growing your private practice to new heights doesn’t have to be overwhelming. My VIP Coaching Package is designed specifically for mental health therapists who are ready to:

• Attract private-pay clients who value their expertise.
• Build a thriving practice that aligns with their personal and professional goals.
• Diversify their income streams for long-term financial stability.

What You’ll Get in the VIP Coaching Package:

• Custom Marketing Strategy: A step-by-step plan tailored to your practice and goals, including client acquisition systems and income diversification strategies.
• Copywriting Audits: Personalized feedback to optimize your website, social media, and email marketing materials.
• Hands-On Support: Weekly 1:1 coaching sessions where we tackle your unique challenges and set actionable goals.
• Psychology Today Profile Optimization: Stand out from the crowd with a profile that grabs attention and converts viewers into clients.
• Accountability and Guidance: I’ll be there to keep you on track, celebrate your wins, and adjust strategies as needed.

You’ve worked hard to become a skilled therapist. Now it’s time to take control of your practice and build a business that works for you. If you’re ready to stop relying solely on insurance panels and start attracting your ideal clients, I can help.

>>> Let’s create the private practice you’ve always dreamed of, apply for coaching today.

Conclusion

If you’re just getting your practice off the ground and have a couple of clients, or if you are working full time at an agency and doing private practice on the side, Headway might be a great fit for you. The fact that it is completely free allows you to maximize your income, which is a huge benefit when you have a small case load of 2-3 clients weekly.

While Headway solves many logistical challenges for therapists, growing your practice involves much more. If you’re ready to take your practice to the next level, investing in marketing coaching can help you attract the right clients and create a sustainable business model. Learn how my coaching services can help you build a thriving practice.