What happens if I miss a therapy session?

A: Most private-practice therapists charge for sessions cancelled inside a 24–48 hour window — often the full fee — because your slot is held for you weekly and can't be re-filled last-minute. Two things to know: insurance never pays late-cancel fees (they're billed straight to you), and the policy must be in the written agreement you signed at intake, not invented later.

Worked example: a Tuesday-morning cancellation of a Wednesday 4 pm session at $180 = $180 out of pocket. A Sunday cancellation of the same session = $0.

Do this: ask at intake: "What's your cancellation window, and do you waive it for illness or emergencies?" Most therapists flex for real emergencies and first offenses — and many offer a telehealth or reschedule option inside the window. Get the policy in writing and set a calendar reminder 48 hours before your slot.

Source: TherapyCalifornia logistics guides, August 2026.