Thankfully, we are seeing an increasing appreciation for mental health counseling. More and more insurance companies are beginning to cover some or all of the costs associated with therapy. Unfortunately, it can be overwhelming to know where to start when it comes to understanding health insurance and therapy.
We have created this guide which will help you better understand what therapy is typically covered by health insurance, how you can use those resources, and when it’s time to talk to a mental health professional.
Is Therapy Covered By Health Insurance?
The good news is that many health insurance plans do cover some kind of mental health counseling. However, not every plan is the same: it depends on the specific provider and your individual policy. It’s important to check with your insurance company and ask what kind of coverage they provide for mental health counseling services.
What Exactly Does It Cover?
Once you have determined if your health insurance covers mental health counseling services, it’s important to understand exactly what that means. Mental health coverage typically covers talk therapy, which is a form of psychotherapy. This could include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or other evidence-based forms of therapy. It may also cover psychiatric medication such as antidepressants and/or anti-anxiety medications prescribed by a psychiatrist. Other things it may cover include:
- Individual, family, or couples therapy sessions
- Psychiatric evaluations and assessments
- Treatment plans and ongoing monitoring
How Do You Know if Therapy is Covered by Your Insurance?
The best way to determine your coverage is to contact your insurance provider directly. Ask them what kind of mental health services they cover and how much they will pay for each service. It’s important to ask questions like:
- Does my plan have a deductible?
- Is there a copay?
- Are there any restrictions on providers or treatments?
If you still have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to your insurance provider and ask for clarification.
What Else You Should Know About Health Insurance and Therapy
It’s important to know that insurance coverage varies by state, plan type, and provider. Additionally, some therapies may be excluded from coverage or only partially covered. It’s also important to know that many mental health counselors are not in-network providers, meaning they do not accept insurance payments directly.
If you are working with an out-of-network provider, there may be additional costs associated with your treatment.
When To Talk to a Mental Health Professional
It’s important to remember that mental health is just as important as physical health. If you are experiencing emotional struggles or have any symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other mental illness, reach out for help. A qualified mental health professional can provide treatment and support during this difficult time. It can be intimidating to talk to someone about your feelings but know that seeking help is never a sign of weakness but rather an act of strength.
Let Bethany Insurance Help You
There are many resources available when it comes to understanding and navigating the world of health insurance and therapy. By following these tips, you can make sure that you get the help you need and deserve. If you are feeling overwhelmed with insurance questions, reach out to the experts at Bethany Insurance. We will get you taken care of!
