May 8, 2023
Seeking professional help for mental health issues can be both a difficult and expensive journey. It becomes more challenging when you are on a budget and have to pay out of your pocket for therapy sessions. However, many health insurance policies cover psychotherapy and mental health services. If you are considering virtual therapy, finding an online therapist who accepts insurance can save you a lot of money. Here are some valuable tips to help you find online therapy that accepts insurance.
Is Online Therapy Covered By Insurance?
When it comes to seeking therapy, many people aren't able to receive counseling because of the cost. However, with the rise of online therapy, it has become more accessible and affordable for individuals to receive mental health support. But the question remains: is online therapy covered by insurance?
Short answer: Yes. Longer answer: It depends on the insurance provider and the specific plan that an individual has. The vast majority of insurance plans do cover online therapy, especially since the pandemic when online therapy became a necessity. However, it's still important to check with your insurance provider and read the fine print of your policy to understand the coverage options.
It's worth noting that the COVID-19 pandemic has led to changes in insurance coverage for telehealth services, including online therapy. Many insurance providers have expanded their coverage to include virtual mental health services due to the increased demand and need for remote healthcare options.
Online Therapists Who Accept Insurance
Most therapists who offer online therapy will accept insurances. What type of insurance is dependent on the individual. In general, you can receive online therapy covered by insurance for:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- PTSD
- Grief and Loss
- ADHD
- OCD
- Substance Use
- Anger Management
- Eating disorders
And more!
The bottom line is that insurance coverage for online therapy is becoming more common and accessible. With so many therapists and platforms offering insurance options, you may be pleasantly surprised at the affordability and accessibility of virtual mental health support.
With insurance, most people only end up paying between $20-$50 for an online therapy session!
How to Find the Best Online Therapy Services that Accept Insurance
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Check with Your Insurance Provider
Before you sign up for an online therapy session, it's essential to check whether your insurance company covers virtual therapy. Most insurance plans provide coverage for teletherapy at par with in-person therapy visits. If you're unsure, call your insurance provider and inquire about their coverage. You should also have access to a client portal with your insurance company. There many insurance companies put a list of in-network mental health therapists that you can talk to at a reduced rate. If you're unsure, give Lifebulb a call and we would be happy to verify your benefits for you. Lifebulb employs over 100 online therapists and accepts most major health insurances.
Research Online Therapy Platforms
It's vital to do some market research on various online therapy platforms to find the one that suits your needs. Look for platforms that provide online therapy sessions with licensed therapists that accept insurance. Research the platform's website, check their therapist's qualifications and experience, read client reviews, and compare the session fees to see which one fits your budget. Platforms like BetterHelp and Talkspace are two examples of online therapy platforms that work with insurance providers.
Talk to a Therapist Who Accepts Insurance
If you have a preferred therapist, you can ask if they offer online therapy services and accept insurance. They may also have a private practice that provides virtual therapy, which may be more suitable for your specific needs and preferences. You'll need to verify that they accept insurance and ask them to provide their NPI number before scheduling an appointment. Your therapist can also assist you in navigating your insurance policies and provide guidance on how to file claims.
Check Your Insurance Policies and Coverage
There are different policies for health insurance coverage, and not all of them cover mental health services. It's essential to check your policy and understand the coverage and out-of-pocket expenses before starting therapy. You'll also want to look into which therapy services your insurance plan covers, as some may only cover select mental health treatments. After all, to make sure you get the most out of your insurance policies, you must browse the coverage options, including the one that is best suited for you.
Book an Appointment
Once you have found the right online therapist and verified your insurance coverage, it's time to book an appointment. Most virtual therapy providers offer easy scheduling through their platform, and you'll have several options in terms of therapists and the type of therapy session you need. You'll need to provide your insurance information before booking an appointment so that they can verify your coverage and what you will be responsible for paying.
Conclusion
Finding an online therapist who accepts insurance can be a lifesaver for those navigating mental health issues and financial difficulties. By researching and comparing different online therapy platforms, verifying your insurance coverage, and choosing a therapist you are comfortable with, you can find the right help to assist you in your mental health journey. Teletherapy is becoming more popular and connecting with a professional therapist has never been more accessible and affordable. Start exploring your options today to get the help you need.
