Online therapy, also known as teletherapy, is often covered by insurance, but coverage can vary depending on several factors. Here’s what you need to know:
Many insurance providers now cover online therapy sessions, especially in light of the increased demand during the COVID-19 pandemic. This includes major providers like Blue Cross Blue Shield and Aetna. In many states, mental health parity laws require insurance companies to cover mental health services, including online therapy, on par with physical health services. This means that if your insurance covers in-person therapy, it likely also covers online therapy.
Most insurance plans that cover mental health services will cover individual online therapy sessions. Some insurance plans also cover online group therapy sessions. Coverage may extend to family therapy sessions conducted online, depending on the plan.
What Factors Affect Insurance Coverage?
Factors that affect insurance coverage include the type of plan you have, whether your therapist is accepted in the provider network for your plan, and state laws. Coverage can vary widely depending on your specific insurance plan as some plans may cover a certain number of sessions per year, while others may require a co-pay. To be covered, the therapist or teletherapy platform you use must often be within your insurance network. Some out-of-network providers may also be covered, but usually at a lower rate. Coverage can also depend on state regulations, which vary. Some states have mandated coverage for telehealth services, while others may have more limited options.
How Do I Know If My Insurance Provider Covers Teletherapy?
The best way to know if your insurance covers online therapy is to contact your insurance provider directly. Ask specifically about teletherapy or online mental health services.However, many therapists are willing to check your insurance coverage as a courtesy to you, but cannot be held responsible if your insurance company does not provide them with accurate information.
Even if online therapy is covered by your insurance company, you may still be responsible for co-pays, coinsurance, or meeting a deductible before coverage kicks in. If you use an out-of-network provider, you might have to pay upfront and then submit a claim to your insurance company for reimbursement. If your insurance doesn’t cover teletherapy, some therapists offer sliding scale fees based on your income. Some employers offer EAPs that include teletherapy services as part of their benefits package, either at no cost or with minimal co-pays.
Online therapy is frequently covered by insurance, but the extent of coverage depends on your specific plan, provider network, and state regulations. To ensure your sessions are covered, it’s important to verify with both your insurance company and your therapist.
Online Therapy in Alabama
If you are an Alabama resident and would like to learn more about online therapy and/or what insurance coverage we accept, please contact us.
