Talking to Insurance Companies about Coverage for Therapy
Many individuals have difficulty identifying what their health insurance covers regarding mental health/behavioral health treatment. Here is an idea of what that conversation would look like, as well as some important questions to ask when contacting your insurance:
“I am looking for a mental health provider that provides _________ (individual, group, family, or marriage therapy). I would like to know what my insurance coverage is for mental health services. The information I need to find out is what my deductible is; what my copayments are; do I need prior approval; if there is a limit on session numbers; and what providers are in network with my insurance plan. I am looking for a _________ (type of therapist) for _________ (simple description of issue/help needed).”
Ideas for Discussion Points:
- “I would like to attend therapy _________.”
- By myself
- With my partner
- With my family
- With my child
- In a group setting
- Other:
- “I would like to work with someone who is trained in _________.”
- Depression
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Anxiety
- Eating disorders
- Substance abuse
- Family issues
- ADHD
- EMDR therapy
- Other:
Oftentimes insurance companies know which providers or agencies work with certain issues or treatment modalities, so they will be able to match you with the best provider possible.
- “I am looking for a ______ to be my mental health clinician.”
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker
- Marriage and Family Therapist
- Clinical Mental Health Counselor
- Psychologist
- Psychiatrist
- Licensed Professional Counselor
- Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor
- Other:
- “How much is my deductible?”
- “How much is my copayment?”
- “Is there a limit on the number of sessions I can attend?”
- “What provider is in network my insurance plan?”
- In network: Covered by insurance plan, generally the cheapest option
- “Does my plan cover out-of-network providers?”
- Out of network: Not covered by insurance plan, generally the more expensive option
- “Do I need prior approval?”
Cash Discounts and Payment Plans
If you are paying out-of-pocket (no insurance coverage) for therapy, 4 Healing Center offers a discount of $40 for intake sessions and a discount of $20 for regular sessions.
4 Healing Center is happy to offer payment plans that fit your schedule. Please call or talk to the office manager for more information.
4 Healing Center offers a one-time $20 discount for clients who write a review on Google, Facebook, Health Grades, Yelp, etc. To do this, look up 4 Healing Center on Google, Facebook, Health Grades, or Yelp and rate the Center and write a review, and show the office administrator your post.