Cost is one of the most common reasons people put off getting mental health support. We want to help make that barrier smaller. Many people are surprised to find that therapy is more covered than they expected — and that finding an in-network therapist who's actually a good fit is possible.
By the numbers:
Most insurance plans are required by law to cover mental health services at the same level as physical health — thanks to the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act
In-network therapy copays typically range from $15 to $70 per session — often less than the cost of a single dinner out
GoodTherapy connects you with therapists across 100+ insurance networks — including Aetna, Cigna, BCBS, UnitedHealthcare, Medicare, and Medicaid
How using insurance for therapy works
Using insurance for therapy works similarly to using it for any other healthcare visit — but there are a few things worth understanding upfront so there are no surprises.
In-network vs. out-of-network
In-network therapists have a contract with your insurance plan, which means your plan covers a set portion of the cost and you pay a copay — typically $15 to $70 per session. Out-of-network therapists can still be partially covered by some plans (usually PPO plans), but you'll typically pay more and may need to submit claims yourself for reimbursement.
Deductibles
Some plans require you to meet a deductible before insurance starts paying. If you haven't met yours yet, you may pay more for the first few sessions. Many plans waive the deductible for mental health copays, though — it's worth checking your specific plan details.
What's typically covered
Most major plans cover individual therapy, family therapy, group therapy, and telehealth sessions. Some cover specialized approaches like CBT, DBT, and EMDR. Couples counseling is often excluded unless it's tied to a diagnosable condition — but individual therapy for relationship concerns is usually covered.
Diagnosis and billing
When using insurance, your therapist will typically provide a diagnosis code to bill your plan. This is standard and doesn't define you — it's a billing requirement. If you have concerns about privacy or your insurance record, this is a good thing to discuss with a potential therapist before starting.
What to expect by insurance plan
Every plan is different — these are general estimates to give you a starting point. Always verify your specific benefits with your insurer or the therapist's office before your first session.
Blue Cross Blue Shield — In-network copays typically $15 to $50 per session. Covers individual, child, virtual, and evidence-based therapy. Couples counseling usually excluded unless medically necessary.
Aetna — In-network copays typically $15 to $50. Covers individual, family, group, couples, and virtual therapy. Some plans waive cost entirely. Online therapy often has lower copays.
Cigna — In-network copays typically $15 to $60. Virtual therapy covered with average $20 copay. Some plans offer no-cost outpatient visits. No separate deductible from employer medical plan on some plans.
UnitedHealthcare — In-network copays typically $15 to $70. Many plans offer $0 copay for telehealth. Most plans have no session limits annually. Deductible may or may not apply.
Medicare Part B — Covers mental health and substance use services. After meeting the Part B deductible, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount. Telehealth covered for mental health.
Medicaid — Covers mental health therapy at little to no cost depending on your state. Copays typically $2 to $5 per visit. Coverage and eligibility vary by state.
What if you don't have insurance — or your plan doesn't cover therapy?
Not having insurance doesn't mean therapy is out of reach. Many therapists on GoodTherapy offer sliding scale fees — meaning they adjust their rate based on what you can afford. It's always worth asking.
Ask about sliding scale rates — many therapists reserve a number of lower-cost spots for clients who need them
Look into community mental health centers, which often offer income-based pricing
Telehealth sessions are often more affordable than in-person visits
Group therapy is typically less expensive than individual sessions and can be equally effective for many concerns
Ask your employer — many offer an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) that includes free or low-cost therapy sessions
Tips for getting the most from your insurance coverage
A little preparation goes a long way toward a smooth experience.
Call your insurance first
Before booking, call the member services number on the back of your insurance card. Ask specifically: Do I have mental health benefits? What is my copay? Do I have a deductible? Do I need a referral? This takes 10 minutes and can save you from surprises on your first bill.
Confirm with the therapist's office directly
Even if a therapist is listed as in-network, it's worth calling their office to confirm before your first session. Insurance directories aren't always up to date — and confirming ahead of time means no billing surprises.
Don't let insurance be the only factor
The most important thing in therapy is finding someone you feel comfortable with. If a therapist accepts your insurance but doesn't feel like the right fit, it's okay to keep looking. GoodTherapy lets you filter by insurance and read full profiles — so you can find someone who is both covered and genuinely right for you.
Your benefits are there to be used.
Search therapists by your insurance plan, location, and specialty. Reading profiles and reaching out is always free.
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