Does Health Insurance Cover Mental Health Therapy, Counseling and Treatment Programs?

A MISSION FOR MICHAEL

15 minutes read
Psychologist writing notes during a mental health therapy appointment.

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If you have been struggling with your mental health, you may have noticed the effects in your work, relationships, thoughts, or even how you feel physically. A Mission For Michael (AMFM) provides whole-person residential care, including counseling and therapy services. Our comprehensive treatment programs are located in California, Washington, and Virginia.

At AMFM Mental Health Treatment Centers, we provide treatment for a range of mental health and dual diagnosis concerns. We can personalize your treatment experience by using evidence-based and holistic approaches to address your specific needs. In some cases, this can include psychiatric treatment and medications. We would like to spend time today reviewing how psychotherapy can help with a range of mental health conditions, and how your insurance policy can affect your out-of-pockets costs.

Understanding Mental Health Disorders?

Mental health disorders are a specific grouping of conditions that are outlined within the Diagnostic and Statistical Manuel of Mental Health Disorders (DSM). This resource is used by mental health professionals to understand, and diagnose mental health conditions. These conditions can affect your mood, thinking, behavior, or a combination of each.

Mental health disorders can generally occur in a range of severity, from mild to severe. Some can cope with their symptoms and navigate their daily life well. Others experience a significant amount of psychological distress that requires professional support. Mental health conditions can be the result of several factors, the most common being genetics, your environment, and your experiences. Some conditions, like post-traumatic stress disorder, are triggered by specific events.

You can experience a range of symptoms, depending on the mental health disorder that you are living with. The DSM has these conditions listed in groupings of similar conditions. This includes anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, personality disorders, bipolar and related disorders, obsessive-compulsive and related disorders, and trauma-and stressor related disorders. Each condition has their own set of symptoms, which separates it from other disorders within its category. If you have been struggling with persistent or worsening mental health symptoms, we encourage you to contact A Mission For Michael for a complimentary mental health assessment. This allows us to provide you with a personalized recommendation for treatment. Dial (866)478-4383 today to get started.

Mental health treatment and therapy are often used to address mental health concerns, ranging from mild to severe impairment. Counseling and therapy can support you in your healing process by introducing effective coping skills and helping you gain a more profound insight into your condition. The intensity of treatment ranges between residential and outpatient therapy.

Because of the individualized nature of mental health concerns, treatment is commonly tailored to your personal needs. This can include a range of approaches including behavioral therapy, cognitive therapy, holistic healing approaches, trauma recovery approaches, and supportive therapy. Your treatment schedule may include individual therapy, group therapy, or even family therapy, depending on your needs.

Additional differences can be found in the duration of your treatment. Those who are experiencing moderate to severe mental health challenges may require additional support compared to those with mild symptoms. This could mean that you engage in different levels of care, or that you stay in a treatment program for a longer duration. Medication management services may also be required on a long-term basis, especially for those who are taking medications for mood disorders, bipolar related disorders, and schizophrenia spectrum disorders. Insurance policies may require that you obtain prior authorization for long-term treatment.

Behavioral health insurance coverage is a common component of insurance plans. The Affordable Care Act of 2010 requires that insurance providers offer coverage for some mental health services, including inpatient mental health services, counseling and psychotherapy, and substance use disorder treatment.

Insurance coverage can provide you with financial indemnity regarding any losses associated with treatment costs. Your insurance plan may have specific deductibles, co-pays, and plan exclusions that can affect your out-of-pocket expenses. Your plan may include an umbrella policy that can include a broad range of mental health treatment options. If you would like to learn about the details associated with your insurance plan, we encourage you to complete the insurance verification form available with AMFM Mental Health Treatment Centers.

How To Check My Health Insurance Coverage Levels for Therapy at AMFM

To begin learning about the scope of your insurance coverage, complete the AMFM insurance verification form.  This provides us with the information we need to contact your insurance company and learn about the details of your coverage. We will ask about out-of-pocket expenses, limitations, exclusions, and required prior authorizations.

Our admission team can then help you understand how your insurance coverage relates to the treatment options available within AMFM Mental Health Treatment Centers. For assistance with this process, contact AMFM today.

Which Health Insurance Providers Cover Mental Health Therapy Near Me?

Examples of major insurance providers who offer mental health benefits include Aetna, Cigna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Magellan, Kaiser Permanente, and United HealthCare. Each of these insurance companies offers a range of brands and services which provide varying coverage options. This allows members to choose plans that fit their budgets and healthcare needs.

When you file a claim for mental health services, an insurance adjuster will process your claim to make sure that the services you received fall within the bounds of your coverage. To gain a better understanding of your coverage options, we encourage you to review the benefits outlined in the endorsements associated with your policy. Understanding your coverage options can help you effectively navigate your mental health treatment options.

Are Mental Health Disorders Considered a Disability for Insurance Claims?

There are some cases where mental health disorders are considered disabilities for insurance claims. This is dependent on the specific mental health condition you’re experiencing, and its severity. To receive this qualification, it is necessary to show that your mental health disorder impairs your daily functioning, hindering your overall mental wellness.

Your insurance company may require documentation showing that your mental health condition is affecting your daily life. The underwriting process is used to determine the extent of coverage that you’ll receive. Disability benefits may include psychotherapy costs, or income replacement. For assistance understanding your insurance benefits for insured members, contact AMFM today by dialing (866)478-4383 today.

Mental Health Therapy Programs Covered By Insurance Near Me

A Mission For Michael (AMFM) can provide you with residential therapy and counseling services. We blend various therapeutic techniques, wellness programs, and holistic healing methods to support you in your healing process. Our high-end accommodations have been designed with comfort in mind. Call (866)478-4383 to explore available treatment options today.

Common Mental Health Disorders Treated by Therapists and Covered by Insurance

Mental health treatment can be beneficial for a range of mental health conditions. Your insurance coverage can include various therapeutic techniques and approaches that have been proven effective. Some of the commonly treated conditions that insurance provides coverage for include:

Therapy for Personality Disorders

Personality disorders are known for causing chronic disruptive patterns of thoughts and behaviors. These disorders can have a negative impact on academics, employment, and personal relationships. Some conditions have an increased risk for dual-diagnosis conditions like anxiety, depression, and trauma related disorders. Treatment can include inpatient, care, outpatient treatment, and medication management services in some cases for specific symptoms.

Therapy for Anxiety Disorders

Psychotherapy can be used for various anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder, panic attacks, and specific phobias. Treatment can focus on helping you develop affecting coping strategies for persistent worry, fears, and other anxiety symptoms. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an example of an evidence-based approach used to treat anxiety disorders.

Therapy for Depression Disorders

Depressive disorders, including major depressive disorder, postpartum depression, and persistent depressive disorder, are examples of conditions that benefit from mental health treatment. Counseling and therapy sessions can focus on symptoms like low mood, hopelessness, fatigue, and guilt. Your treatment can include a range of psychological interventions including group therapy and individual therapy focusing on providing emotional support.

Therapy for ADHD Disorder

Attention-Deficit and Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) can include inattention, hyperactivity and impulsiveness, or a combination of both. Behavioral therapy approaches can be used to help you learn to manage your symptoms. Your provider may provide medication management services, offering stimulant and non-stimulant medication options.

Therapy for PTSD Disorder

Post traumatic stress disorder can occur after experiencing a traumatic event. Trauma recovery programs can include Eye Movement and Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Group therapy, psychoeducation, and effective coping skills are often incorporated into PTSD treatment programs.

Therapy for Schizophrenia Disorder

Schizophrenia spectrum disorders are known for causing psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and other cognitive disruptions. Treatment for these disorders can include family therapy and medication management services. Care for these conditions is often long-term, to ensure medication compliance and overall mental wellness.

Therapy for Bipolar Disorders

Bipolar disorders can include mood disruptions including manic episodes, hypomanic episodes, and depressive episodes. Treatment for these conditions often includes psychoeducation, counseling, and medication management services. Psychiatric care is often used long-term to help reduce the risk and intensity of mood episodes.

Does Health Insurance Cover Therapists Near Me?

Insurance providers often provide coverage for mental health therapists within your area. You may have limitation regarding available treatment services; however, coverage is often centered around your geographical location. Choosing an in-network provider can reduce treatment costs, and lower the risk of coverage being denied.

You may be responsible for out-of-pocket expenses like premiums, deductibles, and copay. Verifying coverage allows you to understand if you have limitations regarding the level of care and psychological interventions being used.

Does Health Insurance Cover Therapy Near Me?

Your insurance coverage may include one or more local mental health treatment providers. This may include both private and public providers, offering a range of inpatient and outpatient treatment services. Your coverage is often centered around your local community, allowing you to access convenient mental health treatment. 

Your insurance coverage can include the use of medication management services, talk therapy, and various therapeutic techniques. If you have limited access to mental health providers in your community, you may have coverage options for virtual mental health services.

Does Private Insurance Cover Medications Prescribed for Mental Health Therapy?

Yes, many insurance providers offer prescription drug coverage. This commonly includes medications that are used to treat mental health conditions, such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers. These medications are often used in addition to psychotherapy to provide comprehensive care.

Prescription drug coverage may involve co-pays, deductibles, or prior authorization. Additionally, some insurance plans have limitations or exclusions for name brand medications, and require the use of generic options when available. Prescription drug coverage can include medications that are used on a long-term basis for continued mental health support.

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    Find out about our free assessments and admissions process

    We accept most major insurance providers and can check your coverage levels for you.

    If we are not an appropriate provider for care, we will assist in finding a care provider that can help. 

    What Options For Mental Health Therapy Programs May Be Covered by Insurance Near Me?

    Mental health insurance companies often provide coverage for a range of mental health therapy programs. These programs are tailored address-specific needs based on the intensity of your symptoms. Though this is not an exhaustive list, commonly approved mental health treatment programs include:

    Residential treatment programs provide you with professional support and care around the clock. These immersive treatment programs are ideal for those experiencing moderate to severe symptoms, who are struggling without continuous support. These programs can vary in duration. Insurance companies often provide coverage for residential treatment when it is medically necessary.

    Dual diagnosis therapy programs are designed to address the complex nature of co-existing mental health conditions. These programs are often available in both inpatient and outpatient programs, so you can engage in care appropriate for your symptoms. These programs address both mental health concerns at the same time, helping you progress in your healing process.

    Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs), or day treatment programs, provide you with structured counseling and therapy services during the day. These programs allow you to return home in the evenings and practice using the coping strategies you have learned in treatment. Insurance providers often provide coverage for PHPs, though they may require prior authorization.

    Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs) are an outpatient treatment options that provides intensive, yet flexible treatment. IOPs often have morning and evening sessions, accommodating work, schooling, and other responsibilities. Insurance companies often provide coverage for IOPs, though you may need to obtain prior authorization before engaging in treatment.

    Virtual therapy platforms can help you access treatment for anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. This can include services like wellness coaching, group therapy, and medication management services. Virtual mental health treatment services are increasingly covered by health insurance.

    Outpatient therapy sessions can include weekly or biweekly individual or group therapy sessions. Some outpatient treatment centers offer psychiatric treatment, including medication management services. Outpatient services are ideal for those who are experiencing mild to moderate symptoms, that are manageable. Insurance programs often include coverage for outpatient psychotherapy.

    How Much Does Mental Health Therapy Cost With Insurance Coverage Near Me?

    The cost of mental health care therapy with insurance can vary due to individualized details of insurance policies. Typically, insurance policies have specific out-of-pocket expenses in the forms of copay, deductibles, and coinsurance. These details of your plan will have a direct impact on the expenses that you face.

    With that being said, the cost of therapy with insurance is typically more affordable than paying out of pocket. Insurance companies do offer a range of plans and services, which allows policyholders to choose coverage based on their needs. Because of this, it is important to verify your insurance so you can make an informed decision about your treatment.

    mental health doctor holding hand of patient while giving psychological support to her during therapy

    How Much Does Mental Health Therapy Cost Without Private Insurance Coverage?

    The cost of mental health treatment without insurance is dependent on the care you receive. Different treatment programs have different costs to reflect the intensity of the services they provide. Residential treatment can range from $500 to $2,000 per day, generally more than traditional outpatient therapy costs.

    Outpatient therapy sessions can cost between $100 and $200, with lower costs associated with group therapy sessions. Intensive outpatient programs, including PHPs and IOPs, generally have higher costs than traditional outpatient therapy. This is because of the intensive treatment they provide. Additional factors that can affect the cost of treatment include the treatment center’s location, the staff’s credentials and experience, access to specialized and holistic approaches, and the amenities that are available to you. For a personalized estimate for mental health treatment, dial (866)478-4383. Our admission counselors can help you understand the cost of residential care, and explore ways to pay out of pocket.

    How Many Times Will Health Insurance Pay For Mental Health Therapy?

    Insurance policies may have a set limit on therapy sessions for each calendar year. However, many providers allow additional coverage with prior authorization. Prior authorizations often require explanation for continued treatment, indicating that it is medically necessary. Long-term treatment is sometimes needed for complex mental health conditions.

    When you verify your insurance, you can inquire about visit limits, annual caps, and psychological interventions that are included in coverage. Mental health parity laws require that providers offer coverage for mental health conditions similar to what they would for medical health conditions. If you have questions or concerns about the coverage associated with your insurance, we encourage you to contact AMFM by dialing (866)478-4383.

    The first step to ensure that insurance covers the cost of psychotherapy is to verify your coverage. This allows you to learn about in-network providers as well as important details of your plan. Once you have this information, you can select a treatment provider that meets the necessary criteria.

    Once you have selected a treatment provider, you can obtain the required authorizations. You will be responsible for paying identified copay and deductibles. Your chosen treatment provider can help you verify your coverage and ensure that the necessary steps are completed before you begin treatment.

    Absolutely. Mental health treatment is available for those who do not have insurance. This route tends to have higher personal expenses. Because of this, many treatment providers offer financial assistance, including payment plans and sliding scale fees. These options can help make your out-of-pocket expenses more manageable.

    You may be able to access free or low-cost counseling services with local community health organizations, nonprofits, and government programs.

    • Approximately 23% of adults in the U.S. were living with a mental illness in 2022. This included anxiety disorders, major depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, binge-eating disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and schizophrenia spectrum disorder, respectively.
    • Research has indicated that about half of those who are living with a  mental health disorder began experiencing symptoms by age 14. Additionally, 75% of adults with a mental illness were experiencing symptoms by age 24.
    • The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) indicated shared that one in five adults experience a mental illness annually. One in twenty adults experience a  severe mental illness each year.
    • Mental health disorders are some of the  top causes for disability  within the United States. This includes major depression, manic depression, schizophrenia, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
    • About five percent of adults in the U.S. experience suicidal ideation. The observed rates for individuals who lost their lives to suicide in 2022 were the highest in U.S. history.

    Check if your health insurance will cover the cost of mental health treatment.