You’re familiar with the physical health benefits your insurance provides, but you may not be familiar with your mental health benefits. These benefits address a range of mental and behavioral health challenges and are available in several ways.
Therapy and counseling
See a licensed therapist or counselor to discuss work, family, or personal stressors, past or present trauma, and other challenges. You can seek therapy for a specific issue for a limited number of sessions or maintain an ongoing relationship as part of long-term self-care.
For more information about counseling options, see General Counseling Services.
Group support
Join a support group for a specific health or wellness concern. Group sessions can address grief, substance use, anger management, and other issues where peer support and a facilitator can help.
Medication
If you need prescription medication for anxiety, depression, or another condition, consult your physician or a psychiatrist. Most plans include prescription medication coverage through the pharmacy benefit.
Screenings
Receive an alcohol misuse or depression screening as part of routine care to help you decide if you need additional treatment. Screenings can guide timely referrals to counseling, therapy, or other services.
Alcohol misuse or substance use
If you have concerns about alcohol misuse or substance use, insurance often covers detox, rehabilitation, and follow-up individual or group therapy sessions as part of treatment plans.
Inpatient services
Sometimes you need the more intensive treatment an inpatient behavioral stay provides. Use your insurance benefits to pay for a stay in an approved inpatient program when medically necessary.
Learn more about inpatient and crisis care options at Crisis Intervention/Mental Health Insurance.
Excluded diagnoses
Some plans exclude certain physical, mental, or behavioral diagnoses. Review your policy so you understand any exclusions and the out-of-pocket costs you may owe if you pursue treatment.
Understand parity protection
Many insurance policies include parity protection, which means you typically should not pay more for mental health treatment than for other medical care. Use the benefit if you need it.
For general coverage details and state variations, see Mental Health Insurance.
Check your policy for coverage details
Most health plans provide mental, behavioral, and substance use benefits, but specific coverage and limits depend on your policy and state rules.
- Covered services
- In‑network providers
- Counseling session annual or lifetime limits
- Co‑pays for services
- Deductible
- Pre-authorization requirements
- How claims are paid
If you have questions about your coverage, read your policy carefully. You can also talk to your human resources professional or talk to an agent to clarify anything you don’t understand.
The mental health benefits included in your health insurance can help you manage mental and behavioral health challenges. Understand how to use your coverage as you get and stay healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find an in-network therapist?
Check your plan’s provider directory or call the insurer for a list of in-network mental health providers covered under your policy.
Will my therapy sessions always require a copay?
Copays depend on your specific plan, the type of provider, and whether the provider is in-network; review your benefits or contact your insurer to confirm.
What is parity protection and how does it help me?
Parity protection generally prevents higher cost-sharing or stricter limits for mental health care than for medical care, making treatment more accessible under your plan.
Does insurance cover substance use treatment?
Many plans cover a range of substance use treatments, including detox, rehab, and counseling, but coverage varies by plan and state rules.