Is Therapy Covered by Insurance? Here’s What You Need to Know

So, you’ve decided you might want to start therapy (yay you!)—but then the next thought hits: 

Wait. Is therapy covered by insurance? And how do I even find out?

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone. Navigating insurance for therapy can feel like a full-time job. 

There are benefits to verify, networks to figure out, and so many words like “deductible” and “co-pay” that your brain might just want to take a nap instead.

But take a breath—we’re going to break it down together. 

Whether you’re brand new to therapy, switching therapists, or finally ready to use those benefits you’ve been paying for, here’s how to figure out if your therapy is covered by insurance and what you need to know to make it as easy as possible.

How to see if therapy is covered by insurance?

First things first: don’t assume therapy isn’t covered until you check. More and more insurance plans do offer mental health benefits—and you deserve to use them!

Here’s a simple step-by-step on how to see if therapy is covered by insurance:

1. Call the number on the back of your insurance card. There’s usually a “Member Services” or “Behavioral Health” phone number. Yes, it’s okay to call and say, “Hi, can you help me understand if therapy is covered by insurance on my plan?”

    

2. Ask the right questions. Here’s your cheat sheet:

    

• Is therapy covered by insurance on my current plan?

   

• Do I have a deductible I need to meet first?

   

• What is my co-pay or coinsurance for therapy sessions?

   

• Is there a limit on how many sessions are covered per year?

   

• Do I need pre-authorization before starting therapy?

   

• Is there a specific network of therapists I need to choose from?

   

3. Check if your therapist is in-network. This matters because if they are, your sessions are usually more affordable. If they’re out-of-network, you may still have some coverage, but you might pay more upfront.

    

4. Ask about telehealth benefits. Many insurance plans now cover virtual therapy sessions, which can make it even easier to get the help you need from the comfort of your couch.

    

5. Talk to your therapist’s office. Many therapy practices (like ours!) can also help you verify your benefits or even submit claims on your behalf. Don’t be shy about asking for help—we deal with insurance all the time, and we know it can be confusing!

    

At Southlake Counseling, we’re proud to accept Aetna, we’re a CPP State Health Plan Provider, and we’re part of the Clear Pricing Project Provider network. If you’re wondering whether your therapy will be covered, we’re happy to walk you through your benefits and make the process as smooth as possible.

Because finding a therapist should feel like self-care—not like a second job.

Does insurance cover therapy 100%?

The dream, right?

In some cases, yes, therapy can be covered 100%—but it depends on your specific insurance plan.

Here’s the honest truth: even if your plan includes therapy covered by insurance, it’s rare for every single aspect to be totally free. Usually, there’s some combination of:

• Deductibles: The amount you have to pay out-of-pocket each year before your insurance starts covering services.

   

• Co-pays: A flat fee you pay for each therapy session (like $20, $30, or $50 depending on your plan).

   

• Coinsurance: Instead of a flat fee, you might pay a percentage of the session cost (like 20%).

   

Some plans—especially great employer-sponsored plans or certain state plans—might cover therapy at 100% once you meet your deductible or if you see an in-network provider.

If you’re covered under North Carolina’s State Health Plan through the Clear Pricing Project, for example, you have better access to therapy covered by insurance with lower out-of-pocket costs when you use a provider like Southlake Counseling.

(See how that all connects?)

The bottom line: therapy might not be totally free, but it can be a lot more affordable with insurance—and it’s 100% worth checking.

Quick Tips to Make the Most of Your Mental Health Benefits

Since you’re here and probably serious about finding support, here’s a little extra advice to help you maximize your coverage:

• Use your benefits early. Don’t wait until you’re completely overwhelmed. Mental health is healthcare—use it proactively!

   

• Know your coverage year. Most plans reset annually (often in January). If you’ve met your deductible for the year, it might be a great time to get therapy started while your out-of-pocket costs are lower.

   

• Save copies of everything. Explanation of benefits (EOBs), receipts, claim forms—keep them handy just in case.

   

• Ask your provider about superbills. If your therapist is out-of-network but you have coverage, you might be able to submit a superbill (a fancy receipt) for reimbursement.

   

• Stay curious. If you hit a confusing moment (like a weird insurance denial), don’t panic. Call your provider’s office or your insurance company. They deal with this stuff daily and can often explain it quickly.

   

Remember: asking for help understanding your insurance isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s a sign that you’re advocating for your mental health—and that’s one of the most powerful things you can do.

Final Thoughts: You Deserve Access to Care Without the Guesswork

Trying to figure out if your therapy is covered by insurance shouldn’t be more stressful than your actual therapy session.

We get it. 

That’s why at Southlake Counseling, we’re committed to making the process as simple and transparent as possible. 

We accept Aetna insurance, we’re proud to be a CPP State Health Plan Provider, and we’re part of the Clear Pricing Project Provider network—so if you’re covered by these plans, your access to therapy just got a whole lot easier.

At the end of the day, investing in your mental health is one of the best investments you’ll ever make. And if you can use your insurance to help you get there? Even better.

If you’re ready to start but still have questions, we’re here. Let’s make mental health support feel accessible, approachable, and (dare we say it?) actually kind of easy.

You’re worth it—coverage, support, and all.