By Geno McGahee
There has been a battle going on for a long time over health insurance covering mental health therapy sessions and the insurance companies have tended to avoid paying. This has led to many that want to seek therapy not getting it and facing the stress, depression and anxiety they may have alone, despite the fact that they pay for health insurance.
So, does insurance cover therapy has become the question that so many have posed and the results have been mixed. There is hope for those that were refused by their insurance companies. Insurance companies have come forward and have offered mental health insurance, specializing in that field and making it affordable for those that want to speak to a therapist about their current situations and feelings.
The good news for society as a whole is that mental health has become something that everyone has become more comfortable addressing and discussing. This open discussion has led to a re-evaluation by the medical insurance companies and some have come around and have now added mental health appointments to their coverage. The willingness of those to freely discuss their emotions has saved lives and has given many different methods to live happier and more productive lives.
A common problem with many seeking mental health therapy but not doing so is the assumption that their health care provider will not cover it. Because of this, they do not make the call to make the appointment, but there are various insurance companies that do, in fact, cover such treatments.
For some, knowing what questions to ask can prove an obstacle. The runaround can happen and frustration can arise on the phone where the agenda of the health insurance representative may not always be to be as helpful as they can.
Some questions to ask when speaking to a health insurance provider are:
Do you cover therapy?
This is the first question that should be asked when inquiring about therapy. The direct question can settle the matter and can be the beginning of the journey.
Can I pick my own therapist?
Being comfortable is essential with therapy and being able to select the therapist that you feel comfortable working with is essential. Some health insurance providers may insist on a therapist of their choosing.
Is there a co-pay or deductible to meet?
There are often hidden fees or payments to meet in order to receive and continue to receive therapy. This is a question that must be asked.
Health insurance covering therapy is a battle that will continue but it is going in the right direction with the eventuality being full coverage for it.
