Online therapy has revolutionized the mental health landscape for many clients. Flexible program options make it easier for you to prioritize your mental health care, even with a busy schedule. You can talk to your therapist from the comfort of your home or on the go and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re getting the same level of evidence-based treatment as you would in person. 

At the same time, insurance companies have played a big role in making virtual sessions more accessible. Lightfully offers virtual mental health treatment for clients across California. Read on to learn how your health insurance can help make it easier for you to access this type of mental health care and how to find out what your plan covers.

5 ways insurance companies support virtual mental health care

One of the primary barriers to online therapy is cost, but insurance companies help make it more affordable through different plan options. If you could benefit from online therapy, it’s worth reviewing your plan to see if you’re eligible for this type of coverage. Here are some of the ways insurers help make virtual therapy more cost effective for clients:

1. They lower out-of-pocket costs for mental health care.

The amount of coverage for virtual therapy differs depending on the type of plan you have. But even if you still owe out-of-pocket costs, like copays and deductibles, your overall financial responsibility is typically lower with insurance than it would be without it. 

2. They partner with providers to offer in-network coverage.

Insurance companies often partner with a network of mental health professionals (just like they do with other doctors). These are your “in-network” providers. Seeing these mental health providers can help lower your out-of-pocket costs even further. But even if your preferred therapist isn’t in their network, your plan may still help you save by paying a certain amount for out-of-network mental health care services.

3. They cover several therapy sessions per year.

Each insurance plan comes with specific rules and limitations, but yours might cover several sessions per year. Some major insurance companies even allow an unlimited number of therapy sessions under certain plans.

4. Their coverage may include additional online services.

Technology has opened the door to several types of therapy, and insurance companies have taken that into consideration. Many plans cover individual, group or family therapy, as well as live video, audio, and chat or ongoing messaging. Your preferred provider may not offer every type available, but your insurance may have a broad range of coverage options in case you need them in the future.

5. Some plans include a health savings account (HSA).

If you have an eligible high-deductible health plan (HDHP), don’t forget to use your health savings account (HSA). This tax-advantaged plan helps you pay for qualified medical expenses, including virtual therapy. HSA cards can be used just like regular credit or debit cards, allowing you to make online payments in your provider’s account portal.

How to find out if your insurance covers virtual therapy

Since every health plan works a little differently, it’s a good idea to find out if your insurance covers online therapy before scheduling an appointment with your provider. This step can help you prepare ahead of time financially. Simply check out your plan’s coverage details, which you can do using the following methods:

• Review your insurance account — If you have an online account, log in and review your plan’s mental health coverage options.
• Call your insurance provider — You can call your insurance company and ask them to break down your mental health benefits for you over the phone.
• Ask your HR representative — An HR rep at your place of employment should also know if your employer-sponsored plan offers virtual therapy coverage.

Also, don’t forget to reach out to your therapist. They can tell you if they accept your insurance and if they’re considered an in-network provider.

Find out if virtual therapy is right for you

Virtual therapy providers that take insurance offer a convenient option for people who need greater access to the mental health professionals they trust. If you’re interested in scheduling online therapy, discuss it with your therapist. They can help you figure out when it would be beneficial, either now or at another point in your mental health journey.

At Lightfully, we offer comprehensive mental health programs that support our clients’ unique needs. This includes a Virtual Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP). Everything we do consists of evidence-based, whole-person-centered treatment. Whether your treatment is online or in person, you can rest assured that you’re receiving the same level of compassionate, personalized care.

Change starts at your pace, in your space. Connect with our Admissions Concierge Team to get started with virtual treatment.