Do you accept tricare?

Would I be able to reach out to the counselor when I feel like I need to talk to someone and then be charged accordingly? I would prefer to talk to a counselor whenever something comes up. Automatically paying $260/mo is a lot if I don't use the service.
Asked by Akan
Answered
10/12/2020

Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers across the nation, like Cigna, Aetna, and BCBS. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with certain insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and availability. When sessions are covered, members typically pay an average copay of about $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site. Coverage varies by state and provider availability.

BetterHelp does not currently accept TRICARE, but we are continuing to work with insurance carriers to expand coverage across the United States. Check our insurance page for the latest updates on accepted plans and information on insurance coverage.

You can also reach out to the BetterHelp Support team through customer service if you have further questions. Additionally, therapists are not typically involved in billing, so the Support team will be best equipped to answer billing-related questions accurately

BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, with costs based on your location, referral source, preferences, any applicable discounts, and therapist availability. Financial aid options may also be available — reach out to the Support team to learn more. If you are matched with a therapist who doesn't meet your needs, you can request to be matched with a different provider who may be a better fit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does BetterHelp take insurance?

Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with certain insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and availability. When sessions are covered, members who have a copay typically pay an average of about $23 per session.

What insurance plans are accepted on BetterHelp?

Many independent providers on BetterHelp accept insurance from major carriers, including Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, and several state-specific Blue Cross Blue Shield plans such as Anthem, CareFirst, and Highmark. Coverage varies by state and by provider availability. Don't see your insurance plan? BetterHelp is working with major insurance carriers across the United States to expand coverage. Until then, our flexible subscription model continues to be an option to receive quality care from our extensive therapist network, with subscriptions around $70–$100/week.*

*Subscription pricing is based on factors such as your location, referral source, preferences, therapist availability, and any applicable discounts or promotions.

Does TRICARE cover telehealth therapy? 

TRICARE does cover telehealth therapy for many beneficiaries, depending on your specific plan. TRICARE Prime, TRICARE Select, and TRICARE For Life each have different telehealth benefits, so coverage can vary. In general, TRICARE covers telehealth services when provided by a TRICARE-authorized provider, which may include licensed therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists. Contact TRICARE directly to learn more about your telehealth benefits and find an in-network provider.

Does BetterHelp accept TRICARE?

BetterHelp does not currently accept TRICARE. We are continuing to work with insurance carriers to expand coverage across the United States. Check our insurance page for the latest updates on accepted plans, or explore our flexible subscription model as an alternative, with subscriptions around $70–$100/week.*

*Subscription pricing is based on factors such as your location, referral source, preferences, therapist availability, and any applicable discounts or promotions.

What types of therapy are typically covered by insurance?

Insurance often covers individual therapy, family and couples counseling (when deemed medically necessary), psychiatric services including medication management, and online therapy options. Please note that providers on BetterHelp do not prescribe medications.

Contact your insurance provider directly using the number on your insurance card, check online member portals, or ask your therapist to verify your coverage to learn more.

What costs should I expect when using insurance for therapy?

You may have copays, coinsurance, deductibles, and other out-of-pocket expenses depending on your plan. Reviewing your insurance coverage can help you understand these costs.

If insurance doesn't fully cover therapy costs, options may include:

  • Using health savings accounts (HSA) or flexible spending accounts (FSA)
  • Seeking providers who offer sliding scale fees or payment plans
  • Exploring community mental health resources
  • Checking with your employer to see if they offer an EAP that provides free or low-cost therapy sessions to employees and their families

How can I find out if my insurance covers therapy?

Start by calling the customer service number on the back of your insurance card. Provide your policy details and ask specific questions about your mental health benefits, including coverage for therapy sessions, copays, session limits, and whether your preferred therapist is an in-network provider.

You can also ask your therapist or their office to verify your insurance coverage before beginning treatment. Many insurance companies offer online member portals where you can check your coverage details and find in-network therapists.

Is online therapy covered the same as in-person therapy?

Yes, many insurance plans cover online therapy (telehealth) at the same level as in-person therapy sessions. Under federal laws like the Affordable Care Act and the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act, insurance companies are required to provide comparable coverage for mental health care delivered via telehealth. Coverage applies when services are provided by licensed therapists or providers.