Is there anyway to get help to pay because I can't afford it I need the assistance for myself and p

Hi Angel: I'm very sorry to hear that you are struggling to that degree right now. 

There are a couple of pieces to your question, which I can speak to.

To the issue of lack of insurance and ability to pay: BetterHelp does have payment arrangements available, but therapists are not involved in that process; those would be questions to discuss with member services.  Those arrangements are worked out with individuals on a case-by-case basis.  You can contact BetterHelp customer service for more information about and to discuss options you may have for therapy here at the following phone no. and email address:

• Email us – contact@betterhelp.com
• Call us – 888-688-9296

In addition to offering financial aid, BetterHelp now works with major insurance providers—and is continuing to expand its coverage. With insurance, members pay an average copay of $23 per session. Coverage varies by state, therapist availability, and plan. You can consult with your insurance provider to find out whether mental health services are covered through your policy.

Regarding your need for a formal assessment, it may be best for you to be seen in-person for something that consequential. 

Probation officers are generally able to provide for those if they are court-mandated. I would strongly suggest you talk to that person about your needs in this regard.  

The state of WI Dept. of Health Services does have information available online for individuals seeking assistance with addiction.  You can call 211 or 833-944-4673, or text your zip code to 898211. There is also a website at AddictionHelpWI.org where you can find additional resources, including treatment. Again, your probation officer may also be a good resource for treatment options. In addition, the State of WI Division of Vocational Rehabilitation can provide various services to help you work, if that is a need, including assessment and treatment. 

It is important to maintain hope, and I'm very glad to see that you are reaching out and are committed to moving forward in your life; that commitment is critical to having the motivation to be able to do so. Don't give up hope and keep trying! There is a solution for every problem and I wish you all the best in finding what you need very soon!

Best, Gillian

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 $19 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 provide affordable therapy through insurance. 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 that might apply.

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, there are options that 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 EAPs that provide free or low-cost therapy sessions to employees and their families

How can I find out if my insurance covers therapy?

To find out if your 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
• 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. Additionally, 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.