In-Network. Out of Network. Copays. Co-Insurance. Out of pocket. Reimbursement. Deductibles.

As therapists, we have been doing this for years, and we still get tongue-tied abc.

Once you understand the concepts and definitions, you may find you can afford premium healthcare. One of the biggest hurdles is understanding your mental health benefits. Not all health care plans are the same. Different plans allow for different coverage. Some plans do not cover mental health services, but most do. Before you start therapy, it is important that you understand the costs so that paying does not hinder your ability to attend regularly (keep that momentum going!). You can find information about your particular benefits by signing into your insurance carriers website, calling the member hotline (found on the back of your card), or contacting your HR Department. Click here for questions to ask. You also need to verify if your mental health coverage includes out-of-network benefits, or if your coverage limited to only in-network coverage.

If your plan does not cover mental health services, then you will need to pay for therapy out of pocket. If your health care plan allows for only in-network therapy, your therapist will need to accept your insurance or you can choose to pay out of pocket. Verify with your therapist if they are an in-network or out-of-network provider.