Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a commonly used form of talk therapy. This evidence-based therapeutic approach can help people approach problems in new ways, change unwanted behaviors, and manage the symptoms of mental health conditions.
Health insurance often covers some or all costs associated with mental health treatment. But does insurance cover CBT?
This article will explore how CBT works and how to determine insurance coverage for it. You will learn:
- How CBT works and what to expect from therapy
- If insurance typically covers CBT
- How to determine if your insurance will cover cognitive behavioral therapy
- Where to find comprehensive mental health treatment
If you or someone you love lives with a mental health condition and needs treatment, you are not alone. Find the treatment, support, and resources you need at Renewed Light Mental Health. Contact our treatment specialists to learn about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)?
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of talk therapy. This form of therapy relies on several core principles, including:
- Learned patterns of destructive behaviors may result in mental health problems
- People with mental health conditions can reduce symptoms by developing more effective coping skills
- Mental health problems stem from faulty or destructive thought patterns
Cognitive behavioral therapy can be effective at helping people manage a wide range of symptoms or conditions, including:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Eating disorders
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Substance use disorder (SUD)
- Relationship problems
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
CBT can help people recognize the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. This type of therapy can help people identify and change negative thought patterns. This may result in long-lasting behavioral changes.
During therapy sessions, people work with a mental health professional. People may work with a therapist one-on-one or in a group setting. CBT is common in mental health and substance use disorder treatment programs. Family members may also benefit from learning CBT skills to better support a loved one with mental health challenges.
During sessions, people learn new strategies, including:
- Learning to confront fears rather than avoid them
- Developing effective calming strategies
- Using role-playing to “rehearse” conflicts or other challenging interactions
People learn to recognize thought distortions and think about their thoughts in new ways. CBT can help people understand their own behaviors and the behaviors of others in new ways. Over time, people may develop more confidence in their ability to navigate challenges.
Does Insurance Pay For Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) is a federal law passed in 2010. This law requires insurance companies to provide coverage for mental health services, including medications, psychotherapy, inpatient and outpatient treatment programs, and more.
Generally, insurance companies do cover mental health therapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy. However, plans cover mental health treatment differently. It is critical to explore the details of your insurance plan to determine what services, programs, and providers it covers.
Insurance companies may require policyholders to prove that a treatment is medically necessary before covering it. You may be required to have a mental health evaluation before your insurance company will cover CBT or other mental health treatments.
A mental health evaluation may include:
- Cognitive testing
- Personality assessments
- Interviews, including questions about your symptoms, family history, history of mental health treatment, and more
- Physical examination
- Diagnostic testing
A mental health evaluation will determine what treatments are necessary to address your symptoms. It will allow your treatment team to provide tailored care.
Contact the Renewed Light Mental Health specialists to find a mental health evaluation, treatment, or other resources.
How to Determine if CBT is Covered by Insurance
Insurance plans can vary quite a bit. Even plans from the same insurance company may cover different programs, services, and providers.
It is critical to check the details of your specific insurance plan before seeking treatment. This will help you avoid unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.
There are several ways to explore the details of your insurance plan. You may:
- Call the number on the back of your insurance card to consult a representative about covered services, programs, or providers
- Research the details of your plan by searching your insurance company’s website
- Ask for in-network referrals from your medical or mental health provider
- Call local treatment options to ask about the insurance companies they work with
- Receive assistance from the insurance specialists at Renewed Light Mental Health
If you are experiencing severe mental health symptoms, including psychosis, suicidal thoughts, or worsening symptoms of any kind, seek emergency treatment. Call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room right away.
If you need assistance verifying your insurance details, contact the Renewed Light Mental Health specialists. Our intake specialists are happy to help you navigate insurance and find the treatment you need.
Find Mental Health Treatment
Contact the Renewed Light Mental Health specialists to learn more about behavioral therapy and other evidence-based therapies. Explore our mental health programs or schedule an intake appointment by reaching out today.
References:
- American Psychological Association (APA): What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?