In order for us to set realistic treatment goals and priorities, it is important to evaluate what resources you have available to pay for your treatment. If you have a supplemental health insurance policy, it may provide some coverage for mental health treatment. However, you, not your insurance company, are responsible for the full payment of fees. It is very important that you understand what services are covered under your mental health benefits.
If you have any questions about whether a service will be covered, you should contact your insurance company before the service is provided. This phone number is usually located on your insurance card. We will provide you with whatever information we can and will call the company on your behalf to clear up any confusion, if necessary. We can also submit for reimbursement on your behalf with some insurance providers. This can be discussed at your initial appointment.
Helpful Questions to Ask your Health Insurance Provider:
- Do I have outpatient mental health benefits?
- What type of professional is covered under my plan? (Psychologist verse Registered Counselling Therapist)
- What is my maximum coverage amount per year for counselling services before it renews?
- Are counselling services grouped with other paramedical services (e.g., physiotherapy, chiropractic, message, etc.)
- What is the coverage amount per therapy/treatment session?
- Do I have a copay each visit?
- How many sessions per calendar year does my plan cover?
- When does my coverage renew?
- Am I required to have a referral from a physician for counselling coverage?
- Who in my family is covered for counselling and what amounts?
- If I want to work on a relationship (e.g., marriage counselling or family therapy), will my insurance cover these services?