Are my sessions really confidential?

Absolutely, but make sure you sign a privacy document related to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA.) This ensures your Protected Health Information (PHI) is properly safeguarded.

Also you can further to restrict access to your PHI with a written specific request to your therapist. Remember that the therapist must grant your request for the information privacy agreement to be valid.

How do I find out if counseling is covered on my insurance?

Call the customer service number and ask about your outpatient mental health benefits (or look at your plan benefits online through your insurance company.)

What is typical insurance coverage?

Most plans will cover a portion of a certain number of visits per year. For example, a $25 co-pay for up to 25 sessions per year. PPO plans will offer increased coverage for in-network providers.

Know that if your plan covers 50%, it is 50% of the contracted rate, not the billed rate. Some plans require pre-authorization. The client can request it directly, or the therapist can contact the insurance company on the client's behalf.