Cigna and Evernorth Psychiatrists in Colorado Springs, CO
![Photo of Deann Louise Lauer - Child, Adolescent, & Family Psychiatry, MS, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/453c0344-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Child, Adolescent, & Family Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80919
I provide early intervention and integrative approaches, such as communication with all providers, schools, and support teams. I design individualized treatment plans for a variety of mental health disorders. I primarily work with children, adolescents, and young adults. I encourage relationships within family systems, fostering opportunity for patients to be heard and to feel known within the context of their story.
I provide early intervention and integrative approaches, such as communication with all providers, schools, and support teams. I design individualized treatment plans for a variety of mental health disorders. I primarily work with children, adolescents, and young adults. I encourage relationships within family systems, fostering opportunity for patients to be heard and to feel known within the context of their story.
![Photo of Dr. Brandon Baker, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/309da7e0-b3e5-46c8-a316-081e80efc37e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Brandon Baker is a Psychiatrist in Colorado who has been practicing since 2018. He graduated from Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Baker believes every person does the best they can with the knowledge, tools, and perceptions they have available at the moment. He feels it is the job of those in mental health to help enlighten people and equip them to be their best selves.
Dr. Brandon Baker is a Psychiatrist in Colorado who has been practicing since 2018. He graduated from Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Baker believes every person does the best they can with the knowledge, tools, and perceptions they have available at the moment. He feels it is the job of those in mental health to help enlighten people and equip them to be their best selves.
![Photo of Christine M Khan - Springs Behavioral Health, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/552c7bde-06e0-45c0-b9d8-6316840d72a1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Springs Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80920
Christine Khan, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who graduated from California State University, Long Beach. Christine’s passion lies in working with children and their families in helping them achieve their goals and reach their maximum potential. She provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management with special attention to each person’s individual needs, including attention to personal history, concerns about, or fears of medications, all of which she approaches with patience, warmth, understanding, as well as helpful explanations that facilitate treatment.
Christine Khan, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who graduated from California State University, Long Beach. Christine’s passion lies in working with children and their families in helping them achieve their goals and reach their maximum potential. She provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management with special attention to each person’s individual needs, including attention to personal history, concerns about, or fears of medications, all of which she approaches with patience, warmth, understanding, as well as helpful explanations that facilitate treatment.
![Photo of Brian Watkins, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d4551e2-83fa-4e7f-aa99-e3f958addfe0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brian Watkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80919
Accepting new clients! I provide evaluations and medication management services for clients aged 15 and above. My practice covers a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety disorders, mood disorders (including Bipolar), sleep disorders, addictions, PTSD, and dysfunctional personality traits. In my practice, I have several areas of special interest. I specialize in helping clients gradually taper off benzodiazepines, tailoring the process to their individual comfort and needs. I also prioritize assisting individuals in managing insomnia primarily through therapy, aiming to minimize the reliance on medications.
Accepting new clients! I provide evaluations and medication management services for clients aged 15 and above. My practice covers a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety disorders, mood disorders (including Bipolar), sleep disorders, addictions, PTSD, and dysfunctional personality traits. In my practice, I have several areas of special interest. I specialize in helping clients gradually taper off benzodiazepines, tailoring the process to their individual comfort and needs. I also prioritize assisting individuals in managing insomnia primarily through therapy, aiming to minimize the reliance on medications.
![Photo of Jacob Wilson, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7666ccc-a7c2-47b4-b3d3-9032006fecea/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jacob Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80919
Do you feel like you're able to manage your symptoms as they arise or do you find more often than not, that your current symptoms are managing you several days? If you find that despite your best efforts, your symptoms are stagnant or getting worse, you are precisely the type of patient I would like to listen to and treat. I aim to meet each individual wherever they are in their current journey when they arrive in my office. I genuinely believe with the proper treatment plan and professional support, that everyone has an opportunity to thrive and if this is something you're seeking, I'd love the opportunity to be of service.
Do you feel like you're able to manage your symptoms as they arise or do you find more often than not, that your current symptoms are managing you several days? If you find that despite your best efforts, your symptoms are stagnant or getting worse, you are precisely the type of patient I would like to listen to and treat. I aim to meet each individual wherever they are in their current journey when they arrive in my office. I genuinely believe with the proper treatment plan and professional support, that everyone has an opportunity to thrive and if this is something you're seeking, I'd love the opportunity to be of service.
![Photo of Renae Wise, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f75e13a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Renae Wise
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80906
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with Bright Futures Psychiatry, exclusively offering telepsychiatry appointments within the state of Colorado. Whether it is while your infant is taking their afternoon nap or you're waking up with your morning coffee, my clients have the flexibility to meet with me in the setting that is most convenient or comfortable. Visits are completed utilizing a HIPPA secure video teleconferencing platform.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with Bright Futures Psychiatry, exclusively offering telepsychiatry appointments within the state of Colorado. Whether it is while your infant is taking their afternoon nap or you're waking up with your morning coffee, my clients have the flexibility to meet with me in the setting that is most convenient or comfortable. Visits are completed utilizing a HIPPA secure video teleconferencing platform.
![Photo of Naira Numanovic - Naira Numanovic - Avena Psychiatry, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/187c7b5a-c551-4cc1-aa6a-e6065e7d2dcc/3/320x400.jpeg)
Naira Numanovic - Avena Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80918
Accepting new clients! Appointments are typically available within 3 business days. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, my dedication is centered on supporting you through life's challenges and assisting you in realizing your utmost potential. I provide a secure environment where individuals can openly discuss their mental health concerns.
Accepting new clients! Appointments are typically available within 3 business days. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, my dedication is centered on supporting you through life's challenges and assisting you in realizing your utmost potential. I provide a secure environment where individuals can openly discuss their mental health concerns.
![Photo of Melissa Shulman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e82abc1-6e74-46de-86cc-c612de318307/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Shulman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80918 (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients! I believe mental health care should be an empowering experience. As your provider, we will work together to identify what is most important to you on your journey to building a rich and meaningful life. I provide holistic, trauma-informed care and medication management for a variety of mental health needs and specialize in treating anxiety, addictions, and mood disorders.
Accepting New Clients! I believe mental health care should be an empowering experience. As your provider, we will work together to identify what is most important to you on your journey to building a rich and meaningful life. I provide holistic, trauma-informed care and medication management for a variety of mental health needs and specialize in treating anxiety, addictions, and mood disorders.
![Photo of Thomas Kittelsen Physician, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38a64cac-65e1-49b9-8082-6f3560e637be/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kittelsen specializes in empowering highly intelligent, self-driven individuals. His ideal clients often excel in remote work environments, valuing the efficiency and convenience of virtual meetings. Sessions, typically lasting one hour, prioritize interactive engagement to ensure productivity. Dr. Kittelsen is deeply committed to helping clients navigate challenges like Adult ADHD, demonstrating a steadfast dedication to their personal growth and success.
Dr. Kittelsen specializes in empowering highly intelligent, self-driven individuals. His ideal clients often excel in remote work environments, valuing the efficiency and convenience of virtual meetings. Sessions, typically lasting one hour, prioritize interactive engagement to ensure productivity. Dr. Kittelsen is deeply committed to helping clients navigate challenges like Adult ADHD, demonstrating a steadfast dedication to their personal growth and success.
![Photo of Jessica Courtney, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69974302-44d5-4da5-b372-6213da9555b3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Courtney is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2020. She graduated from Colorado State University, Pueblo with Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatry. When you meet with Jessica, you'll meet with a caring provider who has an innate ability to help you feel at ease while overcoming fears regarding life changes and mental health concerns. She'll welcome you into a collaborative atmosphere, where she'll help you understand what is going on inside your body and how exactly the medication she may prescribe will affect it.
Jessica Courtney is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2020. She graduated from Colorado State University, Pueblo with Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatry. When you meet with Jessica, you'll meet with a caring provider who has an innate ability to help you feel at ease while overcoming fears regarding life changes and mental health concerns. She'll welcome you into a collaborative atmosphere, where she'll help you understand what is going on inside your body and how exactly the medication she may prescribe will affect it.
![Photo of Heather Shannon Ford, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e1777bc-697f-4352-bcd6-4431d88aa250/1/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Shannon Ford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80903 (Online Only)
With backgrounds in both conventional and alternative therapies, I love personalizing care to your individual mental health needs. Your symptoms are often rooted in a deeper cause (or causes) that require considering your mind, body, daily habits and relationships. I specialize in working with adults 18 and older who want to go beyond just 'a pill for every ill' worldview and incorporate lifestyle changes, hormone optimization and effective supplement regimes. Appointments Online -Lunch Time and After Work or After Class Options Available!
With backgrounds in both conventional and alternative therapies, I love personalizing care to your individual mental health needs. Your symptoms are often rooted in a deeper cause (or causes) that require considering your mind, body, daily habits and relationships. I specialize in working with adults 18 and older who want to go beyond just 'a pill for every ill' worldview and incorporate lifestyle changes, hormone optimization and effective supplement regimes. Appointments Online -Lunch Time and After Work or After Class Options Available!
15 Second Videos
Naira Numanovic - Avena Psychiatry
Heather Shannon Ford
Colorado Psychiatric
Ike Uzowulu
Angela Graham
Esther Okanlawon
Andrew Nagy
Colorado Psychiatric
Sandra Osborne
Psychiatric Services, LLC
Caitlin (Catie) deWit
Rick Loonam
James Anderson
Mary Beth Hutchinson
Dailyn Somoza Menendez
Carative Psychiatry
Joe Crowley
Rick Loonam
Meagan Holland
Rick Loonam
Kyle Brown
Lauren Hood
Sandra Osborne
Jill Moran
Naira Numanovic - Avena Psychiatry
Joe Crowley
Lauren Hood
Kristina Mordecai
Kristina Mordecai
Lauren Hood
Rick Loonam
Henry Fagnant
Chris Archer
Kyle Brown
Lorraine Victorian-Burks
Joseph Deak
Henry Fagnant
Henry Fagnant
Lauren Hood
Chris Archer
Joanna Westerfield - Denver Wellness Associates
Ivy Hoo
Jeanna Lee Dietz
Henry Fagnant
Hilary Helkenn
Kamleh Shaban
Sandra Osborne
Ivy Hoo
Richard Wallis
Kyle Brown
![Photo of Eileen Spangler - Colorado Psychiatric, PsychNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5145a0b4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
Colorado Psychiatric
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsychNP, BC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80918 (Online Only)
Although carefully chosen medications can quickly achieve much needed relief of anxiety, depression, insomnia and trauma symptoms, a thorough evaluation can also identify many opportunities for improvement without medications. The most effective treatment plan may include work-life balance, nutrition and sleep strategies, address, avoid or adapting to triggers, in addition to multiple psychotherapies. When needed, medications with the lowest side effects, easiest to use, most predictably effective & not addictive are recommended. Ultimately, it is up to each person to decide which strategies they will use to achieve wellness.
Although carefully chosen medications can quickly achieve much needed relief of anxiety, depression, insomnia and trauma symptoms, a thorough evaluation can also identify many opportunities for improvement without medications. The most effective treatment plan may include work-life balance, nutrition and sleep strategies, address, avoid or adapting to triggers, in addition to multiple psychotherapies. When needed, medications with the lowest side effects, easiest to use, most predictably effective & not addictive are recommended. Ultimately, it is up to each person to decide which strategies they will use to achieve wellness.
![Photo of Cynthia Allen, MSN, MSW, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67bb3455-f086-4c88-8b05-365b3bc0d96b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cynthia Allen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, MSW, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80917
Ready to feel better? My goal is to partner with you on your path to wellbeing, so that mental health issues no longer hold you back from living the life you want. I have worked successfully with those struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD and schizophrenia (among others). I will work with you to tailor a medication regimen that is effective and comfortable.
Ready to feel better? My goal is to partner with you on your path to wellbeing, so that mental health issues no longer hold you back from living the life you want. I have worked successfully with those struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD and schizophrenia (among others). I will work with you to tailor a medication regimen that is effective and comfortable.
![Photo of Kimberly Vialpando, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b1a06dfc-b4d1-407d-8139-064e20fae825/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Vialpando
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80918
Helping individuals who are seeking not just symptom relief, but a deeper, more holistic path to mental well-being. They may be dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, psychosis, or mood disorders, and are looking for guidance on how to manage their mental health in a way that integrates both traditional psychiatric medications and natural, functional approaches like supplements. This client values a personalized, compassionate approach and is open to exploring different avenues of treatment to find what works best for them. They want more than just a quick fix—they're striving for long-term stability.
Helping individuals who are seeking not just symptom relief, but a deeper, more holistic path to mental well-being. They may be dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, psychosis, or mood disorders, and are looking for guidance on how to manage their mental health in a way that integrates both traditional psychiatric medications and natural, functional approaches like supplements. This client values a personalized, compassionate approach and is open to exploring different avenues of treatment to find what works best for them. They want more than just a quick fix—they're striving for long-term stability.
![Photo of Alexis Adams, MSN, PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41b92008-2813-42fc-b0f7-40a47386b3fd/3/320x400.jpeg)
Alexis Adams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80920
I'm Alexis Adams, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner passionate about empowering individuals through their mental health journey. My educational background includes an MSN from Frontier Nursing University and a strong foundation in nursing and psychology from Colorado State University and the University of Colorado at Boulder. My clinical expertise spans various settings, including labor and delivery, neonatal intensive care, emergency care, and mental health. I pride myself on providing compassionate care to patients.
I'm Alexis Adams, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner passionate about empowering individuals through their mental health journey. My educational background includes an MSN from Frontier Nursing University and a strong foundation in nursing and psychology from Colorado State University and the University of Colorado at Boulder. My clinical expertise spans various settings, including labor and delivery, neonatal intensive care, emergency care, and mental health. I pride myself on providing compassionate care to patients.
![Photo of Ike Uzowulu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8df25e5a-4d39-4412-b092-ee74aa23972a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ike Uzowulu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80917 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders such as; mood disorders including resistant depression, eating disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia, stress and sleep related disorders.
I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders such as; mood disorders including resistant depression, eating disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia, stress and sleep related disorders.
![Photo of Angela Graham, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e706481e-2265-4e44-a77d-1f103db6606b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Angela Graham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80904 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and the founder of authentic mental health, PLLC. I am a compassionate, down-to-earth provider, who is dedicated to helping individuals manage their mental and emotional well-being while creating healthy, fulfilling lives. I specialize in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of mental health conditions within a safe and supportive environment where clients feel comfortable sharing their concerns and working towards their mental health goals. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance and involving clients in their own treatment plans.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and the founder of authentic mental health, PLLC. I am a compassionate, down-to-earth provider, who is dedicated to helping individuals manage their mental and emotional well-being while creating healthy, fulfilling lives. I specialize in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of mental health conditions within a safe and supportive environment where clients feel comfortable sharing their concerns and working towards their mental health goals. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance and involving clients in their own treatment plans.
![Photo of Ryann Charisse Lee, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2cc3b088-54ed-43fa-b599-793b69c62afa/1/320x400.png)
Ryann Charisse Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80909 (Online Only)
As we navigate through life's challenges we can find ourselves in unfamiliar and uncomfortable places. Whether we are adjusting to a new routine, family dynamics, or experiencing symptoms that we can't verbalize... During this vulnerable time we all need understanding, clarity, and most importantly support. I say "we" because we all have been there. It is my hope that I can provide a safe space to assist in conceptualizing your experience and help you to realize your wellness goals.
As we navigate through life's challenges we can find ourselves in unfamiliar and uncomfortable places. Whether we are adjusting to a new routine, family dynamics, or experiencing symptoms that we can't verbalize... During this vulnerable time we all need understanding, clarity, and most importantly support. I say "we" because we all have been there. It is my hope that I can provide a safe space to assist in conceptualizing your experience and help you to realize your wellness goals.
![Photo of Lori Mattingly - Calming Waters Psychiatry, DNP, PMHNP, AGPCNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f5532ad-00d0-40d8-93c5-3f9515414834/1/320x400.jpeg)
Calming Waters Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80919
Calming Waters Psychiatry welcomes clients 18 years and older (65+)! Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Eating disorders, Insomnia, Medication Management, OCD, Personality Disorders, PTSD, and Suicidal Ideations are evaluated and treated while optimizing patient safety. I follow the principles of shared decision-making and patient-centered care, holding the belief that patients should be actively involved in their care to optimize mental health outcomes. Strengthening a person's mental health and emotional well-being with a focus on improving quality of life measures are essential goals at Calming Waters Psychiatry.
Calming Waters Psychiatry welcomes clients 18 years and older (65+)! Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Eating disorders, Insomnia, Medication Management, OCD, Personality Disorders, PTSD, and Suicidal Ideations are evaluated and treated while optimizing patient safety. I follow the principles of shared decision-making and patient-centered care, holding the belief that patients should be actively involved in their care to optimize mental health outcomes. Strengthening a person's mental health and emotional well-being with a focus on improving quality of life measures are essential goals at Calming Waters Psychiatry.
![Photo of Vivian Palacios Jones, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7eb52501-95d7-455f-a0f4-fa0be8718dbf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Vivian Palacios Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80905
Book with me now by clicking my website. I am dual licensed as a Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. I provide telehealth services via video to clients in Colorado, New York, and Arizona. I am interested in providing comprehensive and compassionate mental health care for adults.
Book with me now by clicking my website. I am dual licensed as a Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. I provide telehealth services via video to clients in Colorado, New York, and Arizona. I am interested in providing comprehensive and compassionate mental health care for adults.
See more therapy options for Colorado Springs
Nearby Cigna and Evernorth Psychiatrists Searches for Colorado Springs
See More Cigna and Evernorth PsychiatristsNearby Searches for Colorado Springs
See More PsychiatristsCigna and Evernorth Psychiatrists
Does insurance cover therapy, prescriptions and other behavioral health services?
In general, yes. Laws in the U.S. require insurers to cover essential behavioral health care at the same level as other health care services. Most health plans require a medical diagnosis and treatments that are evidence based and medically essential. This means that life coaching and alternative therapies are not covered, nor is therapy without a diagnosis. Call the number on the back or your insurance card or visit your insurance company's website to review your Summary of Benefits. If you have insurance through your employer, your Human Resources department may also be able to answer questions.
How much does therapy cost with insurance?
The cost of therapy depends on your region, how much training and experience your therapist has, and the type of treatment. The rate for talk therapy generally falls between $100 and $250. For a client seeing an in-network provider, the cost of therapy is often similar to the cost of other health care services. Clients pay co-pays and may need to satisfy a plan’s deductible before benefits kick in.
What is the difference between In-Network and Out-of-Network insurance coverage?
An in-network provider has contracted with an insurer to get paid directly for services, and to accept the insurer’s rate of compensation. Clients are responsible for deductibles and copays. If a therapist is out of network, that means that the client pays the therapist directly for services at the therapist’s regular fee. Out-of-Network providers often give clients a receipt so that they can file for partial reimbursement with their insurance company.
Is it difficult to find an In-Network therapist?
It is not unusual for therapists to limit the number of insurance patients in their practice, so it’s important to check in-network availability when you schedule your first appointment. In regions and times where therapy is in high demand it may take longer to get scheduled with an in-network therapist.
What is the difference between HMO and PPO insurance plans?
HMO health plans only cover in-network services, there is no reimbursement for out-of-network providers. PPO plans often cover both in- and out-of-network services, though the client may pay more for out-of-network services.
What is a Superbill?
A superbill is a receipt for therapy services. It provides all the information required by insurance companies to reimburse you for out-of-network services, including the diagnostic codes for your care, the amount paid, and the dates and duration of care.
Does insurance cover Online therapy?
Many therapists who shifted their practice to online therapy during the pandemic have kept that arrangement. And most insurers continue to cover telehealth services, with a few exceptions. Preventive care (such as an annual depression screening) is often required to be in-person to be covered, and some states require prescribers of controlled substances to see those patients in person.
Does insurance cover Group therapy?
Many insurance plans provide coverage for group therapy provided there is a medical diagnosis for group members, but there are some noteworthy exceptions. For example, Medicare does not always cover group therapy. Group therapy tends to cost less than individual therapy.
Does insurance cover Couples therapy?
Most insurance companies do not cover the cost of couples therapy because there is no medical diagnosis or medically necessary treatment. However, a few plans will offer a limited benefit, so it is still worth checking with your insurance company. Sometimes therapy is covered for a couple when one person has a diagnosis and another family member joins them for joint therapy, but it is considered therapy for the medical condition that includes a family member as a listener or helper, not couples counseling. Without insurance, most clients pay between $100-300 per 60-90 min session for couples therapy. Often clients can find classes or workshops that make it more affordable to work on their relationship. And some employers offer Employee Assistance Plans that help defray the cost of couples therapy.
What is an Employee Assistance Plan (EAP)?
Employee Assistance Plans are purchased by employers for the benefit of their employees. EAPs typically assist employees with referrals and may also provide the first few sessions of therapy free of charge, with the patient's regular health insurance kicking in after those initial sessions. EAP benefits often apply to all types of therapy without the need for a medical diagnosis, making it easier to access couples therapy, therapy for life transitions, and other non-medical counseling. Just as with standard health insurance, clients should always check that a provider accepts their EAP benefits before scheduling.
Learn more about Insurance Coverage and Finding Affordable Therapy
Learn more about Insurance Coverage and Finding Affordable Therapy