Best Insurance for Mental Health
UnitedHealthcare offers the best insurance for mental health care because of its strong focus on member resources and many in-network therapists.
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The health insurance you get from your employer, state health exchange or Medicare will cover mental health services. But some companies offer better coverage, stronger customer satisfaction and more extra benefits than others.
The best health insurance for mental health services will depend on your unique needs and situation.
Best overall individual mental health insurance: UnitedHealthcare
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Best network of mental health professionals: Blue Cross Blue Shield
Best for customer service: Kaiser Permanente
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How to get the best insurance for mental health
When shopping for a health insurance plan with mental health services, it's a good idea to make sure you choose a plan that best fits your needs.
Check your plan's network and coverage. If you're already seeing a mental health professional, it's important to make sure they're included in your new plan's coverage. Otherwise, you may need to switch to a different mental health professional or pay out of pocket to continue seeing your existing therapist.
If you don't have a therapist, it's a good idea to check that your plan has good coverage in your area. Many therapists have long waiting lists, and many psychiatrists and psychologists don't accept insurance at all. The larger your local network, the faster you'll get an appointment.
Calculate your total costs. It's important to tally up the cost of your monthly rate, called a premium, and weigh it against the other costs you'll pay, such as your deductible, copays and coinsurance.
Look at any extra benefits, such as telehealth services and other app-based services. It's become increasingly common for large insurance companies to offer telehealth services and apps designed to help you manage your mental health.
However, the quality and level of service can differ depending on the company you choose. Compare plans based on user reviews to find the one that best suits your needs.
Other options for accessing mental or behavioral health care
Take advantage of these affordable mental health services if you don't have access to traditional insurance or your insurance doesn't cover the services you need.
Frequently asked questions
What's the best insurance for mental health services?
UnitedHealthcare offers the best insurance for mental health services. Blue Cross Blue Shield has the largest network of mental health professionals, and Kaiser Permanente offers the best customer service.
What insurance covers mental health therapy?
All regular insurance plans have to cover mental health services. That's because mental health therapy is considered an essential service.
Is an HMO or a PPO better for therapy?
A PPO (preferred provider organization) is better for therapy because you'll have access to more mental health professionals, including psychologists and psychiatrists. Keep in mind, PPOs tend to have higher monthly rates than HMOs (health maintenance organizations), so an HMO may make more sense if you can get in-network services.
Methodology
Cost and membership experience data came from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) public use files. Other sources include the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), HealthCare.gov and insurance company websites.
About the Author
Former Senior Writer
Talon Abernathy is a former ValuePenguin Senior Writer who specialized in health insurance, Medicare and Medicaid. He also contributed to other insurance verticals including home, renters, auto, motorcycle and flood insurance.
Talon came to ValuePenguin in 2023. Since his arrival, he's helped to expand the site's health insurance-related content offerings. He enjoys helping readers understand the ins and outs of America's all too complicated health insurance landscape.
Before coming to ValuePenguin, Talon worked as a freelance writer. His prior work has touched on a broad range of personal finance-related topics including credit-building strategies, small business incorporation tactics and creative ways to save for retirement.
Insurance tip
In many parts of the country, you can qualify for a free Silver health insurance plan if you meet certain income requirements. Government subsidies in the form of premium tax credits and cost-sharing reductions may mean you'll pay nothing for coverage.
Expertise
- Health insurance
- Medicare and Medicaid
- Flood insurance
- Homeowners insurance
- Renters insurance
- Auto and motorcycle insurance
Referenced by
- The Miami Herald
- Money.com
- MSN
- Nasdaq
- The Sacramento Bee
- Yahoo! Finance
Education
- BA, University of Washington
- Certificate in Copyediting, UC San Diego
Credentials
- Licensed Life & Disability Insurance Agent
- Licensed Property & Casualty Insurance Agent
Editorial note: The content of this article is based on the author's opinions and recommendations alone. It has not been previewed, commissioned or otherwise endorsed by any of our network partners.
