Updated On: March 25, 2024
Navigating any mental health condition like depression can be overwhelming and exhausting. When seeking mental health care treatment, knowing if your insurance will cover the costs associated with therapy and other services can be a significant source of stress. Finding in person or online therapy that takes insurance can also be a stressful experience. Of course, the first step in mental health treatment is getting a diagnosis. However, fears about depression insurance coverage can be a barrier for even this initial part of the process.
Fortunately, The Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act — enacted in 2008 and since updated with additional provisions — mandates that mental health coverage must be equal to coverage provided for physical conditions. So yes, insurance covers depression.
Still, the answer to how much your insurance plan covers depression treatment depends on several factors, like the type of insurance plan you have and what the treatment is.
Continue reading to learn more about depression insurance coverage that can help you pay for both assessment and treatment, what coverage might be available under different plans, and if online therapy is an additional option.
In short, yes — most major insurance companies offer coverage for psychological assessments and screenings related to diagnosing depression. Accurate assessments are needed to determine the best course of treatment for each person’s needs.
Depression assessments or screenings typically include questions about symptoms and other relevant factors, like family history and lifestyle habits, that might contribute to someone developing a depressive disorder.
Therapy with our licensed providers is covered by many insurance plans for only a copay.
If you’ve recently been diagnosed with depression, you’re probably wondering does insurance cover depression treatment?
Most health insurers provide at least some coverage for treatments related to mental health conditions like depression. Check with your provider before beginning any treatment plan to understand what is covered under your specific policy terms and conditions.
Does insurance cover therapy for depression? It depends on factors like your insurance company, the amount of mental health coverage they offer, and the types of treatments included within the insurance policy.
Generally speaking, most insurance plans will cover some forms of therapy for depression. Types of psychotherapy known to be successful in treating depression include:
How much your health insurance plan helps with the cost of depression medication depends on your insurance provider, the type of medication prescribed, which pharmacy you go to, and if you get a generic or brand name form of the drug.
Many health insurance plans cover some or all of the costs associated with prescription medications for depression. If there’s still a cost after insurance, and you can’t afford it, you might be able to get help from drug discount cards, through government programs, or from a community clinic.
If you require more intensive treatment than outpatient visits and prescription drugs can provide, many insurers will now cover in-patient hospitalization for severe cases of depression.
In-patient programs typically involve 24/7 monitoring and support from medical professionals while you receive specialized care tailored to your needs. The length and cost associated with these programs vary and will depend on the severity of the symptoms. However, they generally range from several days to several weeks at an average cost between $500-$1,000 per day, depending on the location and services provided.
If you’re struggling with depression, seek help from a qualified professional. While traditional therapy sessions can be expensive, most are covered by insurance. Fortunately, Talkspace offers an affordable online depression treatment option often covered by many major insurance plans.
With Talkspace, therapy without insurance is possible and affordable. Talkspace online therapy is covered by most major insurers like Cigna, Anthem, Optum, Aetna, Aetna Student Health, and more.
We offer convenient access to mental health care via video chat or text messaging, plus personalized care aimed at helping you manage any mental health concerns you have. We accept most forms of payment, including private payer plans, FSA/HSA for therapy, credit cards, and more, making it easier than ever to access an affordable, quality mental health plan.
Anxiety & Depression Association of America. Accessed January 31, 2023.
Psychiatry.org - Mental Health Parity. Published July 26, 2022. Accessed February 3, 2023.
Tessa Armich is a Content Manager at Talkspace. She is passionate about providing mental health education and helping people learn more about therapy.