Taking the first step to obtain mental health treatment can be life-changing. Professional help through therapy and counseling—as well as medication and alternative therapies if needed—can provide the support and tools needed for recovery and improved well-being.
But despite the many potential benefits of mental health treatment, many people hesitate due to concerns about cost. Admittedly, with single therapy sessions averaging $100 to $200, mental health treatment isn’t cheap. 1 However, financial considerations need not be a barrier to care. That’s because mental health treatment is covered (partially or in full) under most insurance plans. But even for the uninsured or underinsured, numerous payment options are available to make treatment more accessible.
At Apex Recovery, we understand that financial concerns shouldn’t prevent anyone from receiving necessary mental health care. We’re proud to maintain partnerships with most major and local insurance providers, and we offer diverse payment options to ensure treatment is accessibility even if you don’t have insurance. Our commitment to mental health care means we work with each individual to find the most suitable payment solution for their unique circumstances.
If you’re ready to learn more about mental health treatment through Apex Recovery, reach out to us now at (877) 798-4382.
Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Cyclothymia, Seasonal Affective Disorder
Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety, Specific Phobias
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Acute Stress Disorder, Adjustment Disorders
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Hoarding Disorder, Body Dysmorphic Disorder
Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, Delusional Disorder, Brief Psychotic Disorder
Intermittent Explosive Disorder, Kleptomania, Pyromania
Borderline (BPD), Antisocial, Narcissistic, Avoidant, Dependent Personality Disorder
Dual Diagnosis, Substance-Induced Mood Disorders, Alcohol-Related Mental Health Issues
What is a Mental Health Therapy Program?
A mental health therapy program represents a comprehensive approach to mental health treatment that’s carefully designed to address various psychological, emotional, and behavioral challenges. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), these structured programs incorporate evidence-based treatments that help individuals understand their conditions, develop effective coping strategies, and work toward recovery.2
Professional mental health therapy programs typically encompass multiple therapeutic approaches, including individual psychotherapy sessions where clients work one-on-one with trained therapists to address personal challenges and develop individualized coping strategies. Meanwhile, group therapy sessions provide opportunities for shared experiences and mutual support, while family counseling helps strengthen support systems and improve communication within families.
Many programs also incorporate medication management when appropriate, working with psychiatrists or other qualified medical professionals to ensure proper medication oversight. Skills development workshops focus on building practical tools for managing daily challenges, while support groups offer additional community-based assistance.
The effectiveness of mental health therapy programs is well-documented. Through regular engagement with mental health professionals, individuals can gain deeper insights into their conditions, learn to manage symptoms effectively, and develop the resilience needed for long-term wellness. These programs create safe, supportive environments where people can work through their challenges while receiving professional guidance and emotional support.
At Apex Recovery in Tennessee, we begin each person’s journey with a comprehensive, free mental health assessment. This initial evaluation serves as the foundation for developing a personalized treatment plan, ensuring that each individual receives care tailored to their specific needs and circumstances.
How to Pay for Mental Health Therapy
The financial aspects of mental health treatment can seem daunting, but understanding the various payment options can help make therapy more accessible and manageable.
Primary ways to pay for mental health therapy include:
- Insurance coverage (private insurance, Medicare, Medicaid)
- Private pay arrangements
- Therapy payment plans and sliding scale fees
- Grants and scholarships
- Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)
- State and federal assistance programs
- Non-profit organization support
- Alternative options such as CareCredit, loans, etc.
Check Your Insurance Coverage
Does Health Insurance Pay for Mental Health Therapy?
Yes, health insurance typically covers mental health therapy services, thanks to significant legislative changes in recent years. For example, the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act requires most insurance plans to provide coverage for mental health and substance use disorders that is comparable to their coverage for medical and surgical care.3
However, the level of coverage provided depends on various factors that can significantly impact out-of-pocket costs. Insurance plans may have different requirements for:
- Coverage Limitations: Some plans may limit the number of therapy sessions covered per year or require regular reviews to continue coverage for long-term treatment.
- Provider Networks: Insurance plans typically offer better coverage when you see in-network providers. Out-of-network providers may result in higher out-of-pocket costs or may not be covered at all under the plan.
- Prior Authorization: Many insurance plans require prior authorization for certain types of mental health services, especially intensive outpatient or residential treatment programs.
- Cost-Sharing Requirements: Your plan’s deductible, copayments, and coinsurance will affect your out-of-pocket expenses for mental health treatment.
Given the variables between plans, it’s important to verify your insurance benefits before entering care. If you’re new to treatment, this process can be a bit daunting. However, providers like Apex Recovery will do the legwork for you.
Simply contact our treatment advisors or fill out our online form. We’ll contact your insurance company to verify your benefits and provide you with a detailed explanation of what’s covered and roughly how much you’ll pay for care.
Private Insurance for Mental Health Therapy
Private health insurance, whether obtained through an employer, purchased directly from an insurance company, or acquired through the Health Insurance Marketplace, represents one of the most common ways to pay for mental health therapy. Under the Affordable Care Act, mental health services are considered essential health benefits that must be covered by all marketplace plans and most private insurance plans.3
At Apex Recovery, we maintain in-network relationships with numerous major insurance providers, including Aetna, Cigna, Tricare, and UnitedHealthcare—just to name a few. This network participation helps reduce out-of-pocket costs for our clients and streamlines the insurance verification and billing processes.
Working with in-network providers like Apex Recovery often results in lower costs compared to out-of-network providers. Additionally, in-network providers handle much of the insurance paperwork, making the process smoother for clients focusing on their recovery.
Medicaid for Mental Health Therapy
Medicaid serves as a crucial source of mental health coverage for millions of Americans. As a joint federal and state program, Medicaid provides health coverage to eligible low-income adults, children, pregnant women, elderly adults, and people with disabilities.
While individual plans and out-of-pocket expenses vary, Medicaid coverage for mental health therapy typically includes:
- Individual and group therapy sessions
- Psychiatric evaluations
- Medication management
- Crisis intervention services
- Case management
- Rehabilitation services
To locate Medicaid-accepting therapy programs, you have several options:
- Contact your state Medicaid office directly.
- Call the number on the back of your Medicaid card to speak directly with a representative.
- Use the treatment locator tool from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
- Consult your primary care provider for referrals.
Medicare for Mental Health Therapy
Medicare provides comprehensive mental health coverage through its various parts. The program covers numerous mental health services, including both inpatient and outpatient care. But again, coverage varies by plan and is governed by program stipulations.
- Medicare Part A covers inpatient mental health care received in hospitals and mental health facilities.
- Part B covers outpatient mental health services, including individual and group therapy, psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and certain screening tests.
- Medicare Part D provides coverage for prescription medications that may be prescribed as part of mental health treatment.
- Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) must provide at least the same coverage as Original Medicare (Parts A and B) but may offer additional benefits.
To qualify for Medicare, individuals must be:
- 65 years or older
- Under 65 with certain disabilities
- Any age with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
COBRA for Mental Health Therapy
The Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) provides a vital safety net for individuals who lose their employer-sponsored health insurance due to job loss, reduction in hours, or other qualifying events. COBRA coverage includes mental health benefits if these were part of the original employer-sponsored plan.
COBRA allows eligible individuals to maintain their existing health insurance coverage, including mental health benefits, for up to 18 months after leaving their jobs. While this continuation coverage helps prevent gaps in mental health care, it’s important to note that COBRA participants typically must pay the full premium amount plus a small administrative fee, making it more expensive than employer-sponsored coverage.
Mental Health Therapy Programs in Tennessee
Apex Recovery proudly offers comprehensive primary mental health treatment services near Nashville, providing evidence-based therapy programs for Tennessee residents struggling with mental health disorders. Conditions we treat include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, trauma/PTSD, schizophrenia, OCD, and more.
Our therapeutic approaches include cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, trauma-informed care, and other evidence-based practices. We understand that mental health challenges can manifest differently for each person, which is why we emphasize individualized treatment planning and personalized care.
Additionally, Apex Recovery specializes in dual diagnosis treatment, addressing both mental health disorders and substance use disorders simultaneously. This integrated approach is crucial and considered the best practice for long-term recovery.
If you or someone you love is struggling with mental health concerns, reach out to our treatment advisors for a free and confidential discussion. We’ll answer your questions, discuss treatment options, explore payment solutions, and help you determine the most appropriate level of care for your situation.
Free Mental Health Assessment
Schedule a free, confidential assessment with a licensed clinician. Apex Recovery can check your insurance coverage levels for mental health treatment.
Which Insurance Providers Pay for Mental Health Therapy in Tennessee?
Tennessee residents have access to numerous insurance providers that offer mental health coverage. Major insurance carriers operating in Tennessee include BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, Cigna, Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, and more. Apex Recovery maintains in-network relationships with these and other major insurance providers, helping to maximize coverage and minimize out-of-pocket expenses for our clients.
These insurance providers typically cover a comprehensive range of mental health services, including:
- Individual therapy sessions
- Group therapy
- Family counseling
- Psychiatric evaluations
- Medication management
- Intensive outpatient programs
- Partial hospitalization programs
The specific level of coverage depends on various factors, including:
- Your particular insurance plan
- The type of treatment needed
- Whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network provider
- Your plan’s deductible and copayment requirements
- Any prior authorization requirements
The best way to know for sure what’s covered and how much you’ll pay is to verify your insurance benefits.
How to Pay for Mental Health Therapy Without Insurance
Finding affordable treatment for mental health without insurance can feel overwhelming, but numerous options exist to make treatment more accessible. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control, almost 8% of Americans lack health insurance.4 However, various resources and programs are available to help uninsured individuals access mental health care.
While navigating mental health care without insurance requires more research and planning, many facilities and providers offer alternative payment solutions. They can offset costs particularly for those looking for mental health care without insurance.
Although options vary by mental health therapy center and eligibility criteria, they can be used independently or combined to create a manageable payment strategy. Additionally, these methods can supplement insurance coverage when benefits are limited or deductibles are high. Simply put, mental health therapy for people without insurance is available and attainable.
Grants & Scholarships for Mental Health Therapy
Grants and scholarships for mental health treatment provide financial assistance that doesn’t require repayment. Various organizations, foundations, and sometimes treatment facilities themselves offer these funding opportunities to make mental health care more accessible.
Treatment facilities that receive federal or state funding may offer grant-based programs for individuals who meet specific criteria, such as:
- Income requirements
- Diagnosis type
- Geographic location
- Special populations (veterans, domestic violence survivors, etc.)
Additionally, some nonprofit organizations and private foundations provide scholarships specifically for mental health treatment. These opportunities might cover partial or full treatment costs, though they often require an application process and may have specific eligibility criteria.
Private Pay for Mental Health Therapy
Private pay arrangements involve paying for mental health services directly without going through insurance.
Private pay advantages include:
- Greater privacy and confidentiality
- No insurance-imposed session limits
- More freedom in choosing providers
- Potential fee negotiations
- Sometimes lower overall costs than insurance deductibles
Many individuals use personal savings, assistance from family members, or health savings accounts (HSAs) to fund their treatment. Additionally, some facilities offer discounted rates for private pay clients, recognizing the financial burden of paying out-of-pocket.
Payment Plans for Mental Health Therapy
Monthly payment plans are a common and practical solution, allowing clients to spread the cost of treatment over time in a way that fits their budget. Treatment centers can work with clients to establish agreed-upon monthly payments that make therapy costs more manageable.
This approach allows individuals to focus on their recovery and mental well-being rather than being deterred by upfront costs. The specific terms and payment amounts can typically be customized based on individual circumstances and the type of treatment program selected.
Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) for Mental Health Therapy
Employee Assistance Programs provide free or low-cost services (including mental health services) to employees, regardless of their insurance status. EAPs typically offer short-term counseling and referral services to address various mental health concerns.
EAPs typically provide:
- Initial assessment and counseling sessions
- Crisis intervention services
- Referrals to long-term treatment providers
- Work-life resources and support
- Confidential assistance
Many employees don’t realize their companies offer EAPs or underutilize these valuable resources. These programs can serve as an excellent starting point for mental health care or provide support during insurance coverage gaps.
Free Mental Health Assessment and Screening
How to Find Mental Health Therapy Near Me in Tennessee
Finding appropriate mental health therapy centers in Tennessee involves understanding the various resources and options available in your area. SAMHSA maintains a comprehensive treatment locator tool that helps individuals find mental health providers based on location, treatment type, and payment options. This tool can help you identify providers who offer services aligned with your specific needs and circumstances.
Professional directories like the one offered by Psychology Today provide detailed listings of mental health providers throughout Tennessee, including information about their specialties, treatment approaches, and accepted payment methods. These directories often include reviews, photos, and detailed descriptions of each provider’s practice, making it easier to find a therapist who matches your preferences and requirements.
Local community mental health centers serve as another vital resource for accessing care. These centers often provide services on a sliding scale basis and may offer additional support services beyond traditional therapy. Many community centers maintain connections with other local resources and can help coordinate comprehensive care.
Primary care physicians can also serve as excellent resources for mental health referrals. They often maintain networks of trusted mental health professionals and can provide recommendations based on their understanding of your specific needs and circumstances.
At Apex Recovery, we understand that finding the right mental health provider is a crucial step in the recovery journey. Our admissions team is available to discuss our mental health therapy programs near Nashville and help determine if our services align with your needs. We offer comprehensive mental health assessments and can work with you to develop a treatment plan that addresses your specific challenges while considering your financial circumstances.
To learn more about Apex Recovery’s mental health therapy programs in Tennessee, please call our admissions team at (877) 798-4382.
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Sources
- Psychology Today. (n.d.). Therapy Center.
- National Alliance on Mental Illness. (n.d.). Psychotherapy.
- gov. (n.d.). Health benefits and coverage.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). S. Uninsured Rate Hits Record Low in First Quarter of 2023.