Cost is one of the biggest reasons people put off therapy. The good news is that many people already have coverage through their benefits and don't realize it. Here's how coverage usually works, and exactly what to ask your insurer.
Provincial health plans
Provincial health plans like OHIP generally don't cover sessions with a psychotherapist in private practice. Coverage for private therapy usually comes from extended health benefits instead.
Extended health benefits
Many workplace and private benefit plans cover sessions with a Registered Psychotherapist (RP). Coverage varies a lot from plan to plan. Some cover a few sessions a year, others cover much more. If you have a spouse or partner with their own plan, you may be able to combine coverage from both.
Some plans also include a health spending account, which can often be used for therapy too.
Questions to ask your insurer
Call the number on your benefits card, or check your online member portal, and ask:
- Is a Registered Psychotherapist (RP) covered under my plan?
- What is my annual maximum for psychotherapy or mental health services?
- Is there a per-session limit or a percentage I pay myself?
- Do I need a doctor's referral for coverage?
- Is the mental health maximum shared with other practitioners, like psychologists or social workers?
- Do I have a health spending account?
Your plan must specifically cover a Registered Psychotherapist (RP). If you're not sure, contact your insurance company to confirm before your first session.
How payment works at Aceso Therapy
You pay after each session by credit card or e-Transfer, and you receive a receipt by email to submit to your insurer. Direct billing is available for some insurers, so you may not have to submit anything yourself.
Insurers I work with include Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield, Blue Cross, Equitable Life, TELUS Health, Homewood Health and Veterans Affairs Canada.
Not sure what your plan covers?
The best way to know for sure is to contact your insurance company directly. Ask whether your plan covers a Registered Psychotherapist (RP) and how much coverage you have. Once you know, you can book a free 15-minute consultation to get started.