Maximizing Your Employee Benefits for Virtual Therapy Sessions

Understanding Your Health Insurance Coverage

The first step in maximizing your employee benefits for virtual therapy is to understand your health insurance coverage. Here are some key points to consider:

• Review Your Health Plan: Start by reviewing your health insurance policy to understand what mental health services are covered. Look for specific information on coverage for virtual therapy sessions.
• Check for Telehealth Coverage: Many insurance plans now include coverage for telehealth services, including virtual therapy. Ensure your plan covers online therapy sessions and understand any limitations or requirements.
• Determine Your Benefits: Identify the benefits available under your plan, such as the number of covered sessions per year, co-payments, deductibles, and any pre-authorization requirements.
• In-Network vs. Out-of-Network Providers: Determine if your insurance plan covers in-network providers only or if it also includes out-of-network therapists. In-network providers usually offer lower out-of-pocket costs.

Utilizing Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)

Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) are employer-sponsored programs designed to help employees manage personal and work-related issues, including mental health concerns. EAPs often provide short-term counseling services at no cost to the employee. Here’s how to utilize your EAP for virtual therapy:

• Check Your EAP Benefits: Review the benefits offered by your EAP, including the number of counseling sessions available and whether they cover virtual therapy.
• Contact Your EAP: Reach out to your EAP provider to inquire about virtual therapy options and get a list of approved therapists.
• Confidentiality Assurance: EAP services are confidential, so you can seek help without concerns about privacy or repercussions at work.
• Transition to Long-Term Care: If you need long-term therapy beyond what the EAP offers, the EAP can assist in transitioning you to a covered mental health provider under your insurance plan.

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are tax-advantaged accounts that allow you to set aside money for medical expenses, including mental health care. Here’s how to use these accounts for virtual therapy:

• Set Aside Funds: Allocate a portion of your pre-tax income to your FSA or HSA to cover therapy costs. This reduces your taxable income and provides funds specifically for health care expenses.
• Eligible Expenses: Virtual therapy sessions are generally considered eligible medical expenses. Check with your FSA or HSA provider to confirm.
• Submit Claims: Keep receipts and documentation of your therapy sessions and submit claims for reimbursement through your FSA or HSA.
• Plan Contributions: Maximize your contributions to these accounts if you anticipate regular therapy sessions, ensuring you have sufficient funds available.

Accessing Additional Resources

Beyond your health insurance and EAP, there are additional resources available to help you maximize your benefits for virtual therapy:

• Online Therapy Platforms: Many online therapy platforms accept insurance and offer competitive rates for self-pay clients. Research platforms like BetterHelp, Talkspace, and CEREVITY to find options that suit your needs.
• Community Resources: Non-profit organizations and community health centers often provide low-cost or sliding scale mental health services. Look for local resources that offer virtual therapy options.
• Workshops and Support Groups: Some employers and community organizations offer workshops and support groups focused on mental health. These can complement individual therapy and provide additional support.
• Advocate for Benefits: If your current benefits do not cover virtual therapy, consider advocating for enhanced mental health coverage through your employer’s human resources department.

Maximizing Your Virtual Therapy Sessions

To make the most of your virtual therapy sessions, consider the following tips:

• Prepare for Sessions: Set goals and prepare topics to discuss with your therapist. Being organized can help you make the most of each session.
• Create a Private Space: Ensure you have a quiet, private space for your therapy sessions to maintain confidentiality and focus.
• Maintain Consistency: Schedule regular sessions and stay committed to your therapy plan. Consistency is key to making progress.
• Communicate Openly: Be open and honest with your therapist about your needs, goals, and any challenges you face. Effective communication is crucial for successful therapy.
• Utilize Homework: If your therapist assigns homework or exercises between sessions, complete them to reinforce what you’ve discussed in therapy.

How CEREVITY Supports Virtual Therapy Through Employee Benefits

At CEREVITY, we are committed to helping you maximize your employee benefits for virtual therapy. Here’s how we support our clients:

• Insurance Verification: Our team can help verify your insurance coverage and explain your benefits for virtual therapy sessions.
• Flexible Payment Options: We offer various payment options, including accepting FSAs and HSAs, to make therapy affordable.
• Resource Guidance: We provide guidance on accessing EAP benefits, community resources, and other financial assistance programs.
• Personalized Care: Our therapists work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs and goals.

For more information or to get started with virtual therapy, visit our Get Started page or contact our support team.

Sources

• MentalHealth.gov – Health Insurance and Mental Health Services
• Psychology Today – Find a Therapist Who Accepts Your Insurance
• American Psychological Association – Telepsychology
• SHRM – Maximizing Mental Health Benefits