Moberly, Mo. – September 16, 2026 -- Patients starting therapy are being urged to check their insurance benefits before booking a first appointment, according to a new article from HelloNation featuring Vicky Martin, MS, MA, LPC, of Oak Hills Behavioral Health Solutions in Moberly, Missouri.
The article notes that plans which look similar on paper can differ sharply in deductibles, co-pays, referral requirements, and limits on behavioral health visits. Those gaps often surface only after treatment has already begun, leading to unexpected bills.
A mental health co-pay is only part of the cost equation
A co-pay is the amount owed per session after insurance pays its share, but the article explains some plans instead use coinsurance -- a percentage of the total session cost -- or require a separate therapy deductible to be met first. These structures can change out-of-pocket totals significantly over the course of treatment.
Insurance companies, not counseling offices, decide coverage
While therapy practices may verify benefits as a courtesy, the article stresses that only the insurance provider can confirm actual coverage and patient responsibility. Martin says patients who review their benefits early are generally better prepared for billing questions later.
In-network status can lower costs substantially
The article advises patients to confirm whether a prospective therapist is in-network before scheduling. Out-of-network counseling can mean higher upfront costs or the burden of filing claims independently for possible reimbursement.
Deductibles and visit limits can catch patients off guard
Some plans apply an annual deductible to therapy, while others carve out behavioral health as its own category. The article also flags visit limits and prior-authorization rules some insurers impose, along with possible referral requirements from a primary care physician.
Telehealth sessions may be billed differently than in-person visits
According to the article, some insurers apply different rates or restrictions to virtual therapy appointments. Patients are encouraged to verify telehealth coverage specifically, rather than assuming it mirrors in-person benefits.
Documentation can prevent billing disputes
Because claims processing varies by diagnosis code, provider credentials, and treatment type, the article recommends patients record the names of insurance representatives and reference numbers from every call, in case disputes arise later.