How Health Insurance Works for College Students Seeking Therapy

Navigating insurance as a college student can be confusing, but understanding the basics can help you access affordable mental health care.

How Does Paying for Therapy Work?

• Health Insurance Basics: Insurance plans help cover the cost of mental health services like therapy and psychiatry. What you pay depends on your specific plan.
• In-Network vs. Out-of-Network: In-network providers have agreements with your insurance, which typically makes sessions more affordable. Out-of-network providers may cost more.

On ThrivingCampus, use the 'Insurances' filter to easily find in-network therapists covered by your plan.

Key Terms:

• Deductible: What you pay out-of-pocket before insurance starts covering costs.
• Copay: A fixed fee for each visit.
• Coinsurance: A percentage of the service cost you pay after meeting your deductible.
• Sliding Scale: Some therapists adjust fees based on financial need—helpful for college students on a budget.

You can filter for therapists on ThrivingCampus who offer sliding scale fees under the “More” filter options.

Understanding these terms will help you plan for therapy costs.