Medicare Coverage for Marriage and Family Counseling

Marriage and family counseling can be helpful, but does Medicare cover this service? While these services are beneficial, Medicare will only cover under specific circumstances. For example, the service needs to be part of the treatment for mental illness. We’re going to help by you understand coverage by answering some of the most frequently asked questions about marriage and family counseling from others on Medicare.

But, Part B will cover counseling and other psychotherapy services that treat a mental illness issue. So, coverage requires counseling to be part of the patient’s mental health treatment. Meaning, the patient must have a mental health condition, such as depression or anxiety.

For Medicare Part B to cover the counseling, you must see a professional that accepts Medicare. Going to a doctor that doesn’t accept Medicare will mean you pay the full cost of care. Outpatient mental health services medicare covers include family therapy to help you through treatment.

If you get treatment from any of the following professionals, you have coverage:

• Clinical psychologist
• Psychiatrist or doctor
• Clinical social worker
• Clinical nurse specialist
• Nurse practitioner
• Physician Assistant

Also, the facility where the service takes place must accept Medicare assignment. Otherwise, there is no coverage for the service and you pay the full price of care.

Counseling is available in any of the following settings:

• The professional’s office
• The outpatient department of a hospital
• A community mental health center
• Virtually, as telehealth counseling

The cost of family therapy, without Medicare, usually ranges between $75-$150 an hour. And, most therapists suggest one hour sessions each week for three months. Although, it really depends on your specific needs and care plan.

FAQs

How to Get Help Paying for Marriage and Family Counseling with Medicare

If you have Medicare and want help paying for your counseling services, we’re here to help you find the right policy. A Medigap policy will allow you to pay little to no costs outside your premium. Medigap coverage can help you afford the cost of counseling, doctor visits, and more.

Give us a call at the number above. We’ll connect you with an agent that can help you find the best policy in your area. Our agents go over everything you need to know about Medicare and ensure the policy you select is a perfect match. Also, if you prefer to do the research yourself, you can discover rates online today.