Quick Answer
Yes. Medicare covers mental health services under both Part A and Part B. Part B covers outpatient therapy, psychiatric evaluations, depression screenings, and substance use disorder treatment. Part A covers inpatient psychiatric hospital stays. Telehealth mental health visits from home are permanently covered with no geographic restrictions. You pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount after the Part B deductible for outpatient services.
Coverage Comparison by Plan Type
| Plan Type | Coverage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Original Medicare (Part A & B) | Covered | Part B covers outpatient therapy and psychiatric care; Part A covers inpatient psychiatric stays |
| Medicare Advantage (Part C) | Covered | Must cover all Medicare mental health benefits; many plans offer additional behavioral health services |
| Medicare Supplement (Medigap) | Helps with Cost-Sharing | Covers Part B 20% coinsurance and Part A inpatient cost-sharing for mental health services |
| Medicare Part D | May Cover Related Rx | Covers psychiatric medications such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers |
Understanding Your Coverage Options
Original Medicare (Part a & B)
Medicare Part B covers outpatient mental health services, including individual and group psychotherapy, psychiatric evaluations, depression screenings, alcohol misuse counseling, and substance use disorder treatment. After meeting the Part B deductible ($283 in 2026), you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for these services.
Medicare Part A covers inpatient psychiatric hospital stays, up to 190 days in a lifetime in a freestanding psychiatric facility. Telehealth mental health visits from home are permanently covered under Medicare with no geographic restrictions, making it easier to access care from anywhere in the U.S.
Medicare Advantage (Part C)
Medicare Advantage plans are required to cover all Medicare mental health benefits and often provide additional behavioral health services. Many plans offer $0 or low-cost telehealth therapy visits, expanded substance use disorder programs, and care coordination for mental health conditions. Check your plan's Evidence of Coverage for details.
Medicare Supplement (Medigap)
A Medigap plan such as Plan G covers the Part B 20% coinsurance for outpatient mental health visits and the Part A inpatient cost-sharing for psychiatric stays. This can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs if you require ongoing therapy or an inpatient admission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Medicare Cover Therapy and Counseling?
Yes. Medicare Part B covers individual and group psychotherapy, psychiatric evaluations, and counseling when provided by a licensed mental health professional who accepts Medicare.
Does Medicare Cover Telehealth Mental Health Visits?
Yes, and this coverage is permanent. You can receive Medicare-covered mental health telehealth visits from your home with no geographic restrictions, including audio-only visits when video is not available.
Does Medicare Cover Inpatient Psychiatric Care?
Yes. Medicare Part A covers inpatient stays in a psychiatric hospital, up to a lifetime limit of 190 days in a freestanding psychiatric facility. General hospital psychiatric units have no lifetime day limit.
Does Medicare Cover Substance Use Disorder Treatment?
Yes. Medicare Part B covers opioid treatment programs, alcohol misuse counseling, and other substance use disorder services. Part D covers related medications such as buprenorphine.
David Haass
CTO & Co-FounderDavid Haass is the Chief Technology Officer and Co-Founder of Elite Insurance Partners and MedicareFAQ.com. He is a member and regular contributor to Forbes Finance Council.
Ashlee Zareczny
ReviewerAshlee Zareczny is a licensed Medicare agent in all 50 states dedicated to educating those eligible for Medicare. She trains agents on CMS compliance guidelines.