The search for the right therapist becomes even more complicated when you're trying to figure out insurance coverage. We've helped countless people navigate their Cigna benefits, and we know how confusing it can be to determine whether Cigna covers therapy and how to find providers who accept your plan.

The good news is that Cigna does cover therapy and other mental health services, but understanding the details of your specific plan and finding the right therapist requires some guidance. 

Let us walk you through everything you need to know about using your Cigna insurance for therapy.

Does Cigna Cover Therapy? 

Yes, Cigna insurance covers therapy and other mental health services. 

Federal law requires insurance companies like Cigna to provide mental health coverage that's comparable to their medical and surgical benefits. This means your therapy sessions, psychiatric care, and substance use treatment should be covered similarly to how Cigna handles your physical health needs.

People are often surprised to learn the extent of mental health services included in their benefits. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or simply need support during a difficult time, your Cigna plan likely covers individual therapy sessions.

What therapy services does Cigna typically cover?

• Individual therapy with licensed counselors, psychologists, and clinical social workers
• Group therapy sessions for various conditions and support needs
• Family counseling
• Psychiatric evaluations and medication management
• Psychological testing and assessments
• Substance use disorder treatment (outpatient and inpatient)
• Telehealth therapy sessions
• Crisis intervention services

It is important to note that many insurance plans do not cover couple’s therapy. 

How Cigna Behavioral Health Coverage Works

Understanding how Cigna structures their mental health benefits helps you make informed decisions about your care. 

Cigna provides behavioral health services through different networks and programs, depending on your specific plan type and employer.

Most Cigna members access mental health services through the provider’s behavioral health network, which includes thousands of licensed mental health professionals across the country. 

Cigna Behavioral Health Network Features

The Cigna behavioral health network includes:

• Licensed therapists and counselors who specialize in various therapeutic approaches
• Psychiatric professionals for medication management and complex conditions
• Mental health facilities for intensive outpatient programs
• Substance use treatment centers for specialized addiction recovery
• Telehealth providers that offer convenient virtual sessions

Understanding Your Specific Cigna Plan's Therapy Coverage

Cigna offers several plan types, each affecting how you access and pay for therapy:

Cigna Open Access Plus (OAP) Plans

With these plans, you can see any therapist without needing referrals from a primary care physician.

Key features of therapy coverage:

• Direct access to mental health specialists without a referral
• Both in-network and out-of-network coverage
• No referral requirements
• Typically higher premiums but lower session costs

Cost structure:

• In-network copays: typically $20-60 per therapy session
• Out-of-network: Higher costs with partial reimbursement
• Deductibles may or may not apply to mental health services

Cigna HMO Plans

HMO plans require you to stay within Cigna's network but offer predictable costs:

Therapy coverage features:

• Must use in-network providers only for your insurance to cover care
• May need primary care referral (varies by plan)
• Lower premiums than PPO/OAP plans
• Fixed copayments for each session

Typical costs:

• Copays: typically $15-40 per therapy session
• No coverage for out-of-network therapy
• Often no deductible for mental health services

Cigna PPO Plans

PPO plans offer the most provider flexibility:

Mental health benefits include:

• Freedom to see any licensed therapist
• Higher reimbursement for in-network providers
• No referral requirements
• Coverage for out-of-network care

Cost considerations:

• In-network copays: typically $25-70 per session
• Out-of-network: typically 60-80% coverage after deductible
• Separate deductibles for in and out-of-network care

In-Network vs. Out-of-Network: Finding Therapists That Take Cigna

The network status of your therapist significantly impacts what you'll pay for therapy. Let’s talk about the differences between in-network vs. out-of-network, and what they mean for your cost of care. 

In-Network Cigna Therapists

When searching for "therapists that take Cigna," in-network providers offer several advantages:

Benefits of in-network therapy:

• Lower out-of-pocket costs
• Direct billing to Cigna (no claim forms)
• Pre-negotiated rates
• Only pay copay or coinsurance
• Provider credentials pre-verified by Cigna

Example costs: 

With a $30 copay, you pay $30 per session while Cigna covers the remaining negotiated rate.

Out-of-Network Therapy with Cigna

Choosing out-of-network expands your options but increases costs:

What to expect:

• You will pay the full therapist fee upfront and submit claims to your insurance company for partial reimbursement
• Cigna reimburses based on "allowed amounts"
• Higher out-of-pocket expenses
• More paperwork and administration

Example costs: 

For a $200 session, Cigna might deem $130 as the allowed amount. With 70% coverage, you'd receive $91 back, making your actual cost $109.

Understanding Deductibles and Out-of-Pocket Costs

Your therapy costs depend on several factors:

Key Insurance Terms for Therapy Coverage

Deductible: The amount you pay before Cigna begins to share healthcare costs with you

• Individual vs. family deductibles affect when coverage begins
• Some plans have separate behavioral health deductibles
• Preventive mental health services may bypass deductibles

Copayment: A fixed amount you pay per therapy session after meeting your deductible. 

• Typical range: $15-75 depending on your plan

Coinsurance: The percentage you pay after deductible.

• Common splits: 80/20 or 70/30 (Cigna/you)
• Applies to allowed amounts, not full charges
• Different rates for in-network vs. out-of-network

Out-of-Pocket Maximum: The annual cap on the amount you spend on healthcare. 

• Includes deductibles, copays, and coinsurance
• Once reached, Cigna covers 100% of covered services
• Separate limits for in-network and out-of-network

How to Verify If a Therapist Takes Cigna

Before scheduling your first appointment, it is important to confirm your coverage. Here are a few ways you can check your coverage: 

Step 1: Contact the Therapist Directly

Ask your potential therapist these specific questions:

• "Do you currently accept Cigna insurance?"
• "Are you in-network with my specific Cigna plan?"
• "What will my copay or coinsurance be?"
• "Do you handle insurance billing directly?"

Step 3: Verify with Cigna

Call member services to confirm:

• Your potential therapist’s network status
• Your specific benefits and coverage for therapy
• Any preauthorization requirements
• Any session limits or coverage restrictions

Maximizing Your Cigna Mental Health Benefits

Here are a few tips to get the most value from your coverage:

Use Preventive Benefits

Preventative benefits that can support your mental health include:

• Annual mental health screenings (often 100% covered)
• Depression assessments during wellness visits
• Substance use disorder evaluations
• No deductible for preventive services

Leverage Digital Resources

Many Cigna plans include:

• Telehealth therapy options
• Mental health apps
• Online self-help tools
• Virtual support groups

Consider Timing

If you need to reduce the cost of care, consider:

• Scheduling therapy after meeting your deductible
• Using your remaining benefits before year-end
• Planning around benefit resets
• Coordinating therapy with other healthcare needs

Financial Strategies

• Use HSA/FSA funds for therapy copays
• Ask about sliding scale options
• Consider group therapy (lower copays)
• Explore EAP benefits first

Common Challenges Finding Therapists That Take Cigna

Even with good coverage, you might face these common obstacles. Here are a few ways to reduce their impact: 

Provider Availability Issues

Challenge: Many in-network therapists have waitlists. 

Solutions:

• Expand your search radius
• Consider telehealth options
• Use MyWellbeing's free matching service to find a therapist who is accepting new clients

Outdated Provider Directories

Challenge: Listed therapists may no longer accept Cigna. 

Solutions:

• Always verify a provider’s current insurance acceptance before attending a session.
• Call providers directly.
• Check multiple sources to confirm a provider’s insurance status.

Prior Authorization Requirements

Challenge: Some services may require advance approval - or insurance won’t cover them. 

Solutions:

• Work with your therapist on authorization
• Understand which services require approval
• Appeal denials when appropriate

Using Out-of-Network Benefits Effectively

Working with an out-of-network therapist can expand your care options and give you a better chance of finding a provider who is the right fit for you. 

Here are a few things to keep in mind if you choose an out-of-network provider:

Understand Your Coverage

1. Call Cigna to confirm that your plan includes out-of-network benefits.
2. Ask about your deductible and reimbursement percentage.
3. Clarify the "allowed amount" for therapy sessions. If your therapist’s fee is higher, you are responsible for the difference. 
4. Understand and follow claim submission deadlines to ensure you are reimbursed for your care.

Get Proper Documentation

You will need documentation to submit a claim to your insurance company. Luckily, many out-of-network therapists provide it.

Request a "superbill" from your therapist that includes:

• Your provider's name and credentials
• Tax ID and NPI numbers
• Service dates and CPT codes
• Diagnosis codes (ICD-10)
• Session fees

Submit Claims Correctly

• Use myCigna.com for faster processing
• Keep copies of all documentation
• Submit within 365 days of service
• Follow up on pending claims

How MyWellbeing Helps You Find Therapists That Take Cigna

Searching for therapists who accept Cigna shouldn't consume your time and energy. We've streamlined the process of finding mental health providers who take your insurance.

Our matching service offers:

• Real availability: Our providers are accepting new clients.
• Personalized matching: Based on your needs beyond just insurance coverage.
• Ongoing support: We provide help finding alternative therapists if needed.

What makes us different:

• Current insurance information
• Matches based on therapy approach and personality fit
• Free matching service with no hidden costs

Instead of calling dozens of therapists or navigating confusing provider directories, let our team do the work. We understand Cigna's coverage complexities and can help you find affordable, quality care.

Take the Next Step in Your Mental Health Journey

Now that you know Cigna covers therapy and understand your benefits, it's time to find the right therapist. Your mental health deserves the same attention as your physical health, and your Cigna benefits make quality care accessible.

Ready to find therapists that take Cigna? Complete our free questionnaire in minutes. We'll match you with verified providers who accept your insurance and fit your specific needs.

Remember, asking "does Cigna cover therapy?" is just the first step. Finding the right therapist who accepts your insurance and meets your needs is where real healing begins. Let us help you make that connection.

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