Are Therapy Sessions Covered by Health Insurance?
✅ Yes, but with limitations. Most insurers cover therapy sessions under OPD (Outpatient Department) benefits, but coverage varies by policy.
Key Factors Affecting Therapy Coverage:
✔ Type of Policy (Comprehensive vs Basic)
✔ OPD Inclusion (Not all plans cover OPD)
✔ Session Limits (10-30 per year typically)
✔ Therapist Qualifications (Must be licensed)
How Much Therapy Coverage Do Insurers Provide?
| Insurer | Therapy Coverage | Session Limit | Claim Process |
|---|---|---|---|
| ICICI Lombard | ₹500-1,500/session | 20/year | Reimbursement |
| HDFC Ergo | Up to ₹1,000/session | 15/year | Cashless (network clinics) |
| Max Bupa | ₹750-2,000/session | 30/year | Online submission |
| Star Health | ₹500/session | 10/year | Offline claims |
| Aditya Birla | No OPD therapy | ❌ None | N/A |
5 Ways to Get Therapy Coverage
1. Choose OPD-Inclusive Plans
- Look for terms like “Mental Health OPD” or “Counseling Coverage”
2. Add a Mental Health Rider
- Some insurers offer therapy-specific add-ons
3. Use Corporate Insurance
- Many employer plans include EAP (Employee Assistance Programs)
4. Opt for Digital Therapy Apps
- Certain insurers partner with BetterHelp, Wysa, or Amaha
5. Claim Under Preventive Care
- Some policies cover therapy as “wellness counseling”
What Types of Therapy Are Covered?
✔ Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
✔ Psychiatric Consultations
✔ Marriage Counseling (in some plans)
✔ Child Psychology Sessions
✔ Trauma Therapy
❌ Usually Excluded:
- Life coaching
- Unlicensed practitioners
- Experimental therapies
How to Claim Therapy Session Reimbursement?
- Check Policy Documents – Verify OPD therapy coverage
- Get a Prescription – From a psychiatrist/registered psychologist
- Submit Bills & Receipts – With therapist credentials
- File Claim Online/Offline – Via insurer’s portal or branch
💡 Pro Tip: Pre-authorize sessions if required by your insurer.
FAQs About Therapy Coverage
1. Does insurance cover online therapy?
✅ Yes, if the platform is licensed and recognized by IRDAI.
2. Are psychotherapist sessions covered?
✅ Yes, if the therapist is RCI-licensed (Rehabilitation Council of India).
3. Can I claim couples therapy?
Depends on the insurer – Some cover it under “family counseling.”
4. Is there a waiting period for therapy coverage?
❌ No waiting period (unless for pre-existing mental health conditions).
5. How much can I claim per year?
Typically ₹5,000-₹30,000, based on your policy.
Best Insurance Plans for Therapy Coverage
1. Max Bupa Reassure
- 30 sessions/year (₹2,000/session cap)
- Covers psychiatrists & clinical psychologists
2. ICICI Lombard Complete Health
- 20 sessions/year (₹1,500/session)
- Includes online therapy apps
3. HDFC Ergo MyHealth Women
- 15 sessions/year + maternity counseling
- Cashless at network clinics