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Mental Health Coverage in California

All Covered California plans must cover mental health and substance use treatment at the same level as medical care. Learn about your coverage options for therapy, counseling, and psychiatric services.

What's Covered

  • Outpatient therapy: Individual, group, and family counseling
  • Psychiatric services: Evaluation, medication management
  • Inpatient treatment: Hospital-based mental health care
  • Substance use treatment: Detox, rehab, counseling
  • Telehealth: Virtual therapy and psychiatry visits
  • Prescription drugs: Antidepressants, anxiety medications

Mental Health Costs by Plan

Plan Tier Therapy Visit Psychiatry Visit
Bronze $40-60 (after deductible) $50-75 (after deductible)
Silver $30-45 $40-60
Gold $25-35 $35-50
Platinum $15-25 $25-40

Telehealth Mental Health

All carriers offer telehealth mental health services, making it easier to access care:

  • Same copays as in-person visits for most plans
  • Access to therapists and psychiatrists from home
  • Evening and weekend availability often better
  • Particularly helpful for rural areas

Mental Health Parity Law

California law requires mental health coverage to be equal to medical coverage:

  • No separate, higher deductibles for mental health
  • No visit limits that don't apply to medical care
  • Same copays as comparable medical services

Need Help Finding a Therapist?

Our agents can help you find plans with strong mental health networks in your area.

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